By Thomas I. Likness
EBC Edmonton Bureau

EDMONTON (Eagle News) — Seniors, youth and other vulnerable groups will receive the latest round of help announced by the Canadian government.

At his daily briefing on the COVID-19 Pandemic on Sunday, Prime Minister Trudeau promised $9 million to help seniors who have difficulty meeting their needs.

“Maybe they’re having trouble getting out to go to get groceries, maybe they’re feeling particularly alone, maybe they’ve already been isolated and this is just an extra degree of stress on them,” said Trudeau.

The money will go to the United Way for things like health check-ins to grocery delivery.

At the other end of the age spectrum, the prime minister promised $7.5 million for the Kids Help Phone to hire more counselors and trained volunteers for the 24-hour hotline.

In remarks aimed directly to young people, Trudeau said, “You’re watching the world you know change radically.”

“It’s a source of anxiety, a source of tension, maybe there’s extra tension in your family,” he said. “There are people who can help, reach out to Kids Help Phone.”

Trudeau also used his briefing to appeal to Canadians to help charities.

“If you are fortunate enough to have a little extra to spare right now, I’m asking you to join in and be part of the solution,” he said. “Please donate to your favorite organization or find out how you can volunteer in your community.”

Charities across the country have seen their donations dry up and have asked the federal government for help. Trudeau hints there could be something for them soon.

“We’re working closely with them and will have announcements to make in the coming days about how we’re going to ensure they can do this incredible work that is so important to Canadians,” said Trudeau.

(Eagle News Service)