News Releases

Durham Region declares state of emergency

Whitby, Ontario – Today, John Henry, Regional Chair and Chief Executive Officer made the following statement:

“Today, based on information collected over the last few days and in consultation with the Chief Administrative Officer, Regional Emergency Control Group, Regional Medical Officer of Health and Durham Emergency Management, I am declaring a State of Emergency in the Region of Durham.

This is a critical time in our efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19. Cases are climbing across Durham Region....

Durham Region Health Department confirms COVID-19-related death of local resident

CORRECTION: PLEASE NOTE THAT THE INFORMATION BELOW HAS BEEN UPDATED TO REFLECT THAT A FEMALE RESIDENT PASSED AWAY, NOT A MALE AS ORIGINALLY REPORTED.

Whitby, Ontario - Durham Region Health Department has received confirmation of the Region’s first COVID-19-related death. The individual, a female in her 90s, was a resident at Hillsdale Terraces in Oshawa, and was recently confirmed positive for COVID-19. The individual passed away on March 23 after being transferred from Hillsdale Terraces to Lakeridge...

Supporting vulnerable populations in Durham Region during COVID-19

Whitby, Ontario – Amid the COVID19 situation, the Durham Region Social Services Department is working with community partners to ensure support continues for those who need it most.

Community resources

A new web page, durham.ca/CommunityResources, compiles a list of local resources available for vulnerable and marginalized individuals in the community. If you are worried about your income, shelter, food security, mental health, or transportation, please visit this website. This resource will be...

Durham Economic Task Force forms to support local businesses through COVID-19

Whitby, Ontario – As the COVID-19 crisis has forced some businesses to close their doors, a new task force has been formed to connect with key stakeholders across the Region and respond to the urgent needs of businesses.

The Durham Economic Task Force came together rapidly last week when reports of business impacts were just beginning. It is a collaborative response team made up of Durham Region’s Economic Development and Tourism team; Business Advisory Centre of Durham; all of Durham’s chambers of...

Supporting workers and their families in Durham Region during COVID-19

Whitby, Ontario – As Durham Region’s community and economy face challenging times, The Regional Municipality of Durham is reassuring residents that their health and safety remains the top priority, as resources are being poured into the COVID-19 response. The situation continues to evolve and is constantly being re-evaluated by the Region.

Based on the provincial order issued today, asking businesses to close, there will be major impacts to business owners, workers and families. The Region’s Economic...