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The Alberta government faces criticism from disability advocates who claim the province is undermining a federal disability benefit, potentially depriving many individuals of essential financial assistance.
As of June, eligible Canadians can access up to $200 monthly through the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB). However, advocates from Inclusion Alberta assert that this federal assistance is being offset for individuals already receiving the Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH).
“The CDB is designed to provide an additional financial layer, not to replace the provincial assistance,” stated Trish Bowman, CEO of Inclusion Alberta. She expressed disbelief that the province would withdraw a benefit aimed at alleviating poverty for adults with disabilities.
Ashley Stevenson, press secretary for the Ministry of Seniors, Community and Social Services, stated in a response that while the government welcomes the federal support, it takes pride in offering the highest provincial disability benefits in Canada, approximately $1,900 monthly.
Stevenson noted, “The AISH core benefit is $533 more than Ontario’s program, $515 more than Saskatchewan’s, $417 more than British Columbia’s, and $554 more than Manitoba’s.”
Moreover, AISH clients receive an average of more than $400 per month in personal and medical benefits, and Stevenson urged other provinces to enhance their support levels to match Alberta’s.
She assured that the AISH benefit would remain unchanged and would receive an indexed increase of two percent annually. The CDB will be regarded as non-exempt income, which means that AISH recipients would see no change in their overall monthly support.
Veronica Hooper initially felt optimistic about the Canada Disability Benefit, but her spirits were dampened upon learning of its non-exempt status. Her daughter, who qualifies for AISH, would have greatly benefitted from the additional $200.
“Having a little extra could significantly impact basic needs like food and rent,” Hooper emphasized.
She noted her daughter is striving for greater independence, so every financial contribution is crucial. Hooper plans to reach out to the Alberta government and urge federal intervention on this matter.
“I want to ensure this issue doesn’t get overlooked,” she stated.
Zachary Weeks, another disability advocate, expressed frustration with the claims that Alberta provides the highest disability benefits. He pointed out that even the top amounts still leave recipients below the poverty line.
Weeks raised concerns about the sustainability of AISH support moving forward due to recent budget cuts. The 2025 budget allocates approximately $1.6 billion for the AISH program, which marks a $49 million reduction from the previous fiscal year’s expectations.
“The CDB should be honored for its intended purpose, not leveraged to balance the provincial budget,” he stated.
Stevenson responded by asserting that projected budget costs would not influence client income, with AISH expected to support over 80,000 Albertans.
Source
globalnews.ca