We are here for you.
You are not alone.
Dear neighbours and friends who were born outside of Canada,
We know that it is difficult to be far away from family and friends right now, but you are not alone. No matter where you were born, no matter what language you speak, and no matter what your status is in Canada, you are part of this community.
If you need help, please ask for it.
Banff and Lake Louise:
Phone: (403) 762-1251
Email: help@banff.ca
Visit: https://banff.ca/covidhelp
Canmore:
Phone: (403) 678-1551
Email: askus@canmore.ca
Visit: https://canmore.ca/covid-19/coronavirus-covid-19-information-for-canmore
MD of Bighorn:
Phone: (403) 673-3611
Email: bighorn@mdbighorn.ca
Website: https://www.mdbighorn.ca
Stay safe and stay strong. We will get through this together.
Help for Foreign Workers
Foreign Worker Support Services provides free help for work permit holders living in Lake Louise, Banff, Canmore, western MD of Bighorn, and Kananaskis.
For news and updates, visit: www.facebook.com/ForeignWorkersBowValley
Contact:
René Dumont
Email: tfw@banff.ca
Phone: (403) 763-1700
Jessica Juen
Email: jjuen@ccisab.ca
Phone: (403) 618-5355
During regular business hours, you might have to leave a message.
Help for Permanent Residents of Canada
Settlement Services in the Bow Valley (SSBV) provides free and confidential support for Permanent Residents of Canada, Live-in Caregivers, Refugees, and Temporary Foreign Workers who are in the final stage of transitioning to Permanent Residency status.
SSBV supports continue to be available by phone, email, and teleconferencing.
For news and updates, visit: www.facebook.com/settlement.services.in.the.bow.valley/
Contact:
Phone: (403) 762-1144
Email: settlement.programmer@banff.ca
COVID-19 Information Questions:
If I lose my job, can I lose my status in Canada?
If you are a Permanent Resident of Canada or if your work permit has not yet expired you can legally stay in Canada, even if you lose your job. Learn more about COVID-19 and immigration.
What happens if my work permit expires after I lose my job?
If your permit is expiring soon or recently expired, you can apply to change your status, extend your temporary status, or restore your status. See how COVID-19 is affecting immigration, refugees, citizenship and passport services.
What if I cannot return home because of travel restrictions?
If you lose your job and cannot return home, ask your employer or landlord if you can stay in your current accommodation. If you need help with housing, food, or expenses, contact the municipalities listed above.
Do I qualify for income support?
There are 4 financial benefits you can apply for if your job has been impacted by COVID-19. Download this simple flowchart to help you apply for the right benefits.
Employment Insurance (EI): If you have a valid work permit, a Social Insurance Number, and have worked enough hours, you may qualify for Employment Insurance. This includes foreign workers. The minimum number of hours worked depends on the type of Employment Insurance you are applying for. You can apply for EI through Service Canada. Click here for more information.
Last updated: December 2, 2020
We are all in this together.
There are many local services that can support you. If you need help, please ask for it.