January 25, 2021
Province Announces Front-Line Workers Benefiting from Additional $19 Million through Caregiver Wage Support Program
– – –More Than 21,000 Workers Supported Through $35-Million Program That Protects Manitobans, Ensures Timely Access to Care: Squires
The Manitoba government has processed more than 20,000 new claims worth $19 million as part of the second intake of the Caregiver Wage Support Program, Families Minister Rochelle Squires announced today.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has placed additional demands on caregivers and they have risen to the challenge to protect our most vulnerable Manitobans,” said Squires. “I am pleased to announce that a total of more than $35 million has been distributed to support these exceptional Manitobans, who continue to provide care to those in need on the front lines of this pandemic.”
The Caregiver Wage Support Program completed its first intake in December 2020, when more than $16.3 million was distributed to 19,400 applicants – each of whom received an average payout of over $850. The minister noted that payments increased with the second intake, as applicants have received an average of $940 each.
“COVID-19 has altered the lives of all Manitobans, but especially those of our front-line workers,” said Health and Seniors Care Minister Heather Stefanson. “Throughout this ongoing pandemic, they continue to care for their fellow Manitobans day in and day out, with expertise and resolve.”
Launched in November, the program has been cost-shared between the Manitoba government and the federal government to recognize low-income and middle-income workers who have been integral in protecting Manitobans during the province’s pandemic response. The Manitoba government has provided $18 million, while the federal government has contributed the remaining $17 million.
Caregivers have received an hourly $5 top-up to their wages based on the number of hours worked during the intake period. The benefit has been paid directly to eligible Manitobans working in 24-7 group care settings including 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.
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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