COVID-19 Resource list

We’ve compiled a list of resources pertaining to COVID-19. We’ll be updating this list as things develop and we discover important resources. If you know of a resource that you think should be included, email us at outreach@artsalliance.sk.ca.

Last updated January 25, 2022.

Important Mental Health and Addictions Help Available: Pocketwell – The Minister of Mental Health and Addictions has announced the launch of PocketWell, a free companion app to the Wellness Together Canada (WTC) online platform which gives access to a virtual network of mental health and substance use supports. PocketWell connects with the WTC portal to allow Canadians to access free and confidential sessions with social workers, psychologists and other professionals from their mobile phone.

Statistics Canada is conducting a Pilot Study on Everyday Well-being, in collaboration with Canada Council for the Arts and Canadian Heritage. The survey runs from January 10 to March 31, 2022. The goal of this survey is to gain a better understanding of the impact of certain activities, such as arts and cultural activities that can influence the day-to-day changes in emotional moods and mental states of participants. These types of data are especially important at a time when COVID-19 has had an impact on the physical and emotional well-being of many Canadians. To take part, click here.

Government Extends Loan Forgiveness Repayment Deadline for CEBAThe Canada Emergency Business Account was a program that provided loans of up to $60,000 to businesses and nonprofits to help them weather the COVID-19 pandemic. The federal government has recently announced that the repayment deadline will be extended until December 31, 2023. Repayment on or before that date will result in forgiveness of up to a third of the value of the loan, meaning that up to $20,000 may be forgiven.

National COVID-19 Guidelines: to help make sense of the continually fluid landscape as it relates to the COVID-19 pandemic, Global Public Affairs is re-instating their bi-weekly COVID-19 guidelines tracking tool. This document highlights the steps each Canadian jurisdiction is taking in light of the evolving COVID pandemic regarding: vaccinations, restrictions and additional special measures. ​

Survey: COVID-19 Significantly Impacted Demand for Cultural Products, Programs and Services – This past year, SaskCulture, in partnership with SK Arts and Creative Saskatchewan, surveyed members of the cultural community to learn more about the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on cultural programming in the province. The survey, called Bouncing Back from COVID-19, ran from June 14 to July 6, 2021 and received 408 responses from a wide cross section of the cultural community.

Thrive Walk in Counselling (Family Service Regina) has transitioned to a Call-in Counselling service during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Call us at 306-757-6675, Monday to Friday between 12:30 and 4 pm and a Counselor will call you back. There is no cost for this service.

UPDATED: Saskatchewan On-Set COVID-19 Protocols: SMPIA

COVID-19 Vaccine – Saskatchewan has developed a COVID-19 Vaccine Delivery Plan, and will be ready to administer vaccine when the first shipment is received.

TAO Tel-Aide Francophone Helpline in Saskatchewan –  French-only helpline available to Saskatchewan residents that are experiencing any form of psychological distress or are in need of emotional support. This service will be available starting December 1, 2020. Just call 1-800-567-9699 for free.

Guidance on Cloth and Non-medical Masks – Effective Monday, November 16, Mandatory masking in indoor public places will be extended to all Saskatchewan communities with populations of 5,000 people or greater.

Safe School Reopen Plan – Saskatchewan Government

The do’s and don’ts of wearing a mask – Saskatchewan Health Authority

Re-Open Saskatchewan Plan – Find information about updates made to the Re-Open Saskatchewan Plan, as changes in restrictions are gradually phased in.

Support for Workers – Outlines who can access support from the provincial government.

Covid-19 Information Page – Information related to government measures can be found here, as well as the coronavirus count in the province, mitigation strategies and other health strategies.

Changes to Federal COVID-19 Supports Announced – As of October 23, 2021 the Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB) and Canadian Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) programs are being closed. The Government of Canada has announced the Tourism and Hospitality Recovery Program and the Hardest-Hit Business Recovery Program as new programs available to assist employers. The Canada Worker Lockdown Benefit was also announced to help employees cope with future potential lockdowns.

COVID-19 Rapid Testing and Screening in the Workplace – Rapid tests for COVID-19 are available for businesses and non-profit organizations through a Government of Canada rapid testing initiative. Guidelines for eligibility, as well as further information about this initiative, can be found here.

The Federal Government has released the details of the Highly Affected Sectors Credit Availability Program (HASCAP), which was previously announced in the Fall Economic Update.

