Ontario announces job and income support, free education for Ukrainian refugees

The Province of Ontario announced a number of supports for Ukrainian families arriving under the new federal emergency travel authorization on Wednesday.

The programs cover job support, health care, education and housing.

Jobs

A dedicated hotline (1-888-562-4769) as well as email address (ukrainianjobs@ontario.ca) has been created to help connect new arrivals to job search supports and local employers.

“Our government will always embrace newcomers to the province, particularly at a time when we need more people to help fill in-demand jobs and especially the brave people fleeing the unjust war in Ukraine,” said Premier Doug Ford in a release. “As families arrive from Ukraine, we’re making sure the resources and supports are in place to help them find meaningful employment while also keeping them safe and healthy.”

Healthcare

“Our government stands in solidarity with the Ukrainian community as we come together to help Ukrainians who have fled their homeland. That’s why we have taken action to ensure those coming to Ontario can access publicly funded health care,” said Health Minister Christine Elliott

Ukrainian newcomers will have access to OHIP coverage, including mental health services. Drug benefits will also be available through OHIP or emergency income assistance.

Education

Ukrainian elementary and secondary school students will be able to attend publicly funded schools for free.

A new $1.9-million Ontario-Ukraine Solidarity Scholarship will help support those studying in Ontario’s publicly assisted colleges and universities, who were admitted to Canada on an emergency basis for humanitarian reasons.

The province’s Second Career program will provide financial support — for those who apply and are eligible — of up to $28,000 for basic living allowances, tuition, transportation and other needs.

Housing

New arrivals from Ukraine will have access to emergency housing through settlement service agencies and Ukrainian community organizations. Host homes and other temporary settings will be available until more permanent, long-term arrangements are made.

Other supports

The province is investing $449,000 in Canadian-Ukrainian community organizations to provide trauma-informed, culturally responsive supports to students and families. The funds will also go towards “the promotion of intercultural understanding and awareness of Ukrainian stories and history,” the province said in the release.

In addition, Ontario is providing the Canadian Ukrainian Immigrant Aid Society with an increase of $900,000 over three years to deliver targeted settlement services.