Saskatchewan is announcing some new benefits for Ukrainian refugees who have come to Saskatchewan through the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel.

That includes expanding eligibility for the Child Basic Benefit under the Saskatchewan Income Support program and the Transitional Benefit for Children under the Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability.

"The Government of Saskatchewan continues to support Ukrainian newcomers and help them settle into life in our province," Social Services Minister Gene Makowsky said. "Expanding the Child Basic Benefit to eligible Ukrainian families will provide them with the additional support they need to take care of their families during a very challenging time in their lives."

Eligible families will be able to receive the Child Basic Benefit or Transition Benefit for Children until they qualify for the federal Canada Child Benefit.

"There is currently a lengthy delay and additional requirements imposed on displaced Ukrainians arriving under CUAET by the federal government before they can access the federal Canada Child Benefit," Makowsky said. "This adds hardship for Ukrainian families. The Government of Saskatchewan is disappointed that the Canada Child Benefit is not being provided by the federal government until they reside in Canada for 18 months, as this is an essential program for all families living in Canada."

As well, they made amendments to legislation to ensure that all Ukrainian school-aged students arriving through the emergency travel program receive tuition-free Kindergarten to Grade 12 education.

To date, more than 400 students from Ukraine enrolled through the program have registered in Saskatchewan schools.

"I am pleased with how our province has been able to welcome Ukrainian citizens dealing with unimaginable circumstances to Saskatchewan," Education Minister Dustin Duncan said. "Providing tuition-free education for these students is an essential step to ensuring these newcomers are able to settle as easily and comfortably as possible."