  • The program will be providing further financial support for our industry. The support program will be available via your primary lender on February 1st. These will be 100% government-backed loans and they will provide $25,000 to $1 Million per legal entity, up to a maximum of $6.25 Million for related entities, to be used for operational cash flow. The HASCAP application process will remain open until June 30th, 2021.

Government of Canada – Vaccines and treatments for COVID-19: Vaccine rollout

Emergency Support Fund for Cultural, Heritage and Sport Organizations: Phase 1 recipient survey results Canadian Heritage, in collaboration with the Canada Council for the Arts, Telefilm Canada, and the Canada Media Fund, developed a survey to determine whether the Emergency Support Fund for Cultural, Heritage and Sport Organizations (ESF) achieved its main objectives and inform next steps in supporting these sectors going forward.

From risk to resilience: An equity approach to COVID-19 Chief Public Health Officer of Canada’s Report on the State of Public Health in Canada 2020

Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy (CERS) – Canadian businesses, non-profit organizations, or charities who have seen a drop in revenue due to the COVID-19 pandemic may be eligible for a subsidy to cover part of their commercial rent or property expenses, starting on September 27, 2020, until June 2021.

“Innovation in the Time of COVID” is designed to be an ever-evolving platform that contains strategies for adapting in-person arts-based activities during the COVID-19 pandemic for everyone to share, use, and contribute to.

Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB) – The CRCB provides $500 per week for up to 26 weeks per household for workers:

  • unable to work for at least 50% of the week because they must care for a child under the age of 12 or family member because schools, day-cares or care facilities are closed due to COVID-19
  • because the child or family member is sick and/or required to quarantine or is at high risk of serious health implications because of COVID-19.

Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB) – The CRB provides $500 per week for up to 26 weeks for workers who have stopped working or had their income reduced by at least 50% due to COVID-19, and who are not eligible for Employment Insurance (EI). Applications will open on October 12

Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB) – The CRSB provides $500 per week for up to a maximum of two weeks, for workers who:

  • Are unable to work for at least 50% of the week because they contracted COVID-19
  • Are self-isolated for reasons related to COVID-19
  • have underlying conditions, are undergoing treatments or have contracted other sicknesses that, in the opinion of a medical practitioner, nurse practitioner, person in authority, government or public health authority, would make them more susceptible to COVID-19.

Bill C-20 – Changes to Canada Emergency Wage Subsidy (CEWS) – Bill C-20 makes the legislative changes necessary for organizations without a payroll number to be considered an eligible employer within the CEWS.

CERCA Extended One Month – Read more about CECRA here.

Final Components of Phase 2 of the COVID-19 Emergency Support Fund for Cultural, Heritage and Sport Organizations Announced – Canadian Heritage

Find financial help during COVID-19 – online tool created by the Government of Canada to help Canadians navigate the various financial benefits available during the pandemic

$500 Million for Cultural, Heritage and Sport Organizations

Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) – CERB may provide you with temporary income support. The CERB provides $500 a week for up to 16 weeks.

Outbreak Updates

Risk-informed decision-making for mass gatherings during COVID-19 global outbreak

COVID-19 resources for parents and children – Children, just like adults, have an important role to play in preventing the spread of COVID-19. Use the following resources to help your child understand what’s going on and how they can help.

Canada’s Economic Response Plan – Important information for all workers, non-profits and businesses.

Service Canada – Service Canada is one of the locations where you can apply for EI. The Federal Government has passed the Emergency Response Fund, which collapsed the previous Emergency Benefit and Support Funds, so it’s best to review this new fund.

Canadian Revenue Agency – With CRA administering employment insurance, make sure that you are registered with CRA. The Federal Government has passed the Emergency Response Fund, which collapsed the previous Emergency Benefit and Support Funds, so it’s best to review this new fund.

Employment Insurance

Financial help for Canadians outside Canada – For Canadians who have no available source of funds to return home, Canada has announced the creation of the COVID-19 Emergency Loan Program for Canadians Abroad.

Risk-informed decision-making for mass gatherings during COVID-19 global outbreak

Recovery Funding for Arts Presentation Organizations Available – Administered by the Canada Arts Presentation Fund, the Recovery Funding for Professional Arts Organizations fund aims to support not-for-profit organizations that own or operate presentation venues that are experiencing significant viability and business challenges as a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Applications are accepted until Monday, December 6, 2021 at 23:59 PST. Learn more about eligibility and how to submit an application here.

