Social Programs - Social Assistance Program

Provides financial assistance to eligible individuals and families to help pay for basic needs. A financial need is when basic needs cost more than income.

Basic Needs:

• Food
• Clothing
• Household items
• Telephone or internet costs
• Shelter
• Utilities (power, heat, fuel, and water)
• Financial supports to meet emergency needs of people experiencing family violence

Other Needs That May Be Covered:

• Medications and eyeglasses
• Transportation Costs
• Security deposits for rent or utilities
• Child care

Expenses Not Covered:

• Cable television
• Car payments and/or car insurance payments
• Other outstanding debts

Social Assistance clients are automatically enrolled in the Financial Assistance Drug Program and Provincial Dental Care Program. If a need is not listed, contact the office; they will direct you to appropriate programs or assess for social assistance eligibility.

Note: Social Assistance will ask clients to have looked into all possible ways to receive money. For example, Employment Insurance (EI) or Canada Pension Plan (CPP).