QUEEN’S PARK – Leaders Ledger – Over the next few weeks many students from across the region will celebrate their graduation.
I would like to take this opportunity to offer my sincere congratulations to all the students, and their families, who will celebrate this important accomplishment and offer the following assistance to those graduating:
It is not only a time to celebrate the years of hard work and dedication that went into making this moment possible, but also the open road that lies ahead and the many exciting places these paths will take you.
Getting to this point is not always easy, there are many challenges and frustrations that every one of us experiences and graduation is your time to say to the world “I made it,” before looking to the new opportunities ahead.
Whether it’s moving on to a new phase of your education, taking time off to evaluate the many opportunities that are ahead, or making the decision to enter the workforce, this is an exciting time in your life and you have earned the right to celebrate.
Program applications such as those for funding applications, such as OSAP, can sometimes be confusing and filling out the incorrect answer can lead to delays with processing your claim. It is for this reason that I want you to know that my offices are happy to help answer your questions.
For those traveling out-of-province or Canada for school or work, it is very important to ensure your legal documents, such as drivers’ license, birth certificate and Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) card are up-to-date and that you are aware of differing levels of coverage based on your situation, which can leave you without coverage.
While some coverage may continue, you may be responsible for some unexpected costs, such as very expensive ambulance rides outside of Ontario. For instance, an ambulance ride even a few short blocks in Winnipeg can set you back nearly $1000. That is why it is extremely important to be aware not only of your coverage for your new situation, but also that if your situation changes, such as if your parents move outside of Ontario, or if you choose to stay while not attending classes in the community you where you are enrolled in school, you may need to get new legal documents that are issued from another province or territory. Information on these regulations can be found by visiting Service Ontario or one of my community offices.
Universities and colleges are available to help with many of the issues that may arise. But for students and workers alike, it can be very helpful to have the contact information of your federal and provincial government representatives if in Canada, and Canadian consulate office while outside the country. Again, this is information my staff are happy to provide.
Once again, congratulations to you for your continued hard work and dedication. I wish you great success with your future endeavours, wherever they may take you!
Sarah Campbell MPP
Kenora