Item Detail

Automatic Payment

Basic Assistance is issued automatically every month based on the Social Assistance Rate and information entered in the system (ex: Household Information, Address, Income, Assets, Health, etc).  Clients will receive their cheques by mail or in their bank account on the first of every month.  When the 1^st is a holiday or a weekend, the client will receive the cheque the business day before. For new clients, the system will issue a cheque automatically overnight after their application was approved.

Manual Fixed Amount

In some cases, assistance payments are manually requested by a Social Development employee if a fixed amount of assistance is to be paid, rather than the system automatically calculating it. Payments would usually be, for example, to transients, Employment Insurance awaiters, mixed payments to third parties on behalf of clients.  The system will not allow the amount to be paid to exceed the amount of assistance to which the case is entitled.

Food

This special benefit is only available to clients who are in a priority group that also demonstrate they are in an emergency situation (unavoidable and unforeseen circumstances).

The client must take advantage of all available resources in the community (i.e. local food bank, soup kitchen, churches, Salvation Army, relatives and friends, etc.) or any other potential resources that may be able to meet their need.

The benefit amount provided must meet the immediate and temporary needs of the client through the emergency time period only. Calculated on a per diem basis, the maximum allowable amount will not exceed 30 per cent of the monthly rate of assistance.
 

Rent, Mortgage or Accommodations

This special benefit is only available to applicants and clients who are in a priority group who also demonstrate they are in an emergency situation (unavoidable and unforeseen circumstances).

The applicant or client must provide confirmation of eviction, foreclosure of mortgage.

In circumstances where the client is in threat of foreclosure of mortgage, this benefit should not be issued more than once.

Use this benefit in situations where an applicant or client is being forced to leave their residence due to an undeclared emergency.

No Social Development Housing (i.e. subsidized rent, public housing, non-profit housing) arrears are to be paid under this benefit.

The client or applicant must take advantage of all available resources in the community (i.e. churches, Salvation Army, relatives and friends, emergency shelters, etc.) or any other potential resources that may be able to meet their need.

The benefit amount provided must meet the immediate and temporary needs of the client or applicant through the emergency time period only.
 

Bulk Fuel

This special benefit (wood or oil) may be available to all clients who meet the eligibility requirements for the regular fuel supplement.  For bulk purchases, a maximum of $145 for the six months of the fuel supplement ($870), or a part thereof depending on date of application, is paid as a one issue benefit, with no retroactive payments. Clients who feel that the amount provided for this benefit is insufficient may be referred to the local Department of Natural Resources office to inquire as to how they may access wood from at minimal prices.

Required Documents:

• Confirmation of rent or mortgage amount and that heat is not included.
• Confirmation with Social Development Housing that no heating allowance was included in the calculation of a loan.
• Estimate for cost of wood or oil.
• Payment will be for the lesser amount of the estimate or the maximum benefit amount of $870.

Electric/Non-Electric

This special benefit may be available to all clients who meet the criteria. Clients who are not entitled are those who:

• are receiving the Income Supplement benefit (clients who are eligible for both the Fuel Supplement and the Income Supplement must decide which benefit they prefer, as both cannot be issued for the same month).
• reside with other people who are not included in their household
• have heating costs included in their rent payment.
• live in the parental home.
• are in a rooming or boarding situation.
• have rental costs less than $100 per month.
• have mortgage costs less than $100 per month.
• are living in "maintenance only" accommodation.
• are in subsidized housing where heating costs are factored into the rent, mortgage or loan payment.
• live in Public Housing where they do not pay their own heating invoice.
• rent from a Non-Profit Housing Group.
• are in the Rent Supplement program (if they receive a heat supplement).
• have a loan with SD - Housing and they receive a heating allowance.

As part of the calculation of the monthly shelter costs, the following may be included:

• Monthly lot rental
• Amount reduced from a client's assistance due to a third party shelter cost payment

Eligible households who heat with electricity (fully or partially) are entitled to the Electric Fuel Supplement of $150 per month. Households who do not heat with electricity are entitled to the Non-Electric Fuel Supplement of $145 per month. The monthly amount is paid as an ongoing benefit with no retroactive payments. It is available from November to April.

