Budget Bulletin: Help for Families and Children

Children living in poverty are a national problem, and Nova Scotia is no exception. For Nova Scotian families who are trapped by dependence on social assistance, help to find their way into the workforce will address the root of the problem. But the government believes a more immediate response is also called for.

Beginning in August 2000, families on social assistance will receive additional benefits in time to help their children get ready for the return to school. On the August social assistance cheques, there will be $100 for every child over the age of 13, and $50 for children aged 12 and under.

Additionally, the province is expanding early intervention programs to help children with developmental disabilities. Through early intervention, and one-on-one attention, children, from birth to five years old, will get the help they need to reach their full potential. An additional $615,000 in the budget for this program alone will allow its expansion to areas of the province not currently covered.

The Direct Assistance Program is now exclusively for families with children. Benefits available to qualifying those families have, as a result, doubled from $125 to $250.

NOTE: For other 2000-01 budget information, visit the Department of Finance website at www.gov.ns.ca/finance .