Thursday, July 9, 2026 Every July, a wave of federal benefit payments resets for the new benefit year — and 2026 brings one of the biggest shifts in years. Between a permanent 25% boost to the old GST/HST credit, a fresh Canada Child Benefit increase, and the largest quarterly OAS bump of the year, millions of Canadian households will see different numbers land in their accounts this month. Here's what actually changed, and what to check in your own CRA account. The GST/HST Credit Has a New Name — and a Bigger Payout The GST/HST credit has officially been replaced by the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit (CGEB) . It's not a new program from scratch — it runs on the same CRA infrastructure and eligibility rules — but the payment amounts are 25% higher, and that increase is locked in for five years. The first CGEB payment went out on July 3, 2026. Under the new structure: A single individual with no children can receive up to roughly $679 per year (about $170 per quart...
Tragedy in Valencia: Floods Claim 205 Lives, Sparking Anger and Calls for Aid
Three days after devastating flash floods swept through towns in Spain’s Valencia region, the death toll has risen to 205, with 202 victims from Valencia alone. The initial shock is now giving way to anger and frustration as residents grapple with the aftermath of Spain’s deadliest natural disaster in living memory.
The floods, which began on Tuesday, have left streets blocked by vehicles and debris, trapping some residents in their homes. Many areas are still without electricity, running water, or stable telephone connections. The damage is reminiscent of a tsunami, with survivors mourning lost loved ones and struggling to rebuild their lives.
Local authorities and emergency services are working tirelessly to search for missing persons, many feared to be trapped in wrecked vehicles or flooded garages. The mayor of Chiva, Amparo Fort, described the situation as “unbelievable” and called for more machinery and aid to access affected sites.
Residents like Emilio Cuartero from Masanasa have voiced their desperation, highlighting the urgent need for basic supplies such as bread and water. The community’s resilience is evident as they come together to clear debris and support one another, but the scale of the disaster has left many feeling overwhelmed and in need of greater assistance.
As the region continues to recover, the solidarity among the people of Valencia offers a glimmer of hope amidst the devastation.
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