The federal government has announced $9 billion in spending to help students through the COVID-19 pandemic.
For students who are not eligible for the Canadian Emergency Response Benefit, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said his government would introduce the Canadian Emergency Student Benefit.
"COVID-19 has meant there aren't as many jobs out there for students. Without a job, it can be hard to pay for tuition or the day-to-day basics," said Trudeau. "You might normally have turned to your parents for help, but right now, Mom and Dad are stretched too."
The benefit will help students pay their rent and buy groceries over the next few months. Between May and August, students going to college or university in September, who graduated in December or are currently enrolled, will receive $1,250 a month. Those with disabilities or who are caring for a dependent will receive $1,750.
The benefit will be open to students who are fortunate to have a job still but make less than $1,000 a month.
Legislation to implement the program will need Parliamentary approval but will kick off May 1.
The federal government also wants to employ jobless students in the fight against COVID-19. It is creating 76,000 jobs across Canada in sectors that are experiencing staffing shortages. The jobs are in addition to the Canada Summer Jobs Program.
Trudeau said his government is still working out the details and should have more information in the coming days, but suggested students could work in agriculture and contract tracing.
"We know young people want and need good summer jobs, and we're going to try to make sure they can get them," said Trudeau.
A second program will help support students who volunteer either to support the fight against the pandemic or to get career experience. The Canada Student Service Grant will award those students between $1,000 and $5,000 depending on how many hours they volunteer.
Of the $9 billion, $291 million will be set aside to extend scholarships, fellowships, and grants for student researchers and graduate students.
Federal education grants for post-secondary school students will also be doubled for the 2020/2021 school year.
