Federal government to fund Manitoba self-isolation sites

WINNIPEG—The Government of Canada has announced $8.4 million in funding for COVID-19 safe voluntary isolation sites in Manitoba.

Self-isolation is one of the most effective ways to stop the spread of the virus but crowded housing conditions and high costs can make it impossible or unsafe for some to self-isolate.

“The funding of safe voluntary isolation sites in Manitoba will provide a place to isolate for people who are experiencing vulnerability, including those who are not able to self-isolate at home,” federal Minister of Health Jean-Yves Duclos said in a statement.

“These spaces are an important part of our overall response to COVID-19. Voluntary isolation sites provide an option to people who may not have another option to self-isolate, which allows them to protect themselves, their loved ones, and their community. Together, we can slow the spread of this virus by getting vaccinated, following public health guidance, and by accessing strategic solutions like this one,” Manitoba Minister of Health and Seniors Care Audrey Gordon added.

The Safe Voluntary Isolation Sites Program directly supports cities, municipalities and health regions that are at-risk of COVID-19 community transmission and recipients selected under the program provide an accessible location where people can safely self-isolate for the required period. 

Creation and expansion of sites will occur in Winnipeg, Brandon, The Pas, Thompson and other communities as required. The federal government has provided over $100 million to municipalities and health regions to establish projects in Nova Scotia, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and British Columbia as part of Canada’s rapid response to the spread of COVID-19.