The Ontario government is offering more financial support to help families with young children during the pandemic.
For the second time since the coronavirus pandemic began, the province is offering families a one-time payment of $200 for each child under the age of 12 to help with the costs of learning and childcare. A one-time payment of $250 is available for children with special needs up to the age of 21.
"During this very difficult period, our parents have been the unsung heroes in the fight against COVID-19, whether it's screening their child before school or assisting them with remote learning," said Premier Doug Ford. "Parents have been there for us, and our government will continue to be there for them. That's why we're providing additional payments to help families with some of the costs of learning and childcare as we battle the second wave of COVID-19."
Parents must apply through the government's website to receive the funding. The application process will remain open until January 15, 2021.
The fund is available to all parents whether their child is attending a private or public school online or in-person, is being homeschooled, is enrolled in child care, or is at home.
"Whether kids are attending school online, in-person, or a mix of both, every parent in Ontario is feeling the strain of COVID-19," said Finance Minister Rod Phillips. "We have heard from parents that new expenses to support their kid's education in this COVID-19 era are straining their pocketbooks.
The government committed $380 million for this Support for Learners fund as part of the latest budget.