Renfrew-Collingwood Community News December 2020

CELEBRATING

December 2020

OVER

COMMUNITY NEWS

RenfrewCollingwoodCommunityNews.com

Saving the past for the future

by Paul Reid I don’t know if you know this, but the Renfrew-Collingwood Community News has been instrumental in helping preserve much of this community’s history. It’s true!

In the case of historic Firehall 15, it likely would not have been renovated to its original glory had the RCC News not alerted the community to its proposed destruction. Residents then used the RCC News to rally local residents to help save it. Eventually, after a two-year scuffle with Vancouver cityhall, our

Committee to Save Firehall 15 (and build a new one beside it) succeeded. Yay! The RCC News was also directly involved with the saving of Vancouver’s oldest tworoom schoolhouse at Carleton School. Had the wife of the Green Thumb Theatre’s director not read the article where we highlighted its Photo: Green Thumb Theatre

The vintage 2400 Court Motel has been maintained throughout the years to look as good now as it did in its heydey . It is the last motor court hotel of its kind left. Photos: Dees postcards.com and 2400 Motel

Free online art classes

Page 3

Tale of two streams

Page 5

Continued on page 2

Celebrating seniors

Page 6

Enjoy winter through hygge Page 9

2

December 2020

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Saving the past for the future - Continued from page 1 looming destruction (following an ar- rent participation, the 2400 Motel son attack) it likely never would have will continue to exist for many more found new life as Green Thumb’s new years to come. headquarters. Double yay!

As part of the resident group who So we saved the old firehall, we saved helped to save Firehall 15, I know that Collingwood residents and the the old school, what is next? If ever Collingwood Business Improvement there was another historic building Association had a vision for the comin RC that we should be concerned munity as “Historic Collingwood”. about saving, it is the 2400 Motel.

We wanted to build on the fact that Collingwood, one of Vancouver’s Even more so than the Carleton schoolhouse or Firehall 15, the 2400 original early suburbs, has a long and interesting history. For this reaMotel is already a famous historic landmark. Not only for RC, but for all son, this community needs to work extra hard to maintain what history of Vancouver, and from what I have we still have left. learned, I would say all of Canada.

It’s actually quite amazing that the 2400 is still around since it has been Imagine 100 years in the future. on the top-10 endangered list from as Given their recent restorations, Firefar back as 2006, with developers ea- hall 15 and Carleton are likely to still ger to turn it into yet another condo/ be standing. Won’t that be amazing when these buildings are not just highrise.

100 years old, but 200 years old!

Then 300, 400 … Then their historic Built in significance will really come in to 1946, the 2400 Motel focus and we will surely not regret having saved these historical gems. is virtually the last Imagine a tour bus that takes visiexample left of a mo- tors throughout RC, stopping at Firehall 15, the schoolhouse, maybe tor court hotel from that era. There are 18 cot- for lunch, and then ... ? Would we tage style buildings with a total of 65 have the 2400 Motel? What’s a hisguestrooms within a park-like setting toric tour with only two stops? But if we had three – three solid historic of 3.5 acres. locations worth visiting – that would be enough for such a tour, solidifyIn addition to being a fully maintained time capsule into the past, the ing the future of this community as Historic Collingwood.

2400 Motel has a rich and colourful history. It has been in a number of TV and film productions, most nota- Just a few years ago we unfortubly The X-Files. It was the notorious nately lost historic Avalon Dairy (the province’s oldest running dairy) to place where the Millenium Bomber built a bomb in 1999. It was the home “progress” and construction. That would have been a good one too. to Syrian refugees and apparently Does anyone remember Avalon soon to Vancouver’s homeless.

Dairy Days? Remember what fun was had out on the large front lawn According to General Manager, of the historic dairy house watching Michael Lopez, the 2400 Motel has Nearly Neil and all the other acts? really been coming in handy during the current pandemic. He says, “It Why does it have to be nowadays is a good choice in terms of an isolation type of configuration: from your that if there is just a bit of green vehicle to your direct unit - no corri- space (such as the grass at Avalon or the grass around the 2400) that we dors, no elevators.” immediately feel the need to pave it over and build more condos and “Since the pandemic, we have been fortunate to have served the needs of retail space. I know – because the various Social services organizations: property is worth so much? But is it worth getting rid of the very reasons Vancouver Coastal Hospital (for all sorts of recovering patients from co- for why this is a nice place to live vid related to non-covid), Emergency and visit? We can build those things nearly anywhere, so why would we Social Services (accommodating unfortunate clients from house fires, erase and paint over an important etc.), Canadian Red Cross, Immigra- part of our history? Are high-rises and chain stores all we want for our tion Social Services, John Howard community in 100 years? Will we Society and many other types of pave our 2400 Motel paradise to put social services.” Michael hopes that due to all of the various past and cur- up yet another parking lot?

