Ontario govt. extends virtual mental health services during COVID-19

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The Ontario government hopes to help out those experiencing anxiety and depression during the COVID-19 pandemic with access to virtual mental health services. The provincial government committed a $12 million fund to allow relevant agencies to hire and train more staff, obtain the equipment they need, as well as support the improvement of virtual support offered. 

They're rolling out an internet-based Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (iCBT) programs to allow people to find the support they need. The initiative was developed with MindBeacon and Morneau Shepell and is supported by therapists. It's available in English and French, and it comes at no extra cost for Ontarians.

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Ontario government partners with Apple, Rogers to give 21,000 iPads to students from low-income families

The government of Ontario has announced a new partnership with Apple and Rogers to offer over 21,000 iPads to students in the province who come from low-income families. The tablets will come with free Rogers wireless data until June 2020 and pre-loaded access to the Ontario government's learn-at-home portal. According to Rogers, the tablets will start arriving in the coming week. But it isn't specified what iPad model the students will get, and if the program will extend to more provinces. The partnership is meant to support the government's Learn At Home program.

Airbnb, short-term rentals temporarily banned by Ontario govt. due to COVID-19

The Government of Ontario temporarily bans the operation of Airbnb and other short-term rentals during the COVID-19 pandemic. Those allowed to operate include rentals that have "provided to individuals who are in need of housing during the emergency period." Hosts who do not comply with the order issued under the Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act could face fines of up to $100,000. The ruling doesn't cover hotels, motels, or student residences in the province.

Airbnb encourages its hosts and guests to follow the restrictions. The company recently launched a global initiative to offer free or subsidized housing to healthcare professionals amid the pandemic. And it noted that the new ruling wouldn't affect this program. Airbnb has committed US$250 million (around CA$352 million) to reimburse hosts for cancelled bookings. But it isn't clear if the temporary ruling means hosts in the province will receive assistance.

Source: MobileSyrup

Ontario government now has a dedicated coronavirus webpage

The Ontario government will keep its residents informed about the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) through a new website. The page will be updated twice daily, at 10:30 a.m. ET and 5:30 p.m. ET, to let the public know about the status of cases in the province. The webpage shows information about the number of cases currently under investigation, those confirmed, negative cases, as well as the resolved ones.

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