Our people power is working. The federal government just announced they’re looking to close the gaps in the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) — specifically for gig workers, contractors and those who are working fewer hours due to COVID-19. ^[1] 

It’s a really good start, but it doesn’t address all the gaps in the benefit program. There are still massive exclusions, like graduating students or people collecting disability benefits who won’t be able to make ends meet without support. 

These are just some examples. We know that thousands of you have your own story. That’s why we’re asking you to share your story with us so we can send them to Prime Minister Trudeau and splash them all over social media. 

If we can collect and amplify stories about why you, or your loved ones, are excluded from the CERB program as it currently stands, we could convince Prime Minister Trudeau to extend the benefits to everyone who needs them. 

But the government is under pressure to fix the benefits program as soon as possible, so we have to act fast. Will you share your story?

**Please note: stories submitted here may be published online and on social media
 

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Talking points:

• Explain in your own words why the issue is so important to you
• You could tell them why you think it’s important that nobody has to worry about not being able to make ends meet
• If you have a personal story about yourself or someone you know who is excluded, that would go a long way too.
• You could say that you think it’s unfair to exclude thousands of people who need support
• If you don’t have a personal story to share, you could tell the government why you think it’s important that nobody has to worry about making ends meet in the midst of a pandemic
• You could let them know that other countries like Spain have made their basic income program unconditional so that anyone who needs to can access the support