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

3

December 2020

Coping with COVID: Keep learning and exploring CNH launches Online Art series

by Crystal Lan Collingwood Neighbourhood House’s first ever online art series offers free workshops by local artists every Saturday from 1 to 3 pm.

Get connected through the arts! Meet your neighbours and try new activities ranging from painting, cooking, reflexology, origami, holiday card making and more.

In light of COVID, arts programs at the Collingwood Neighbourhood House Annex are now offered online.

On October 17, the first participants to the Online Art Series had fun baking their own pumpkin pies alongside Najia Elacel, the chef at Collingwood Neighbourhood House’s community kitchen.

Participants heard tips and tricks for baking pies from scratch, including how to keep them delicious but have a low sugar content. The most important tip?

Participants had fun baking their own pumpkin pies alongside Najia Elacel, the chef at Collingwood Neighbourhood House’s community kitchen.

Screenshots by CNH Community Development

Winter dye workshop at Alder Eco-Arts Hub Using autumn leaves and natural dried flowers such as marigold and coreopsis, create different prints and colours experimenting with different temperatures and pH levels.

Upcoming workshop Bundle dye silk: Saturday, December 5, 1 – 4 pm

“We’re not professionals. There’s no perfection when it comes to homemade stuff, there’s only the taste of love.”

Lift your spirits from the safety of your home this cold season with these family-friendly free activities. Register online (find the Eventbrite link at www. cnh.bc.ca/event/online-art-series) to receive workshop livestream links.

Artists and workshops are subject to change. The current session runs until December 19, and a new series will start in January 2021. Always check with ytomita@cnh.bc.ca if you are unsure who is presenting.

Cost: $75 Location: Alder Eco-Arts Hub, Slocan Park Fieldhouse, 2750 East 29th Avenue next to the 29th Avenue SkyTrain station

Upcoming classes Saturdays, 1 to 3 pm December 5 – Ornament making with Melinda Broom December 12 - Painting class with Joy Hanser, project TBC December 19 – Card making with Yoko Tomita

THANK YOU!

to all who advertise with the RCCNews For over 20 years you have been providing the RenfrewCollingwood community with a voice!

Coreopsis tinctoria and pollinators in the dye garden. Source: www. instagram.com/alderecoarts

Now offering Contactless Delivery.

Order and Pay Online.

Order Delivery Or Carry Out

Phone: 604-437-1717

Website: www.papajohns.ca #300-3320 Kingsway, Vancouver Hours: Sunday-Thursday: 11AM-10:45PM Friday-Saturday: 11AM - 11:45PM

4

December 2020

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Thank you contributors, advertisers and distributors COMMUNITY NEWS The mission of this non-profit publication is to provide the residents, businesses and organizations of Renfrew/Collingwood with a medium for community communication.

Paul Reid: staff writer and layout coordinator Lisa Symons: sales and distribution coordinator Julie Cheng: editorial coordinator

Contributors: Ann Wong, Anna Hofmarks, Bryden Fergusson, CNH Community Development, Crystal Lan, Jenny Shen, Paul Reid, Sophia Han

We want to hear from you!

Yes, You! Send comments, community events, press releases by regular post, fax or e-mail.

Suggestions for improving the paper are welcome.

We welcome appropriate, unsolicited editorial submissions if accompanied by the author’s real name, address and telephone number. The author should retain the original as we cannot return submissions without prior agreement nor does submission guarantee publication. We reserve the right to make editorial changes.

The Renfrew/Collingwood Community News does not necessarily support the views of its contributors.

Next submission deadline: Jan. 8 The Renfrew-Collingwood Community News is an initiative of the Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH).

Yo u C a n F i n d t h e RC Community News @ Libraries, Collingwood Neighbourhood House, Renfrew Park Community Centre, The Italian Cultural Centre, Collingwood Policing Office, other organizations, religious institutions, schools, laundromats, Starbucks, Rona, Superstore, Canadian Tire, Walmart, London Drugs and Safeway coffee shops, restaurants, markets, corner stores, other businesses, and coffee tables all over Renfrew-Collingwood.

