December 23, 2020
Caregiver Support Program Continues to Recognize Importance of Front-Line Caregivers, Protects Manitobans
– – –Eligible Workers Have Received More Than $16.3 Million in First Intake: Stefanson
The Manitoba government has processed more than 19,400 applications for the first round of the $35-million Caregiver Wage Support Program that recognizes front-line workers who provide direct care and help protect vulnerable Manitobans at personal care homes and other critical settings during the COVID-19 pandemic, Families Minister Heather Stefanson announced today.
“This important front-line work may sometimes go unseen, but that does not mean it goes unappreciated,” said Stefanson. “The dedication and compassion staff show every day is a tribute to how much they care about the people they serve. On behalf of seniors, children in care and people with disabilities or in homeless shelters, we want them to know we value their work.”
The Caregiver Wage Support Program completed its first intake last week. More than $16.3 million, with an average of just over $850 per applicant, has since been distributed. This wage top-up is targeted at Manitobans currently working on the front lines of the pandemic response and providing support for Manitobans in 24-7 group care settings. These include health-care aides, direct service workers, recreation workers, housekeeping staff and others who provide direct care to vulnerable Manitobans at personal care homes or in disability services, child welfare services, homeless and family violence prevention shelters, and long-term care facilities.
Eligible employees receive an hourly $5 top-up to their wages, based on the number of hours worked between Nov. 1, 2020, and Jan. 10, 2021. The second program intake will open Jan. 11, 2021, and remain open until Jan. 18, 2021. The benefit is paid directly to workers by the province in the week after each intake period closes. To qualify, workers must earn a regular wage of $25 per hour or less.
“We are all in this together, and it’s important that we continue to support the people on the front lines of our battle with COVID-19,” said Health, Seniors and Active Living Minister Cameron Friesen. “Their dedication and compassion help many of our most vulnerable citizens get through each day, and their professionalism is helping keep Manitobans safe.”
The Manitoba government has partnered with the federal government in cost-sharing the program, which recognizes low-income and middle-income workers who have been integral in supporting the province’s pandemic response. The Manitoba government is providing $18 million, with the federal government contributing the remaining $17 million.
“Working on the front lines at a retirement residence every day as a screener, an emergency responder, a general point of contact and so much more, the Caregiver Wage Subsidy Program is really appreciated,” said Bonnie Lobban, Rotary Villas Brandon. “It gives me and my colleagues sort of a pat on the back for the work we have been doing during these uncertain times and assists in planning for the unknown. I only have so many holidays or sick time to use, so being able to save a bit more for the worst-case scenario during this pandemic is an amazing feeling.”
Additional information on the Caregiver Wage Support Program, including information on how workers can register, is online at https://manitoba.ca/covid19/programs/caregiver-wage-support.html.
The Manitoba government is taking strong action to protect Manitobans and to ensure timely access to care. For more information on COVID-19 in Manitoba, visit www.manitoba.ca/COVID19.
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