Income and Employment Support For Those Who Need it Most

Improvements to the Employment Support and Income Assistance Program will help those Nova Scotians who need it most get support to become more independent and help youth as they become adults.

Some youth on income assistance are now able to access supports and services from both that program and Children, Youth and Family Services. Youth, who are at risk and willing, can receive help in many ways, including therapeutic services and educational and financial support.

The allowable asset levels have doubled for people receiving assistance from $1,000 to $2,000 for individuals and from $2,000 to $4,000 for families.

"Doubling the asset levels will help clients be more independent and included in their communities," said Community Services Minister Joanne Bernard.

Changes to the asset levels will allow people to apply for income assistance without having to exhaust all their savings. It will make it easier for people in the program to save more money and have greater flexibility in how they choose to spend their money.

Government is changing programs to better support vulnerable Nova Scotians and create a more sustainable social support system. Immediate improvements are also being made when possible.