Mississauga City Council honoured the City’s COVID Heroes, a group of individuals, businesses and organizations that have contributed to the community in a fundamental way during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nominations opened in February for the program, which focused on recognizing those living and working in Mississauga that made life a little brighter for their neighbours since the start of the global pandemic. More than 600 nominations were received.

“We have all been deeply impacted by COVID-19 over the past year. And while it continues to be an incredibly challenging time, we felt it was so important to highlight the many positive actions that individuals, businesses and groups have taken over the past year to support those in our community most in need,” said Mayor Bonnie Crombie. “The acts of kindness and generosity in our city since the onset of COVID-19 have been remarkable. I’m honoured, humbled and proud to recognize the massive contributions of our exceptional Mississauga COVID Heroes. Thank you to our Heroes for your commitment to our great City and a very special thank you to everyone who took the time to nominate them.”

The list of Mississauga COVID Heroes included:

·         frontline workers

·         students who helped older adults better understand technology

·         community groups that provided food and supplies to those in need

·         many residents who have gone above and beyond, including sewing masks for the vulnerable in Mississauga since the start of the pandemic

·         local employers who gave back to the community in many creative and generous ways

A pre-recorded virtual ceremony (insert link to video) honouring Mississauga’s COVID Heroes was shared during the Council meeting. The COVID Heroes virtual ceremony can be viewed here on the COVID Heroes landing page.

In addition, a place-making structure dedicated to all COVID Heroes currently sits on Mississauga Celebration Square and will remain there until the end of 2021. Alongside the place-making structure is a plaque, which highlights the names of all COVID Heroes.