In response to the ongoing humanitarian crisis resulting from the conflict between Israel and Hamas, Canada has stepped up its support for Palestinians fleeing Gaza. On October 16, 2024, Immigration Minister Marc Miller revealed that Gazans arriving in Canada will receive transitional financial assistance to help cover basic needs such as food, clothing, and housing. This initiative is part of Canada’s broader commitment to assist those displaced by the conflict, alongside additional measures aimed at ensuring their safety and well-being once they arrive.
Support for Gazans Arriving in Canada
The Canadian government has recognized the urgent needs of Palestinians affected by the escalating conflict in Gaza. As part of its response, Canada will provide transitional financial aid to those arriving from Gaza, ensuring that they have the resources necessary to meet their immediate basic needs. Whether arriving through the temporary immigration pathway or as regular temporary resident visa holders, Gazans will be able to access this critical support.
Key Measures Include
Financial Assistance: To help meet immediate basic needs such as food, housing, and clothing.
Temporary Health Coverage: Gazans will receive three months of health coverage through the Interim Federal Health Program to address any urgent medical needs.
Settlement Services: These services include language training, guidance on enrolling children in school, opening bank accounts, and finding employment in Canada.
Work and Study Permits: Eligible individuals will be able to apply for fee-exempt open work permits or study permits from within Canada.
Addressing Urgent Humanitarian Needs
Canada’s commitment to aiding Gazans reflects the country’s broader efforts to address the humanitarian crisis. As of October 5, 2024, more than 4,000 applications have been processed under a special temporary resident pathway created for extended Palestinian families in Gaza. So far, 334 individuals have already arrived in Canada under this policy, with more expected to follow as the situation permits. The Canadian government is actively working with local and international authorities to facilitate the exit of more Gazans from the region.
In addition to financial and settlement support, Canada has allocated $140 million in humanitarian assistance to provide urgent aid to those affected by the conflict. This funding will be used to deliver food, water, medical assistance, and other critical services in Gaza, the West Bank, Israel, and neighboring areas.
Canada’s proactive response to the Gaza crisis demonstrates a commitment to providing both immediate and long-term support for those affected. By offering financial assistance, health coverage, and settlement services, Canada aims to ease the transition for Gazans as they begin new lives in communities across the country. These efforts highlight Canada’s ongoing dedication to humanitarian aid and its role in helping displaced individuals find safety and stability.
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