Thoughts and guidance for Canadian small and mid-size companies through this crisis.

Sharing some thoughts and comments from our Canadian HR partners at Honiva Consulting as she reflects on the work they are doing for their clients across Canada in this difficult time. With so much happening so fast, most employers particularly small and mid-size businesses are struggling with how to cope through all the challenges. Kimberley and her teams are helping take companies across a wide range of sectors through this, so that they and their teams can get through this with minimal negative impacts. For those that may need similar assistance, I have provided contact points below.

"I wanted to reconnect to share updates on the recent outbreak and fallout for employers. Specifically, some of the emergency actions taken to respond to the crisis. As well, I wanted to let you know that we can expect further support through the Emergency Care Benefit and Emergency Support Benefit, which will be administered through the Canada Revenue Agency. These programs are meant to help people who are falling through the cracks where they may not be eligible for the EI programs that were expanded.

We would recommend that you encourage your team to setup a myCRA Account if they have not already done so. It does take a bit of time to setup, but if they are proactive should see information on how to apply for the Emergency Care Benefit in April.

 For employers/self-employed, I would also recommend that you keep an eye out for information on how to apply for the Emergency Support Benefit.

 Overall, most employers are doing the right thing for their teams and businesses. That can not be said for all. There may still be businesses that won’t make it through this crisis period.

 Below are some of the responses we have seen over the last week for companies across Canada. We hope by sharing this information you are more equipped to respond in the next emergency:

• Reduced staff through the new 14 day quarantine leave for safety and operational reasons
• Initiated temporary layoffs for 60 days
• Split operating teams into more confined work groups
• Called on banks to reduce fees and increase credit facilities
• Called in their accounts receivables from clients
• Called suppliers, landlords, insurance, and utilities vendors for payment deferrals

 Many business leaders took the time to speak with their team to provide assurances and share their plans to keep everyone as whole as possible. I would like to take this time to recognize the wonderful people who run these businesses and had to make some very hard decisions this week. I would also like to spend time to thank those who turned to us for help. We are glad to hear most businesses are returning to a state of normalcy and looking ahead to recovery. We will remain available to provide ongoing support to help you strengthen your business, so you have more options and the ability to respond faster in future."

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://www.honiva.com