The B.C. government is pouring money into infection prevention in seniors care homes, which have become the front lines in the battle against the coronavirus.
The province has partnered with the BC Care Providers Association to launched EquipCare BC, a $10 million program to enhance sanitization and improve the quality of life and safety in more than 440 long-term care and assisted living facilities.
"Seniors and residents of long-term care and assisted living homes are the most vulnerable due to complications associated with COVID-19," said Adrian Dix, Minister of Health.
"Our goal is to ensure that both residents and health-care workers are protected to the maximum extent possible."
Provincial health officer Dr. Bonnie Henry announced today (April 3) another outbreak at a Lower Mainland care home, bringing the total to 22 impacted facilities across B.C.
Twenty-four of B.C.’s 34 COVID-19 deaths have occurred at the Lynn Valley Care Centre and Haro Park Complex Care Centre in Vancouver.
The program will fund the purchase of items like outbreak carts and mobile hand-hygiene sinks, touchless towel and soap dispensers, and safe handling equipment for waste and laundry.
"We are committed to protecting our seniors and elders during this critical time of COVID-19," said Ronna-Rae Leonard, Parliamentary Secretary for Seniors.
"This program will further equip long-term care and assisted living residences with the tools to enhance safety measures for seniors and caregivers in these residences."
BCCPA will administer the program and accept applications from facilities beginning on Saturday (April 4).
