Welfare & Assistance in Canada
Welfare in Canada is governed by individual provincial governments. The federal government assists the provinces with funding, but does not determine how the funding is used. In Canada, anyone who shows financial need is eligible for welfare, also called social assistance or income assistance.
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History
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In 1966, the federal Canada Assistance Plan assisted provinces in handling the the costs of social services. This plan was replaced in 1996 with the Canada Health and Social Transfer, which expanded funds to other resources like health care and education. In 2004, the plan was split into two programs: the Canada Health Transfer and the Canada Social Transfer. The Canada Social Transfer handles social assistance and other social services. As of 2010, this plan is still in effect.
Eligibility
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Any person who has shown he cannot provide for themselves and any dependents is eligible for social assistance. The requirements will vary from province to province. To receive social assistance, the government may ask for evidence from your landlord that you haven't paid rent, bank statements to show you do not have sufficient funds, and any other evidence to show financial hardship.
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Types of Assistance
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Basic assistance is typically known as welfare. It is meant to provide sufficient funds for shelter, food and any other necessary items. The provincial government allots a certain amount to be spent in each region, depending on the cost of living in the area. The amount will vary depending on factors such as the number of dependents in the family.
Special needs assistance goes to people who need extra assistance based on disabilities, age, education and other factors. This assistance is determined case-by-case.
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References
Resources
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