How wildfire evacuees can access federal financial aid amid evacuations
CTV
Wildfire evacuees that have lost their jobs and need to apply for federal employment insurance will have their applications prioritized, according to Canada's Minister of Citizens' Services Terry Beech.
Evacuees that have lost their jobs and need to apply for federal employment insurance will have their applications prioritized, according to Canada's Minister of Citizens’ Services Terry Beech.
Beech made the announcement on Friday, as part of a federal update on the evolving wildfire emergencies in the Northwest Territories and British Columbia.
"If wildfires have caused you to lose your job, I would suggest that you please submit your application for EI benefits right away. Your application will be prioritized based on your postal code and you will not need a record of employment," Beech said.
The EI program offers temporary income support to unemployed workers, and the typical application process is being adjusted to accommodate those applying while displaced from their homes.
For example, applicants can use a mailing address of a friend, family member or temporary shelter in their submission.
And, in order to continue receiving EI, reports are required every two weeks. The federal government is clarifying that as part of that report, applications should not declare any money received from insurance payments, government relief funds, the Red Cross, or other charitable organizations.
Accommodations to facilitate Canadians receiving other federal aid or services are also being offered for employers, seniors, students, temporary foreign workers, and those expecting a new passport.
