The Provincial Government recognizes the overall cost of living for people currently throughout NL and across the country.
To help address these immediate pressures, Honorable John C. Abbot, Minister of Children, Seniors, and Social Development, announced a 5% increase in the Income Support basic effective on Tuesday, November 1st for those receiving Income Support.
Meanwhile, the Department of Children, Seniors and Social Development is reviewing the Income Support Program, which provides for food, shelter, and necessities, as well as some supplementary benefits such as vision care to approximately 20,500 eligible households across the province.
Through an amendment to the Income and Employment Support Regulations, the 5% increase in Income Support basic rates will give some help with the high cost 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 public engagement process to inform the development of a Social and Economic Well Being Plan for NL.
“To help to respond to people in low income who are experiencing financial burdens stemming from the high cost of living, I am proud to announce the 5% 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 social and economic well-being throughout NL, which reduces poverty and exploring various ways to increase incomes, especially for those below the poverty line “, said John C. Abbot, Minister of Children, Seniors and Social Development.