SmartCentres will be offering rent-free use of its space to help support governments and health care authorities across Canada who are on the front lines of the COVID-19 emergency. 

Up to one million square feet will be available in 200 shopping centres, including its land, parking lots and signage. 

Mitchell Goldhar, executive chairman of SmartCentres, said the properties can be used for an array of needs including, drive-through and/or walk-in assessment centres, clinics, social assistance, overflow hospital services, information centres, and/or other facilities that may assist Canada’s medical system.

“We are not just a Canadian company, we are Canadians,” said Goldhar. “The impulse to help each other is embedded in the DNA of our culture. We will use every means available to us to help each and every one of our fellow Canadians.” 

Lands separately owned in a partnership between Walmart Canada and Goldhar will be made available as well.