DIFFICULT BUT NECESSARY STEP

As you know, Ontario entered a provincial-wide shutdown starting on December 26, 2020. This difficult yet necessary decision comes after the rise in case numbers in Milton and across Ontario. With a consistent of review the scientific health data and modelling, it showed that our health care system, including intensive care units (ICU), would have become overwhelmed if action was not taken.

Our top priority is to protect the residents of Milton and Ontario by preventing the spread of this virus. On the advice of Ontario’s Chief Medical Officer of Health, this lockdown will help keep you, your loved ones, and our community, safe.

I understand this news is frustrating, but our community has shown outstanding Ontario Spirit. We are making sure no one is left behind, and our heroic front-line and healthcare workers are working tirelessly to provide care for those in need.

As a former small business owner, I know this lockdown is particularly difficult for our small businesses. Our government has introduced the new Small Business Support Grant, providing eligible businesses with a minimum of $10,000 to help them during these tough times. In addition to government support, I am encouraging everyone to continue to shop locally either online or through curbside pick up. 

Through these collective actions, we have found strength in our resiliency, but we must continue to remain vigilant and do whatever we can to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.

Although this Christmas and New Year was celebrated distanced from our extended family, I am hopeful that you had the opportunity to celebrate with those who you live with.

2020 was a difficult year, but 2021 brings us hope that better days are ahead. With vaccines arriving in Ontario, the light at the end of the tunnel grows brighter every day. We have flattened the curve before and together, we will do it again.

From my family to yours, I wish you a healthy, happy, and prosperous New Year!