Only one benefit is to be provided per household. Where more than one unit exists in a household a decision has to be made regarding who will receive the benefit. An example would be where two blind, deaf or disabled units live in the same household. The cost of heat would be shared between the units for heating or one household and hence only one benefit would be provided. If a separate rental unit exists in the same residence and verification of a separate invoice/bill can be provided (two separate accounts) then more than one benefit would apply.

Required Documents:

• Confirmation of rent or mortgage amount, type of heat, and the fact that heat is not included in the rent/mortgage
• Confirmation with Social Development Housing that no heating allowance is included in the calculation

Emergency Fuel

This special benefit; meant to cover all types of heating, may be provided to any client or applicant in an emergency situation who experiences hardship situations with respect to winter heating costs. Eligible households are permitted to access this emergency once per calendar year. The benefit is intended to be applied to unavoidable and unforeseen situations, or set of circumstances.

The benefit, up to $550 may be provided to:

Clients who:

1. Are in receipt of income support under the Extended Benefits or Transitional Assistance programs.
2. Live in their own home including rental accommodations, that is do not live in the parental home, do not share the unit with other individuals outside the client's household,or in a room and board situation where heat is included.
3. Do not already receive a heating allowance via a subsidized mortgage or loan.
4. Can demonstrate that they are in an emergency situation.

For applicants / non clients who:

1. Can clearly demonstrate they have exhausted all options for payment with the service provider.
2. Can demonstrate that they are in an emergency situation.
3. Have not received an Emergency Benefit in the last calendar year.

Required Documents:

• Confirmation of rent or mortgage payment and heat source
• Confirmation of why the applicant/client is in an emergency situation

Funerals

This benefit may be available to clients and applicants as per the criteria in the Funerals policy. This is the only benefit that can be paid on behalf of a terminated (deceased) client.
 

Appliance And Furniture Repair

This special benefit may be available to clients in priority groups only. Appliances and furniture should be repaired if possible. As a guideline however, if the repair cost is more than half the replacement cost, the article should be replaced. Costs related to service calls should be shared equally between clients and Social Development.

Required Documents:

• One estimate that validates it worth repairing the appliance or furniture. If the client appears to know the problem but requires a repair person to correct it, an estimate is not necessary if this is impossible or costly.

Bed

This special benefit is only available to clients who are in a priority group that also demonstrate they are in an emergency situation (unavoidable and unforeseen circumstances).

Client must take advantage of all available resources in the community (i.e. churches, Salvation Army, relatives and friends, community support groups, classified ads, used furniture, etc.) or any other potential resources that may be able to meet their need.

The first choice should be used items. A new bed should only be purchased when necessary or when the price difference between new and old is less than 20 percent. It is normal procedure, however, to purchase a new mattress. Mattress covers may be purchased to prevent infestation of the mattress by bedbugs. This may help prevent a further emergency. It is recommended that this benefit not be issued more than once.

If purchasing a bed as one of two or more benefits to be issued as part of setting up a household for disaster victim or those leaving abusive situations, choose Household Setup and not this benefit.

Required Documents:

• Written estimates for bed or mattress cover: Two estimates are required for items costing over $200, one estimate if under $200.

Crib

This special benefit is only available to clients who are in a priority group that also demonstrate they are in an emergency situation (unavoidable and unforeseen circumstances). Clients should begin planning to acquire a crib once they are aware of the pregnancy.

The client must take advantage of all available resources in the community (i.e. churches, Salvation Army, relatives and friends, community support groups, classified ads, used furniture, etc.) or any other potential resources that may be able to meet their need.

The first choice should be used items. A new crib should only be purchased when necessary or when the price difference between new and old is less than 20 per cent. It is normal procedure, however, to purchase a new mattress. Parents should be encouraged to purchase cribs that meet Canadian safety standards.

If purchasing a crib as one of two or more benefits to be issued as part of setting up a household for disaster victim or those leaving abusive situations, choose Household Setup and not this benefit.

