Frequently asked questions:
The refugee system

Financial support for government-assisted refugees

Why do government-assisted refugees receive a one-time start-up payment?

The one-time start-up payment covers:

• Basic household needs—To buy basic furniture, including a bed, table and chairs, bed linens, basic window coverings, and common household products such as kitchen utensils, pots and pans, and brooms.
• Staple allowance—To buy items to set up a household, such as food staples (flour, sugar, condiments, etc.) and cleaning/living items (laundry detergent and cleaning products).
• Clothing allowance—To pay for the most basic clothing needs.
• Winter clothing allowance—To pay for a winter coat, boots, hat, etc. (This clothing may be provided to refugees on their entry to Canada if they arrive during the winter months.)