Officials from the province gathered at the Ukrainian Cultural Heritage Village in Lamont County Monday (July 4) to announce more support for Ukrainian refugees. 

Among the attendees were Premier Jason Kenney, associate minister Jackie Armstrong-Homeniuk, minister of children's services Matt Jones, and president of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress-Alberta Provincial Council, Orysia Boychuk.

Beginning July 25, eligible Ukrainians arriving in Alberta will have access to a new program which will provide up to six months of support for expenses, including food, clothing, and shelter.  

Those eligible will receive $745 for a single adult, $1200 for a single adult with one child, and $100 extra per month for each additional child, children's services minister Matt Jones said. 

“By helping with the cost of child care and supporting access to quality child-care programs for Ukrainian parents arriving in Alberta, we are ensuring their children will be safe and that families will have the help they need as they build a new life in our province.” 

Additionally, through the Child Care Subsidy Program, Ukrainian parents can apply for six months of funding to cover the cost of licensed childcare. Funding amounts will mirror the federal $10 per day childcare agreement with the province.  

“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,” said Armstrong-Homeniuk.

The province will work with local community organizations to assist newcomers accessing these programs. A reference guide is available for newcomers at alberta.ca/Ukraine.

In addition to the latest announcement, the government has provided:

  • $2.2-million for settlement and language services delivered,  
  • $1 million to the Ukraine Humanitarian Appeal, organised by the Ukrainian Canadian Congress and the Canada Ukraine Foundation, to help coordinate and deliver humanitarian aid,  
  • $5 million to the Ukrainian World Congress to equip 5,000 members of the Ukrainian Territorial Defence Force with defensive equipment,  
  • The Canadian-Ukraine Foundation for additional humanitarian aid. 
  • $350,000 to the Ukrainian Canadian Congress-Alberta Provincial Council for their campaign coordinating the air shipment of first aid and defensive equipment to Ukraine.