Canadian government announces financial aid for Palestinians fleeing Gaza

Palestinians fleeing the crisis in Gaza and arriving in Canada will be eligible for transitional financial assistance.

Marc Miller, Canada’s minister of immigration, refugees and citizenship, announced the financial aid today.

A release from the federal government says it will assist Gazans in meeting their basic needs – food, clothing and housing – as they arrive in Canadian communities and find jobs.

“We remain deeply committed to supporting Palestinians during the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and are concerned about the well-being of all people in the region,” noted Miller.

“Providing settlement and financial support is critical to addressing the immediate challenges faced by Gazans finding safety in Canada.”

Miller added: “We will continue to help those seeking refuge live and thrive in communities across the country while advocating for everyone’s safety.”

Beyond the financial assistance, Gazans who are fleeing the conflict between Israel and Hamas will have access to the following supports upon arrival in Canada:

• Three months of temporary health coverage under the Interim Federal Health Program to help address urgent medical needs upon arrival.
• Settlement services such as language training, information about and orientation to life in Canada (such as help enrolling children in school or opening a bank account), and information and services to help them find a job.
• The ability to apply for fee-exempt study or open work permits from within Canada.

According to the federal government, 4,245 applications have been accepted into processing under the temporary resident pathway for Palestinian extended family in Gaza in the first year of the crisis.