Update from AFKA March 7, 2024
New FAQ document here. Not all information, specifically the actual rate increase, has been shared at this point as these are details still being worked on prior to sharing with caregivers. The FAQ document has been shared to provide some clarity on where things are at for the moment. Please feel free to share with fellow caregivers,
A Message from AFKA’s CEO – Melissa Jones (March 1, 2024)
Yesterday, February 29 2024, I was invited to attend the budget briefing for Alberta’s 2024 Budget Release. We are very pleased to announce the Alberta Government is investing in increases to caregivers rates over the next 3 years. The total amount to be invested in this support is $22 million, divided over the next 3 years, based on the Consumer Price Index. The actual amounts for this year will be provided prior to June 2024 when the new rates will come into effect. I will provide this information to everyone the moment we receive it.
AFKA and ALIGN Association of Community Services have both been advocating on behalf of caregivers for this increase for many years. I’m also certain any additional advocacy caregivers have conducted on their own, in groups, and with AFKA or Align, has had a positive impact in the Ministry hearing the needs for this change. Congratulations to everyone on the results of the hard conversations you’ve had and persistence in communicating your needs. I believe with the status of Alberta’s 2024 Budget, caregivers are fortunate to have been included in services that are receiving an increased investment from the government.
I would also like to remind everyone of the announcement of additional funding for supports to caregivers in October 2023 (i.e. 5 counselling sessions for caregivers, continued funding for caregivers supporting young adults through TAP, and referral incentives). Another change announced was an increase by the Government of Alberta (GoA) to the Alberta Travel, Meal and Hospitality Expenses Directive, effective December 1, 2023. As a result, the Caregiver Rate Schedule has been updated to align with the changes, outlined below:
- The vehicle mileage rate will increase from $0.505 to $0.550 per kilometre.
- The meal allowance will increase:
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- from $9.20 to $13.00 for breakfast
- from $11.60 to $17.00 for lunch; and
- from $20.75 to $27.00 for dinner.
AFKA also received important information for caregivers from Jerry Mortensen, Executive Director, Youth in Transition, Children and Family Services, regarding TAP (Transition to Adulthood Program). Please follow this link to view the letter received with more information
Also See
ALIGN Budget & Government Engagement
Alberta Budget & Sector Engagement