Artists (including writers), creative workers, and newcomers face unique obstacles during the current COVID-19 pandemic.
Many thanks to Myseum and Toronto North Local Immigration Partnership for curating the following information and resources to help us navigate these uncertain times!
- Neighbourhood Arts Network’s COVID-19 Resources for Arts Workers
A list of resources for arts and culture workers whose gigs and incomes have been impacted by COVID-19 related cancellations.
- Centre for Social Innovation’s blog post How to Get Financial Support During COVID-19
Explains how to apply for Employment Insurance (EI) or the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB).
- Apply or donate to the Toronto Arts Council & Toronto Arts Foundation’s TOArtist COVID-19 Response Fund
Their goal is to help as many artists as possible through grants! You can also see updates from Canada Council for the Arts related to COVID-19.
- Toronto East Quadrant Local Immigration Partnership’s (TEQLIP) Programs and Updates for Newcomers related to COVID-19
Includes links to COVID-19 prevention, care, essential services, financial assistance, how to talk to a doctor from home, etc.
- WorkinCulture’s list of Arts & Culture Resources During COVID-19
- Margin of Eras Gallery’s list of Emergency Resources for Marginalized Artists & Communities During COVID-19
Links to mutual aid funds, as well as petitions & letters of action to the government, and appealing for income supports for those in precarious work situations who have lost income due to COVID-19.
- Nia Centre for the Arts’ COVID-19 Resources for Artists
A list of resources that provides information on art-based funding assistance, government supports and daily updates surrounding the evolving nature of COVID-19.
- ArtReach’s COVID-19 Resource List
A list that includes government updates, economic support, health and mental health resources, and job opportunities.
- The Theatre Centre/Summer Works’ COVID-19 Relief Artist & Arts Community Resource Sheet
Includes announcements, financial resources, how to host virtual events, and petitions/opportunities for political action.
- CBC Arts’ article “Here’s where Canadian artists and freelancers can find help during COVID-19 shutdowns”
This article includes emergency funding, advocacy groups, online training resources, health and mental health resources, and temporary/remote job opportunities.
- Read about how the restaurant Little India on Queen Street West is giving away free meals to people in need.
- Join communities of people supporting each other on Facebook!
The CareMongering Toronto group is a space for mutual aid and community care during COVID-19. I Lost my Gig Canada is for vulnerable freelance and gig workers to share stories and resources related to impacts from COVID-19.
If you are looking for entertainment while socially isolating, check out The Social Distancing Festival! This is an online artist’s community made to celebrate and showcase the work of the many artists around the world who have been affected by the need for social distancing that has come about due to the spread of COVID-19.
Toronto North Local Immigration Partnership‘s list of resources available to navigate during these challenging times:
As the world reacts to COVID-19, our perspectives and work as creatives are as valuable as ever. We hope the resources above are helpful.