Contact the RCCNews Phone: 604-435-0323 extension 261 Fax: 604-451-1191 Editorial: rccnews-editorial@cnh.bc.ca Advertising: Phone Lisa Symons at 604.435.0323 email: rccnews-sales@cnh.bc.ca Renfrew/Collingwood Community News Collingwood Neighbourhood House 5288 Joyce Street Vancouver, BC V5R 6C9

Many thanks to the writers, photographers, advertisers and distributors who help our monthly newspaper bring the Renfrew-Collingwood community together. We are grateful to all of you for your ongoing support during this unusual and challenging COVID-19 year.

Warmest wishes for a safe and healthy 2021. ―The RCC News team

Contributors Adrian Dix Alexandra Dawley Amber Webber Andrea Berneckas Ann Wong Anna Hofmarks Barbara Larman Bill Gates Brenda Krivuzoff Bryden Fergusson Carmen Rosen Carrie Hill Creative Cassandra Ly CBR Photography Chao Cheng CNH Community Development Coco Aschmann-cross Crecien Bencio Crystal Lan Daniel Louie

Davy Chiu Deanna Cheng Emily Hoang Emily Rees Emma Warner Chee Environmental Youth Alliance Gloria Moore Halena Seiferling Himani Bhatnagar Hungerford Properties Italian Cultural Centre Jenny Lim Jenny Shen Jessie Leung John Drury John Mendoza Julie Cheng Kacia Tolsma Karen Vanon Kayla Isomura

Kirsten Mendonca Lawrence Yuen Lindy Johnston Loretta Houben Madelyn Read Marco Jiehao Su Maria-José Araujo Mark Evans Mendel Skulski Michelle Nguyen Mik Turje Monica Cervantes Othmane Mechatte Paul Reid Paula Carr Penny Lim Qwisun Yoon-Potkins RJ Aquino Robert F. Edwards Ryan Kenny Photography Sandra Bodenhamer

Shannon Miller Sheri Parke Shila Avissa Sonny Won Nguyen Sophia Han Still Moon Arts Suzanne Liddle T. Gray Tony Wanless Winnie Chen

Advertisers 2400 Motel 1st Ave Dental Group Adrian Dix, MLA Alexander Income Tax Better At Home Cheryl Davie Real Estate Century Music School Chelsea Park Collingwood Baptist Church Collingwood Business Improvement Association Collingwood Days Collingwood Insurance Collingwood Law Office Collingwood Neighbourhood House Dias Notaries Public Don Davies MP Famous Foods Gastrointestinal Society Harmony Do Re Mi Music & Arts School Grandview-Collingwood Legion Branch #179 Il Museo - Italian Cultural Centre Joyce Hair Design Joyce Station Dental Kung Fu Yes Institute Knight & Day Restaurant Papa Johns Pizza Renfrew Park Community Centre See Rite Optical Sodhi & Associates Still Moon Arts Society St. Mary’s School The Deli by Continental Sausage The Tipper Restaurant Three Links Care Society

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

5

December 2020

Neighbourhood nature and climate change: Tale of two streams

by Bryden Fergusson Climate change has not only resulted in more and longer dry periods, it also seems to bring more intense storms, resulting in more fluctuating water flows. Here are two photos of Still Creek, which is one of only two uncovered streams left in the City of Vancouver that have not been daylighted. The photos are taken within two city blocks of each other and the stream is part of the Renfrew Ravine Park.

Which section of the creek is more able to sustain high water flows and droughts more effectively? Along with providing a better environment for plants and animals? In my opinion, the answer to both questions is the first photo of the creek, which has the ability to better absorb the fluctuations in stream flows and protect the environment that depends on the creek for survival.

The first photo shows the stream in its more natural state. There are, of course, some nonnative plants that have flowed down the creek from stormwater runoff and dumping, but there are also many native plants populating the creek banks. The native vegetation provides stream bank stability and shade. Water flow management is achieved with gravel banks, natural swales and the additional stream width. Plants, fish, birds, insects and other animals are able to make use of the creek to live and prosper.

A section of Still Creek in its natural state. Photos by Bryden Fergusson creek was narrowed, vegetation cleared and paths were built for people to safely view and enjoy the creek.

flows are intense, sweeping away plants and animals. In my opinion, this section of the stream is a pretty storm sewer system.

With hotter and less rainy summers, this creek section has low flows and very little water retention. When heavy rainstorms take place, creek

Bryden Fergusson is a resident of RenfrewCollingwood who enjoys the sights and sounds of Renfrew Ravine.

