A Message from AFKA’s CEO – Melissa Jones (March 1, 2024)
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:
- 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).