The Provincial Government recognizes that the overall costs of living for people are currently high throughout Newfoundland and Labrador and across the country. To help address these immediate pressures, the Honourable John G. Abbott, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development, announced a five per cent increase in the Income Support basic rate effective on November 1, 2022, for those receiving Income Support.
Meanwhile, the Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development is reviewing the Income Support program, which provides basic benefits for food, shelter and necessities, as well as some supplementary benefits such as vision care to approximately 20,500 eligible households throughout the province. Recommendations with respect to the Income Support benefit structure and rates, as well as the financial eligibility and assessment are anticipated to come out of the review.
Through an amendment to the Income and Employment Support Regulations, the five per cent increase in Income Support basic rates will give some help with the high costs of food, clothing and other necessities.
The increase in the Income Support basic rate also supports several ongoing initiatives, including the recommendations of the Health Accord, and responds to what is being heard during the current public engagement process to inform the development of a Social and Economic Well-Being Plan for Newfoundland and Labrador.
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“To help respond to people in low income who are experiencing financial burdens stemming from the high cost of living, I am pleased to announce a five per cent increase in Income Support basic rates for those receiving Income Support. As we continue to work through recommendations of Health Accord NL, I remain committed to furthering social and economic well-being throughout Newfoundland and Labrador, which includes reducing poverty and exploring various ways to increase incomes, especially for those below the poverty line.”
Honourable John G. Abbott
Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development
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Michelle Hunt Grouchy
Children, Seniors and Social Development
709-729-5148, 682-6593
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