Parents of high school students will receive $200 grant from Ford government

The Ford government has put in some measures to help Ontarians deal with the strict 28-day lockdown that will be imposed later this week. This includes a grant of $200 per child for parents of high school students and lower electricity rates, CP24 reports.

The announcement was made by Premier Ford Tuesday during an afternoon news conference. He said that starting January 1, hydro prices will be capped at 8.5 cents per kilowatt hour, which is the provinces off-peak rate. This move, which was also made during the first lockdown, will last for 28 days.

Ford will also expand the Support for Learners program, which will now be available for the parents of high school students. Those eligible will receive a one-time payment of $2oo per child. The program was previously only available for the parents of children under the age of 12.

“My friends we will do whatever we can to support you, we will spare no expense. But we need your help as well,” said Ford. “Don’t go to parties or social gatherings and don’t gather with people outside of your household, especially over the holidays.”

Ontario's new strict province wide lockdown includes massive school closures which will see elementary schools closed until January 11, and high schools closed until January 25.

Parents can apply for the expanded program between January 11 and February 9. Those with children under 12 can already apply and have until January 15 to do so.