Ontario Universities Are Giving Students Money To Help Them Pay Their Bills

With universities across the province shutting down, students are now being asked to move out of residences and take classes online. As many try to adjust to the new way of life, universities have announced they will be offering Ontario emergency funds for students that will help during these trying times.

Universities and colleges such as Fanshawe, Toronto,  Waterloo, Ryerson, George Brown and Humber have all announced that they will be offering funds for students who are currently being financially affected by COVID-19.  

The University of Toronto announced on March 17 that they would be offering an "emergency grant" to all domestic and international undergraduate students who are in need. 

Fanshawe, located in London, Ontario, also announced on April 9 that it would be providing financial assistance during the provincial lockdown.

In the statement, the college revealed that the fund was meant to provide "short-term support" to students who have found themselves in financial stress during these trying times.

Students from Ryerson University can receive $200 to $1,000 in relief funds, depending on the student's needs, according to their website. 

Groceries, internet and rent are included as eligible expenses in order to help students pay bills. 

However, students are being asked to only apply for the minimal amount that they would need to ensure funds are distributed as fairly as possible.

Waterloo is also assuring its students that additional funding is on its way to those who need it. 

"This new normal of physical distancing means some of our students are facing financial challenges. These students need our collective support during this difficult time," Waterloo president Feridun Hamdullahpur said in an April 6 news release.

However, it's not just universities that are showing their support for students during the pandemic. 

Premier Doug Ford announced back in March that his government would ensure that students would not "have to worry" about their finances during the COVID-19 situation.

Due to this, OSAP payments are being temporarily suspended until the end of September. 

During this time, Ontarians will not have to make any payments on their loans, and no additional interest will be charged. 

The Ministry of Colleges and Universities also stated it would be ensuring that students could continue their education through online learning supports, which would help classes take their year-end exams digitally.