Alberta adding new supports for Ukrainian refugees

Ukrainians and their families seeking refuge in Alberta after fleeing war in their home country due to Russia’s invasion will get new supports from the province.

Premier Jason Kenney made the announcement alongside officials on Monday morning.

“Millions of Ukrainians have had to drop everything and flee in the wake of Russia’s illegal invasion,” Kenney said. “Alberta’s government moved quickly to offer access to health care, child care, education, emergency financial funding, and guidance to get official documents and find work.

“Now we will do even more to help them rebuild their lives here in Alberta with these expanded social supports for Ukrainians seeking refuge here.”

The government says as Ukrainian newcomers find a home in Alberta, it’s adding “up to six months of support for basic expenses like food, clothing and shelter” on July 25.

The welfare-like program will give Ukrainians around $1,000 depending on the family size.

“Ukrainians who are fleeing the violence in their country are not alone,” said Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk, the associate minister of status of women and chair of the Advisory Council on Alberta-Ukraine relations.

“By helping with the costs to cover basic needs, we can help Ukrainian newcomers get settled and rebuild. Alberta welcomes Ukrainians and we stand with you during this time.”

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The province adds as a part of the new program, Ukrainian parents of kids 12 years old and under can get six months of funding to cover the cost of licensed child care through the Child Care Subsidy Program.

Kenney says there will be many single-parent families, because men between 18 and 65 often have to stay behind to fight.

“We are grateful to Alberta’s government for the financial income support,” said Orysia Boychuk, the president of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, Alberta Provincial Council. “This is definitely an additional support that was not available to Ukrainian newcomers prior. Everything counts and this will definitely help contribute to the success of the Ukrainian nationals integrating successfully into Canadian society.”

The province also says it’s waving fees and expediting applications for Ukrainians seeking permanent residency in Alberta.

The government adds through this program and others it’s ensuring Ukrainian newcomers can get health coverage, enroll their children in school, get a driver’s license, and access various other community resources.

For more information, head to the province’s website.