The Voices COVID Support Fund is currently closed.
Who can access the Voices COVID Support Fund?
Youth who have been in Child and Family Services care (alumni of care) in Manitoba, ages 18 to 33 years. Priority will be given to those alumni of care who are not connected to other financial supports. Priority will also be given to first-time applicants.
What is the fund for?
Emergency Covid-19 related expenses may include:
- Support for exceptional household costs and expenses
- Transportation, communication and connectivity
- Exceptional child-related needs (supplies, activities)
- Clothing, Personal Protective Equipment, Winter/ Seasonal items, work gear
- Groceries, hygiene products, household, pet and cleaning supplies
- Supplies for activities, hobbies, and healthy choices
- Supplies to support education and e-learning
What is not covered?
The emergency funds are not for outstanding debts (ie. credit card, loans, liens), tuition/ course fees or personal savings. This assistance cannot be the same as from another source. EIA will allow a maximum of $500 from the COVID Support Fund. Overpayments can result in claw-backs of duplicate assistance, causing future problems. If you are not sure, please ask us!
How much can I ask for?
You can request up to $500 from the support fund. Please be specific in your request, and remember to ask for what you need, so that funds will be available to others.
What information do I need to provide?
You will need confirm that you are alumni of CFS care, and provide contact information if you are on an Agreement with Young Adult (AYA) or Employment and Income Assistance. We will only contact those people with your knowledge and consent, and only for the purpose of this support. You will be asked for some details about your needs, and will be expected to keep receipts and other information in case this is required later.
As part of requesting and receiving support during these challenging times, we ask that you:
Be Healthy: Use the money you receive to keep you in a healthy space, physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.
Be Safe: Use the money you receive in ways that promote your safety and the safety of others.
Be Heard: Please don’t sit in silence if you are struggling. Use your voice to speak up for yourself and ask for what you need.
Be Yourself: If what you need is not in the list above, do not hesitate to ask anyway. You are your own best advocate, and you know what you need. We’re here to help.