The Federal Government has released the details of the Highly Affected Sectors Credit Availability Program (HASCAP), which was previously announced in the Fall Economic Update.

  • The program will be providing further financial support for our industry. The support program will be available via your primary lender on February 1st. These will be 100% government-backed loans and they will provide $25,000 to $1 Million per legal entity, up to a maximum of $6.25 Million for related entities, to be used for operational cash flow. The HASCAP application process will remain open until June 30th, 2021.

COVID-19 Emergency Support Fund – Canada Council for the Arts

Community Cares: Emergency Response Fund for First Nations, Inuit and Métis Individuals Working in the Arts, a new time-limited emergency response fund to support First Nations, Inuit and Métis individuals working in the arts and culture sector during the COVID-19 pandemic. Indigenous communities have been disproportionately affected by the Covid-19 pandemic

McConnell Foundation – New grants that respond to the Covid-19 Crisis

The Photographer Fund – $25,000 fund to help photographers impacted by COVID-19

Digital Orginals Funding Initiative –  CBC/Radio-Canada and Canada Council for the Arts announce “Digital Originals” funding initiative to support Canadian arts community

Saskatchewan Association of Theatre Professionals Emergency Relief Fund

For SATP members, the organization is offering one-time full and partial compensation of necessities such as rent and food.

Woodcock Fund Grant – Writer’s Trust of Canada

For writers facing financial crisis in mid-project. Min. of two books or equivalent published.

Emergency Survival Fund for LGBTQ2S Artists – Glad Day Lit

Given that both Glad Day and the people they serve are faced with an immediate crisis, they want to create a fund that supports Glad Day and the people they serve.

Actors Fund of Canada – The AFC supports entertainment industry professionals working in TV and film, music, theatre, and dance. The AFC can provide short-term emergency financial assistance for essential household bills and costs that cannot otherwise be paid.

Unison Music Fund – Financial aid for musicians

COVID-19 & Freelance Artists – This list is specifically designed to serve freelance artists, and those interested in supporting the independent artist community.

COVID Protocols Guidebook for the Arts Sector and Live Events: Rise Up Calgary – This Guidebook is intended to mitigate risks stemming from COVID-19. Its contents can inform and complement operational plans and occupational and safety protocols, plans, and manuals already in place for an organization. Check it out here.

The Federal Government has released the details of the Highly Affected Sectors Credit Availability Program (HASCAP), which was previously announced in the Fall Economic Update.

  • The program will be providing further financial support for our industry. The support program will be available via your primary lender on February 1st. These will be 100% government-backed loans and they will provide $25,000 to $1 Million per legal entity, up to a maximum of $6.25 Million for related entities, to be used for operational cash flow. The HASCAP application process will remain open until June 30th, 2021.

“Innovation in the Time of COVID” is designed to be an ever-evolving platform that contains strategies for adapting in-person arts-based activities during the COVID-19 pandemic for everyone to share, use, and contribute to.

Reshaping Community Programming – Community Initiatives Fund

Living with face masks: How to stow them, reuse disposables and more – CBC News

17 summer activities and your risk of getting COVID-19 – CBC News

5 Ways to Sell Your Art Online While Social Distancing – Artwork Archive

Crafting a Sustainable Arts Career in Uncertain Times – April MacKillins Photography

COVID-19: Health and Safety Guidelines for Commercial Photographers – The Canadian Association of Professional Image Creators

Recommended practices for paying artists during the COVID-19 crisis – CARFAC National

Saskatchewan Choral Federation – Resources have been compiled and shared by Choir Alberta and other contributors as noted for choirs, conductors, and other choral leaders during the COVID-19 pandemic.

COVID-19 Resources and links for artists – CARFAC National

CBC Benefit Guide – A hub of benefits the federal government, provinces and territories are offering to people financially affected by the coronavirus.

How are you adapting? Video Series from Business/Arts

Canadian Emergency Response Benefit Fact Sheet

Metric Categories for Arts & Culture – Canadian Heritage

Hon. Steven Guilbault, Minister of Canadian Heritage, shared this metrics document that suggests what categories you should consider as you are tracking your losses.

