Coronavirus (COVID-19) Local News

On the bright side, gas is down to $1.13. Now if only there were somewhere to go. Justine Etzkorn doesn’t worry about that. As a lighthouse keeper on the west coast of Vancouver Island, she only ventures into town, Victoria, a couple of times a year.

As the Rapid Relief Fund, launched to help those in need as a result of COVID-19, edges toward $1.3 million, it’s safe to say that this effort is without match anywhere else in Canada. It will soon be matched, however, in Greater Victoria.

A commentary by the public and government affairs director of the Salvation Army’s B.C. Division. In extraordinary times like this, primary concerns preoccupy our minds.

While local businesses struggle to survive, some are going the extra mile to help those who suddenly find themselves unable to put food on the table.

Some pharmacies are asking customers to avoid stockpiling medications as panic-buying during the COVID-19 pandemic leads to a tighter supply of some drugs.

A local tech company is offering no-interest loans to help Victoria small businesses outlast the COVID-19 pandemic. Co-founder Andrew Wilkinson announced Tuesday that Tiny will offer such businesses zero per cent unsecured loans.

Frigate HMCS Regina called off at-sea training after less than two days and returned to CFB Esquimalt because a Canadian navy sailor has a family member who might have been exposed to COVID-19.

Coalition of Neighbourhood Houses - $275,000 to be shared among 10 organizations, including: • Beacon Community Services - $125,000 for financial supports, through the Homeless Prevention Fund, for rent subsidies, hydro, income supports etc.

Victoria’s Fairmont Empress hotel and the Hotel Grand Pacific are temporarily closing their doors due to the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak, throwing hundreds of people out of work.