The second photo is downstream, near the Renfrew Park Community Centre. It is the more managed section of the creek. Stone walls were built along the side and the creek bottom was replaced with rock shale. The

A managed section of Still Creek.

by Karen Vanon

6

December 2020

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

The S e n i o r s C o n nection Celebrating National Seniors Day October 1 was National Seniors Day in Canada and coincides with the United Nations International Day of Older Persons. Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH) staff found a fun and COVID-safe way to show their appreciation and remind the community of the contributions and sacrifices our seniors have made and continue to make to pave the way for younger generations.

They held a good ol’ rally, donning signs to remind passersby to call their grandparents and elders and to “Honk for seniors,” which many happily obliged.

2015 marked the first year that seniors (65+) started to outnumber children ages 15 or younger and the gap continued to widen over the years. By 2019, about one in six Canadians were over the age of 65 and it is projected that ratio will be closer to one in four by 2035.

Given the growth of the senior population, the National Institute on Aging have been advocating for a National Seniors Strategy.

On National Seniors Day, Collingwood Neighbourhood House had fun celebrating and reminding the community that seniors are a crucial part of our society and hope you can join them for another round of ruckus raising next year. Photos by Jenny Shen The strategy stands on four key pillars: 1) Independent, productive and engaged citizens, 2) Healthy and active lives, 3) Care closer to home and 4) Support for unpaid caregivers.

CNH has many programs that support these four pillars, from low-cost housekeeping and shuttle service, which helps seniors stay independent, to the Choose to Move program, which offers group coaching sessions to promote physical wellness, to online singalongs and worldly discussions with CNH’s own retired University of B.C. sociolinguist.

A National Seniors Day is a great way to recognize the contribution of our older generation and serves as a reminder that the senior population is growing.

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

December 2020

Stay active with Choose to Move

by Eda Ertan

Choose to Move is a free program that supports seniors to become and stay active.

Participants develop a personal action plan, receive 1-on-1 coaching and group support, and learn new ways to live a healthier and more active life.

For more information or to participate, call 604-445- 1773 or visit www. choosetomove.ca.

Don Davies MP Vancouver Kingsway

Best wishes for the holidays!

Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah!

However you celebrate this season, remember to do it safely!

Community Office 2951 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC V5R 5J4 604-775-6263 | Don.Davies@parl.gc.ca

DonDavies.ca

7

8

December 2020

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

How one case of COVID-19 spreads to the community

Source: COVID-19: Monthly Update, November 12, 2020 by the B.C. government news.gov.bc.ca/files/COVID19_Monthly_Update_Nov_2020.pdf

T HANK YO U! to all who advertise with the RCCNews To advertise: Contact Lisa at 604-435-0323 or email: rccnews-sales@cnh.bc.ca

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Read On!

9

December 2020

A news section for Renfrew-Collingwood learners

Hygge – Enjoy a cozy winter at home

by Sophia Han

What is hygge?  Hygge (pronounced “hyoo-gah”) is a Danish word that means “cozy.” It can be used to describe things that make you feel comfortable, pleasant and warm.

In recent years, hygge has become a popular way to talk about simple pleasures that you enjoy with family or friends. If you have ever shared a cup of tea with a friend indoors on a snowy or rainy day, you have experienced hygge.

Since hygge is a state of mind, it does not have many rules. You can experience hygge both indoors and outdoors.

For example, outdoor activities that are relaxing (such as a walk around the neighbourhood) can also be described as hygge. Sometimes the best part about a walk in the rain or snow is the feeling of comfort and safety you enjoy when you come home.

Read On! has a web page. You can:  Read the articles http://renfrewcollingwood communitynews.com/category/ read-on/

Reading levels on this page UPPER INTERMEDIATE  LOWER INTERMEDIATE  BEGINNER  VOCABULARY Danish – People or things from the country of Denmark cozy – a feeling of comfort pleasant – something you enjoy recent – new, not long ago popular – something that many people like simple pleasures – things that make us feel happy but do not cost a lot of money experience – knowledge that you get by doing something state of mind (idiom) – how you think about something activities – things you do keeping things simple (idiom) – doing things that are not fancy and do not cost much money fluffy – very soft sip – to drink a small amount at a time handicrafts – things you make with your hands worry – to think about problems take the time (idiom) – to do something slowly

Hygge is a word you can use to describe this feeling of coming home and feeling safe.

