Resources for uncertain times

We have put together a set of helpful resources for Job Search in uncertain times, Video Interviewing, Working remotely, Government relief supports, Wellbeing services during this uncertain time of social distancing. Click on each tab to learn more.

If you have questions pertaining to your academics or other services and supports on campus, please visit York University’s information page at https://yubettertogether.info.yorku.ca/

Video Interviewing

Do you have a job interview coming up? Most likely it will be online via Zoom, Skype, over the phone, or perhaps using other social media platforms. Video job interviews are becoming increasingly popular during recent times, so it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself and be prepared. These resources provide some great tips on how to prepare and conduct successful video interviews:

LinkedIn Learning Courses:

Articles:

Government relief supports

Canada Student Loan payments

The government will pause the repayment of Canada Student Loans for six months, with no accrual of interest for the period of March 30, 2020– September 30, 2020. Students do not need to apply for the repayment pause.

Tax payment deferral

For individuals, the return filing due date will be deferred until June 1, 2020. However, the CRA is encouraging individuals who expect to receive benefits under the GSTC or the Canada Child Benefit not to delay the filing of their return to ensure their entitlements for the 2020–21 benefit year are properly determined.

Changes to EI sickness benefits

Individuals claiming EI sickness benefits due to quarantine will not have to provide a medical certificate. You can apply online through the Service Canada website.

Social assistance

Ontario is expanding access to existing Emergency Assistance, to help those who do not qualify for federal emergency financial supports. You can apply for Ontario Works Emergency Assistance online or through local Ontario Works offices.

Increased GST credit

There will be a one-time special payment for low- and modest-income families, doubling maximum annual GST credit payment amounts for 2019–2020 benefit year. In most cases, all you have to do to receive the GST/HST credit each year is file your taxes, even if you have no income to report. If you are a new resident of Canada, follow these steps.

Increased Canada Child Benefit (CCB)*

Eligible recipients will receive $300 more per child with their regular May CCB payment. If you have previously applied for the CCB, you do not need to reapply, or you can apply for the first time through the CRA My Account.

Emergency Support Benefit

If you have lost income because of COVID-19, the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) will provide you with temporary income support. The CERB will provide you with $500 a week for up to 16 weeks.

Mental health and well-being services for students (on and off-campus)

Student Counselling & Development (SCD)

This unit helps York students to realize, develop and fulfill their personal potential in order to maximally benefit from their university experience and manage the challenges of university life.

Big White Wall

Big White Wall a free online mental health and wellbeing service offering self-guided programs and creative outlets that includes a space to express, connect, learn and remain anonymous.

York University Psychology Clinic (YUPC)

YUPC is a community mental health and training centre associated with the Department of Psychology in the Faculty of Health. The clinic utilizes the latest knowledge on effective assessment and treatment. The clinic provides a range of leading edge, effective mental health services to keep people of all ages living healthy, productive lives.

Student Accessibility Services (SAS)

Student Accessibility Services provides educational support to students with documented disabilities in accordance with the Ontario Human Rights Code and York Senate Policy on Academic Accommodation for Students with DisabilitiesYork University Psychology Clinic (YUPC)

YUPC is a community mental health and training centre associated with the Department of Psychology in the Faculty of Health. The clinic utilizes the latest knowledge on effective assessment and treatment. The clinic provides a range of leading edge, effective mental health services to keep people of all ages living healthy, productive lives.

Location: Behavioral Sciences Building, Reception Room 104
Hours: Monday - Friday: 9:00 a.m - 6:30 p.m; appointments can be arranged outside these hours
Email:yupc@yorku.ca
Phone: 416-650-8488

Health Education & Promotion

Health Education and Promotion is a team of York students and staff that collaboratively work with on and off-campus stakeholders to create a community that supports students’ health and well-being.

Learning Skills Services (LSS)

Learning Skills Specialists are available to assist students who would like to find strategies to manage their time more effectively, stay on top of their studies, prevent problems later on in the term, and get the most out of their university experience.

GradConnect Wellness Services

GradConnect Wellness Services aims to support and enhance the mental health and well-being of York University graduate students as they pursue their academic goals through the development and implementation of resources, services, and supports designed to help graduate students connect with their wellness.

Centre for Human Rights Equity and Inclusion

CHREI receives and processes human rights concerns and complaints brought forward by York students, faculty, and staff.

The Centre for Sexual Violence Response, Support & Education (The Centre)

The Centre for Sexual Violence Response, Support & Education (The Centre) coordinates supports and resources for all members of the community that have experienced sexual violence, receives disclosures and complaints, facilitates safety planning, and assists survivors through the complaint process.

Other confidential community resources for all members of the York community

Toronto Distress Centres at (416) 408-4357 or 408-HELP (torontodistresscentre.com)

Connex Ontario Mental Health Helpline at 1-866-531-2600 (mentalhealthhelpline.ca).