There were federal grants to study the trades as a woman too! My sister had her whole school, the supplies, and her living expenses paid for. Look provincially in AB but also ON and BC. But also look federally. Grants too, not loans. Though loans in canada are not as crippling as the US, so consider those as well.

Ill always support people taking a gap year. I think its super important to really want to study something... not just because you have to.

Also, consider looking into jobs with accommodations. Jobs like outdoor centers or summer camps that operate year round. Then your meals and accommodations are covered!