How to enjoy a cozy winter at home  Hygge is a cozy way to enjoy the winter. Because hygge is about keeping things simple, you don’t need to spend a lot of money to enjoy the feeling. Just do things that make you feel relaxed and comfortable: ● Wear warm clothes like fluffy slippers, scarves and sweaters ● Light candles ● Sip warm drinks like tea or cocoa ● Bake and eat homemade cakes and cookies ● Read or make handicrafts ● Walk around the neighbourhood This winter, don’t worry about the weather outside. Take the time to enjoy the simple pleasures and feeling of hygge.

WORDSEARCH: https://thewordsearch.com/puzzle/1616445/what-is-hygge/

10

December 2020

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH)

H IGHLIG H TS

Joyce Location: 5288 Joyce St. ; Tel: 604-435-0323 / Annex Location: 3690 Vanness Ave. ; Tel: 604-428-9142 / Visit: www.cnh.bc.ca

‘Opportunity to learn and grow’: Staff celebrate 20 years of service

By Collingwood Neighbourhood House

Collingwood Neighbourhood House (CNH) proudly recognizes its long-serving staff members. At the 2020 Annual General Meeting (AGM), CNH staff and contractors who have reached the milestones of 5, 10, 15, 20, 25 and, for the first time in CNH’s history, 30 years of service and dedication to the neighbourhood house, were thanked by the Board of Directors.

This year, we recognize and celebrate Carmen E. Correal Martinez, Recreation Coordinator, and Cheryl Hallman, Jazzercise Instructor, for 20 years of service.

Carmen E. Correal Martinez

Carmen Correal began to take ESL classes run by CNH at First Lutheran Church after arriving in Vancouver in July 1998. Before immigrating to Canada, Carmen had obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education (PE) as well as a Master’s degree in Sexual Education and Orientation in Colombia. She had also worked as a PE teacher during her time there.

Upon finishing her ESL classes in 1999, Carmen started volunteering for several recreation programs at CNH, such as Parents and Tots. She started her own program soon after, which she called ‘Spanish with Fun’ dedicated to local families in the community.

Carmen started her first work at CNH as a substitute recreation instructor. She then became a regular instructor for adults and school children where she worked closely with Mike McLenaghen, the Recreation Coordinator at that time. In 2006, Carmen was promoted to the full-time role of Recreation Coordinator when Mike became a director and has since been working in the position.

Carmen’s family has been deeply connected to CNH since they first immigrated to Canada. Carmen’s son Carlos joined her when she was volunteering for Parents and Tots. Her daughter Laura also helped her translate and read to children during the Spanish with This page is sponsored by Collingwood Neighbourhood House

Fun classes. Her other daughter, Adriana, has also been involved with CNH and created an art installation on the foyer walls. In fact, both Laura and Adriana have worked as recreation instructors. All three of Carmen’s children have volunteered in a diversity of CNH programs. Carmen’s daughter has two small children and they have also had the opportunity to participate in the various programs that CNH has to offer, including Parents and Tots.

Carmen says, “CNH has given me the opportunity to learn and grow and be part of the community. I love having the opportunity to give back and feel very connected to the Collingwood community. It’s so rewarding to support newcomers and residents when they come to Collingwood. CNH staff are so supportive of me, and I want to thank them all.”

Cheryl Hallman

Cheryl Hallman attended her first Jazzercise class in 1980, and she loved it! A year later, she became a Jazzercise instructor herself.

CNH’s previous Executive Director, Paula Carr, attended one of her classes and liked her so much she asked Cheryl if she would teach classes to the staff at CNH. It started with a few of the staff – Paula, Isolde, Satinder, and Kulwant. Eventually, CNH opened the classes to the public, and it just took off.

One of Cheryl’s favourite memories was when she was teaching a Saturday class. She was just finishing a routine and said, “Hold it right there!” All of a sudden, the power went off and the class was plunged into darkness. It turns out a fallen tree knocked out the power lines down the street. Cheryl ended class early that day and went for coffee with the class at the Bamboo Cafe instead.

In twenty years of teaching at CNH, Cheryl has some lovely memories from the community participants and staff. The participants love her energy, enthusiasm, and workout. Cheryl continues to go for coffee at the Bamboo Cafe after class on Saturdays. She truly values the social connections she’s made at CNH.

11

December 2020

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

December 2020 Christmas in Collingwood On November 28th the Collingwood BIA hosted the annual Community Christmas Tree Lighting. At 5:00p.m. sharp the lights were turned on to start off the Holiday Season. At the Clock Tower on Joyce St. and Kingsway a new holiday light installation brightens up the area. These are wishing stars, we are wishing everyone a very happy and healthy holiday season.

It will be smaller in sizes but their will by an abundance of CHEER from afar.

