Full steam ahead for Richmond Hospital expansion
People in Richmond deserve high quality health care that meets the needs of fast-growing communities. Now, we’re one step closer to seeing the massive expansion of Richmond Hospital come to fruition. This week, we announced more details about this project, including a new nine-floor patient tower and 113 new beds.
Our government is continuing to invest in health care all over the province, including right here in Burnaby. Just two weeks ago, the Burnaby Hospital redevelopment reached its own major milestone. And the list goes on: new St. Paul’s Hospital, new Surrey hospital, and Royal Columbian Hospital redevelopment are only a few ongoing investments made as a result of our commitment to health care for all British Columbians.
For more information on the Richmond Hospital, as well as our other health care investments, please visit https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2021HLTH0126-001359
 

80% Vaccination rate, drop-in clinics open
On Tuesday, our province reached an important milestone: 80% of all eligible adults in B.C. have now received their first dose, and 49% have received their second dose. This is very encouraging news in the fight against COVID-19. If anyone you know still hasn’t received their first dose, everyone aged 12+ (including those without Personal Health Numbers and non-B.C. residents) can now visit a drop-in clinic to get vaccinated! No booking or appointments required! Let’s continue to help our loved ones get the protection they need.
For more information, please visit: http://www.bccdc.ca/health-info/diseases-conditions/covid-19/covid-19-vaccine/covid-19-vaccination-at-a-glance
 

Improving ambulance response times, supporting emergency workers

When we call for help, we need to know that it will come. That’s why our government is strengthening B.C.’s ambulance system to make sure it’s faster and more responsive to British Columbians, and to give paramedics and dispatchers the resources they need to continue their crucial work.
We’re increasing investment into the BC Emergency Health Services to deliver more effective service for those who depend on it. By taking these steps, we provide better support to workers, improve services, and ensure everyone in B.C. gets the care and service they need.
For more information, please visit https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2021HLTH0129-001370
 

New training opportunities for people to help seniors

I’m thrilled to share some of the work I’ve been doing in my capacity as Minister of Advanced Education and Skills Training. This week, we launched our new Home and Independent Living program. In this free training program, students learn to become home-health companions or hospitality workers for seniors. They will also receive occupational health and safety training to gain credits, and graduates of the program will get paid work placements and get connected with potential employers.
Seniors and elders deserve the highest quality of care, and I’m so proud to support programs like this. This is a major step in supporting seniors’ care, and I encourage everyone seeking a new and rewarding career to consider this opportunity.
For more information, please visit https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2021AEST0047-001362

Expanding low- and no- cost community counselling and virtual services  

Everyone should be able to access mental health supports at zero or low cost. That’s why our government is expanding funding for community-based counselling programs, including virtual sessions, for everyone in British Columbia—including underserved populations in rural, remote and Indigenous communities.
If you or a loved one is struggling, please know that help is available. Free and low-cost mental health supports can be found here: http://www.gov.bc.ca/covid19mentalhealthsupports
For more information, please visit https://news.gov.bc.ca/releases/2021MMHA0033-001365

The Province will match Red Cross donations to help people affected by wildfires
This year’s wildfire season has already been devastating for many British Columbians. To help people affected by this difficult time, our provincial government and the federal government is matching all donations to the Canadian Red Cross. This means that every $1 donated will become $3. Please consider donating today: https://donate.redcross.ca/page/85877/donate/1
With the weather expected to stay dry and hot for the foreseeable future. For resources on wildfire prevention, please visit: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/wildfire-status/prevention