Great news to make life more affordable.
The provincial government is implementing affordability measures intended to help New Brunswickers facing tough financial times.
Social Development Minister Jill Green said the measures provide assistance for those who need it most.
“This government recognizes that many New Brunswickers are having a tough time making ends meet,” said Green. “We know low-income New Brunswickers cannot wait any longer for the assistance they need, and these initiatives ensure they can access that assistance right away.”
The measures being implemented are:
-A $200 Low-Income Seniors’ Affordability Supplement to recipients of the Low-Income Seniors’ Benefit for the 2023 benefit year. This supplement, which is in addition to the existing $400 Low-Income Seniors’ Benefit, will remain in place until the Low-Income Seniors’ Benefit is permanently increased to $600.
-A policy change for spousal contributions to facility-based care to ensure at least 60 per cent of the household income remains with the spouse at home, effective in January.
-A monthly $200 household supplement for social assistance recipients and youth engagement services recipients to help with the rising cost of food and shelter, effective in February.
“We want to continue to support our seniors and allow them to age with dignity, on their own terms,” said Kathy Bockus, minister responsible for seniors. “New Brunswick seniors who are in their own homes and have a loved one in long-term care, or who need a little extra help with their household bills, will not have to wait for the assistance they need.”
The Department of Social Development will spend an additional $19.4 million in 2023-24 on these initiatives. The full-year cost associated with these measures is $65 million starting in 2024-25.