CARFAC Sask – COVID-19 Resource page

Tips for Completing Record of Employment Forms with respect to Covid-19 – Young Associates

Canadian Actors’ Equity Association: The CAEA has lots of updates about their organization and initiatives that they are taking on their website.

Preparing for the Potential Impact of Coronavirus – Arts Ready Alert

Arts Ready is an American organizations that specializes in emergency, risk and disaster management for arts organizations. Their website also has a schedule of webinars and valuable resources.

COVID-19 Resource Page – Professional Association of Canadian Theatres

More resources for folks.

Coronavirus Preparedness for the Live Performance Sector – CAPACOA

This document is variably a resource list, an advocacy toolkit, and offers subscription to their newsletter.

IFCCD Covid-19 Overview: Support for the cultural sector is growing around the world… unevenly

A letter from Minister of Canadian Heritage Steven Guilbeault

Resources for the Arts and Learning sector during the COVID-19 pandemic – The Canadian Network for Arts and Learning

  • Covid Visions by Steven Ross Smith – Check out our latest series Covid Visions by poet and arts writer Steven Ross Smith. Each story highlights Saskatchewan artists or arts organizations facing the strange reality of Covid-19.
  • Roundness: Artists Respond to Covid-19 –  ROUNDNESS was coordinated through an open, international call on Facebook to artists to reflect on the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic. The artists were asked to explore the idea of ‘roundness’, and produce a piece in any medium they wished. Included are artists from Manitoba, Ontario, Japan, & the United States.
  • Greetings from Isolation – Created by Canadian veteran film programmer Stacey Donen in the hopes of finding inspiration and enlightenment from our shared human experience of isolation under COVID-19, Greetings from Isolation has invited a broad range of Canadian filmmakers to participate in a capsule collection film project.
  • Studio Sundays at the MacKenzie Art Gallery and presented by Canada Life – connect with the artwork in the MacKenzie’s Permanent Collection and the artists that created them with hands-on workshops that are suitable for every age
  • SSO for You – Online content from the Saskatoon Symphony Orchestra
  • CBC: COVID Residences – self-shot video series on how artists are adapting their practices in isolation, whether it’s diving into different processes or getting lost in their sketchbooks
  • CBC’s Art Uncontained, a rich collection from CBC Arts offering inspiration for audiences and support to the Canadian artistic community in these unprecedented times.
  • Virtual Tours, Museums, and Activities – Dunlop Art Gallery put together this amazing list of resources so you and your loved ones can experience the world from anywhere. No library card or sign-ins needed.
  • Virtual Backgrounds by Artists Bridget Moser – Remai Modern
  • Yet More Free Stuff in the Public Domain – archives of beautiful images, videos, and fonts in the public domain. The following list will direct you to thousands of wonderful things you can download, re-purpose, and exploit without the fear of copyright-infringement notices.
  • On the Boards.tv
  • In 2010, On the Boards theater launched OntheBoards.tv, a website that delivers full-length, high quality contemporary performance films to your TV, desktop or mobile device.
  • The Social Distancing Festival
  • This is a site for celebrating artists and the work that has been cancelled/delayed/disrupted. So far, submissions have included clips from rehearsals, scenes done with cast-mates over webcam, recordings from previous workshops, design plans, and performers just doing the song they were really excited about singing into their webcam.
  • PlayMe
  • Contemporary plays transformed for podcast setting.
  • Cabin Fever: Online experimental films and videos
  • The initial intention of this list was to gather some experimental films together based on moods one might be experiencing while being cooped up, and has evolved from there.
  • ReelAbilities Film Festival
  • Founded in 2007 by the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan, ReelAbilities Film Festival: New York is the largest festival in the country dedicated to promoting awareness and appreciation of the lives, stories and artistic expressions of people with disabilities.
  • Brick, a Literary Journal
  • Brick is an international literary journal published twice a year out of Toronto. Their entire catalogue is currently open to public.
  • Play Reading Relay
  • From 11AM & 6PM EDT on March 27th, 28 playwrights will livestream 10-minute readings from their plays over an exciting 7 hour day. Presented by Playwrights Guild of Canada for World Theatre Day.
  • Digital and Online Projects – Akimbo
  • Akimbo has an open list of artist run centres and other galleries that are posting online tours.
  • CBC Gem
  • National Film Board