Join us in our Christmas shopping campaign Gift BIG Shop Small Collingwood shops have something for everyone on your list.

Follow us on social media @shopcollingwood for deals, contests and gift suggestions.

Covid Micro Grants for Businesses The Collingwood BIA appreciates all of the businesses following all the Public Health Orders take were given throughout the pandemic. We are aware the increase expenses in insuring the high standards of sanitizing and safety precautions and would like to help our businesses to cover some of these costs.

The CBIA will be offering Covid Micro Grants up to $500.00 to cover these added expenses. Please contact us at 604.639.4403 or email info@shopcollingwood.ca for more information.

The grant will cover costs retroactive to April 2020 to present and to items such as: -

hand sanitizers/refills masks PPE Plexi glass partitions

- floor stickers or markers - signage (with Covid messaging) - face shields - gloves

Covid 19 Ð We all need to work together.

WHAT YOU CAN DO: - Stay home if you are sick or not feeling well - SOCIAL DISTANCE 2 Meters apart - Wear masks when required - WASH HANDS OFTEN 20 seconds - BE PATIENT & STAY INFORMED

Receipts must be submitted with application. A list of suppliers is available upon request.

Help keep our streets clean.

During the winter months we will need our members to help keep the sidewalks clear of leaves, ice and snow. The BIA has a street clean team out two to three times per week but we need your help too. If you have any areas where youÕd like some help please contact the BIA office.

How to Reach Us: @shopcollingwoodvancouver @shopcollingwood @shopcollingwood #300 Ð 3665 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC T: 604.639.4403 E: info@shopcollingwood.ca

Happy Holidays from the Collingwood BIA

W: shopcollingwood.ca

12

December 2020

RENFREW COLLINGWOOD COMMUNITY NEWS

Taxation on federal pandemic benefits

by Ann Wong

It has certainly been a time of huge economic intervention by our federal government. Let’s look at some of the programs that were launched and what that means as you tie up your financial loose ends for 2020.

Many people’s incomes were impacted drastically with no work or reduced earnings. If you were one of them, you likely applied for and received the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) of $2,000 per four weeks up to 28 weeks to a maximum of $14,000.

The last date to apply for it is December 2, 2020, but it will pay

retroactively until September 26, 2020. This income was fully paid out without any taxes deducted.

Take time to tabulate all sources of income for 2020 to set aside taxes owed before the tax deadline on April 30, 2021.

For those of you who are selfemployed and did not qualify for

employment insurance, you may have received the Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB), a taxable benefit of $500 per week, up to a maximum of 26 weeks (September 27, 2020 to September 25, 2021). There is a 10% withholding tax on this benefit. Keep in mind there is a claw back at a rate of $0.50 for each dollar of CRB paid over $38,000 of income. You will have to repay this come taxfiling time.

Towards the second half of the year, the government launched the Canada Recovery Sickness Benefit (CRSB) specifically to help workers and the self-employed who do not have sick leave pay. It paid out $500 per week to a maximum of two weeks if you cannot work due to illness, potential high risk or the need to quarantine.

“Tip: Take time to tabulate all sources of income for 2020 to set aside taxes owed before the tax deadline on April 30, 2021.”

Crafting list...

Gifting list...

Santa's list...

Get on Santa's Nice List this holiday season by Shopping local.

Shopping Collingwood.

The benefit covers September 27, 2020 to September 25, 2021. The 10% tax that is deducted may not be sufficient depending on total income earned for the entire year.

To complement the CRSB, the Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB), a taxable benefit of $500 per week for a maximum of 26 weeks, was launched to allow folks to take time off from work and care for family member(s). Again, there is a 10% withholding tax which may not be enough and you may need to allocate additional funds by April 2021.

If you are some of the fortunate individuals not financially affected by the pandemic, here’s a reminder of some tax incentive figures to keep saving. The 2020 tax free savings account (TFSA) maximum is $6,000 and the registered retirement savings plan (RRSP) limit is 18% of earned income to a maximum of $27,230. For both plans, you can carry forward unused room from previous years. If you are in a position to take advantage of the tax-free and tax-sheltered growth, do it.

Keep calm and carry on. The best strategy is to stay the course. Even better, if you are in a position to help, consider donations to local charities. We know they really need all the help they can get at this time.

Shop local. Shop Collingwood.

Follow us on Instagram for prizes, events and gifting ideas @shopcollingwood

This article is meant for general information only. You should consult your tax and financial professional for specific advice unique to your circumstances. For more information email hello@awsmgroup.com.