Required Documents:

• Written estimate: Two estimates are required for items costing over $200; and one estimate if under $200

Kitchen Table and Chairs

This special benefit is only available to clients who are in a priority group that also demonstrate they are in an emergency situation (unavoidable and unforeseen circumstances).

The client must take advantage of all available resources in the community (i.e. churches, Salvation Army, relatives and friends, community support groups, classified ads, used furniture, yard sales, etc.) or any other potential resources that may be able to meet their need.

The first choice should be used items. This benefit should not be issued more than once. If purchasing tables and chairs as one of two or more benefits to be issued as part of setting up a household for disaster victim or those leaving abusive situations, choose Household Setup and not this benefit

Required Documents:

• Estimate: Two estimates are required for repairs costing over $200; and one estimate if under $200. If the client appears to know the problem but requires a repairman to correct it, an estimate is not necessary if this is impossible or costly.

Refrigerator - New

This special benefit is only available to clients who are in a priority group that also demonstrates they are in an emergency situation (unavoidable and unforeseen circumstances).

The client must take advantage of all available resources in the community (i.e. churches, Salvation Army, relatives and friends, community support groups, classified ads, used furniture, etc.) or any other potential resources that may be able to meet their need.

The first choice of purchase should be used items. Refrigerators should be repaired if feasible. As a guideline however, if the repair cost is more than half the replacement cost, the refrigerator should be replaced. A new refrigerator may only be purchased when it is necessary or when the price difference between new and used is less than 20 per cent. This benefit should not be issued more than once.

If purchasing a refrigerator as one of two or more benefits to be issued as part of setting up a household for disaster victim or those leaving abusive situations, choose Household Setup and not this benefit.

Required Documents: 

• Estimate: Two estimates are required for repairs costing over $500, one estimate if under $500. If client appears to know the problem but requires a repairperson to correct it, an estimate is not necessary if this is impossible or costly.
   

Refrigerator - Used

This special benefit is only available to clients who are in a priority group that also demonstrates they are in an emergency situation (unavoidable and unforeseen circumstances).

The client must take advantage of all available resources in the community (i.e. churches, Salvation Army, relatives and friends, community support groups, classified ads, used furniture, yard sales, etc.) or any other potential resources that may be able to meet their need.

Refrigerators should be repaired if feasible. As a guideline however, if the repair cost is more than half the replacement cost, the refrigerator should be replaced. This benefit should not be issued more than once.

If purchasing a refrigerator as one of two or more benefits to be issued as part of setting up a household for disaster victim or those leaving abusive situations, choose Household Setup and not this benefit.

Required Documents:

• Estimate: Two estimates are required for repairs costing over $200, one estimate if under $200. If the client appears to know the problem but requires a repairperson to correct it, an estimate is not necessary if this is impossible or costly.
   

Smoke Detectors

This special benefit is only available to clients who are in a priority group who live in their own home that also demonstrate they are in an emergency situation (unavoidable and unforeseen circumstances).

Client must take advantage of all available resources in the community (i.e. churches, Salvation Army, relatives and friends, community support groups, classified ads, used furniture, yard sales, etc.) or any other potential resources that may be able to meet their need.

Clients may only be reimbursed after purchase - to a maximum of $10. This benefit may be paid only once per client.

Required Document:

• Receipt of purchase

Stove - New

This special benefit is only available to clients who are in a priority group that also demonstrate they are in an emergency situation (unavoidable and unforeseen circumstances).

The client must take advantage of all available resources in the community (i.e. churches, Salvation Army, relatives and friends, community support groups, classified ads, used furniture, yard sales, etc.) or any other potential resources that may be able to meet their need.

The first choice of purchase should be used items. Stoves should be repaired if feasible. As a guideline however, if the repair cost is more than half the replacement cost, the stove should be replaced. A new stove may only be purchased when it is necessary or when the price difference between new and used is less than 20 per cent. This benefit should not be issued more than once. If purchasing a stove as one of two or more benefits to be issued as part of setting up a household for disaster victim or those leaving abusive situations, choose Household Setup and not this benefit.

