WINNIPEG -- The province is now accepting applications for a wage support program designed to get Manitobans vaccinated and back to work. The Healthy Hire Manitoba Program was first announced in late June and intends to help private-sector businesses reopen while encouraging employees to get fully vaccinated. “The goals of this program benefit employers, employees and Manitobans alike,” Economic Development and Jobs Minister Ralph Eichler said in a statement. “It increases staffing levels and brings more employees back to work to provide Manitobans with the goods and services they depend on.” Employers can apply for up to $50,000 in provincial support through the program. The funding subsidies 50 per cent of wages for up to 10 new or re-hired employees – with a maximum of $5,000 per employee.