Required Documents:

• Estimate: Two estimates are required for repairs costing over $400, one estimate if under $400. If the client appears to know the problem but requires a repairperson to correct it, an estimate is not necessary if this is impossible or costly.
   

Stove - Used

This special benefit is only available to clients who are in a priority group that also demonstrate they are in an emergency situation (unavoidable and unforeseen circumstances).

The client must take advantage of all available resources in the community (i.e. churches, Salvation Army, relatives and friends, community support groups, classified ads, used furniture, yard sales, etc.) or any other potential resources that may be able to meet their need.

Stoves should be repaired if feasible. As a guideline however, if the repair cost is more than half the replacement cost, the stove should be replaced.

This benefit should not be issued more than once. If purchasing a stove as one of two or more benefits to be issued as part of setting up a household for disaster victim or those leaving abusive situations, choose Household Setup and not this benefit.

Required Documents:

• Estimate: Two estimates are required for repairs costing over $200, one estimate if under $200. If the client appears to know the problem but requires a repairperson to correct it, an estimate is not necessary if this is impossible or costly.
   

Washer - New

This special benefit is only available to clients who are in a priority group that also demonstrate they are in an emergency situation (unavoidable and unforeseen circumstances).

The client must take advantage of all available resources in the community (i.e. churches, Salvation Army, relatives and friends, community support groups, classified ads, used furniture, yard sales, etc.) or any other potential resources that may be able to meet their need.

The first choice of purchase should be used items. Washers should be repaired if feasible. As a guideline however, if the repair cost is more than half the replacement cost, the washer should be replaced. The first choice of purchase should be used items. A new washer should only be purchased when it is necessary or when the price difference between new and used is less than 20 per cent. This benefit should not be issued more than once.

If purchasing a washer as one of two or more benefits to be issued as part of setting up a household for disaster victims or those leaving abusive situations, choose Household Setup and not this benefit.

Required Documents:

• Estimate: Two estimates are required for repairs costing over $300; one estimate if under $300. If the client appears to know the problem but requires a repairperson to correct it, an estimate is not necessary if this is impossible or costly.

Washer - Used

This special benefit is only available to clients who are in a priority group that also demonstrate they are in an emergency situation (unavoidable and unforeseen circumstances).

The client must take advantage of all available resources in the community (i.e. churches, Salvation Army, relatives and friends, community support groups, classified ads, used furniture, yard sales, etc.) or any other potential resources that may be able to meet their need. Washers should be repaired if feasible. As a guideline however, if the repair cost is more than half the replacement cost, the washer should be replaced. This benefit should not be issued more than once. If purchasing a washer as one of two or more benefits to be issued as part of setting up a household for disaster victim or those leaving abusive situations, choose Household Setup and not this benefit.

Required Documents:

• Estimate: Two estimates are required for repairs costing over $200; one estimate if under $200. If the client appears to know the problem but requires a repairperson to correct it, an estimate is not necessary if this is impossible or costly.

Child Care

This special benefit may be available to all clients who require child care for one child aged 13 years or younger for medical reasons. Child care may be provided if the parent is in hospital, or has been discharged from the hospital and is unable to care for the child. The client must have explored the option of family assisting with child care. Payments are not to be approved when the caregiver is a unit member or parent of the child.

The rate is $3.25 per hour per child to a maximum of $40 per day and is paid upon receipt of an invoice from the sitter detailing hours worked. A separate childcare statement is required for each individual child requiring childcare.  This benefit is expected to be for short-term intervention only.

Required Documents:

• Written confirmation from physician re: length of stay in the hospital and expected period the client is unable to care for the child.
• Invoice from sitter detailing hours worked.

Diabetic Supplies

This special benefit may be available to all diabetic applicants/clients who are:

• Newly diagnosed with diabetes
• Taking oral medications
• Insulin dependent

The quantities of test strips that are approved are dependent on the client’s diagnosis and treatment recommended by the health professional as indicated on the form.

The supplies could include test strips, lancets, syringes (only for insulin dependent), swabs, and flash glucose meters. Flash glucose monitors and glucose sensors may be provided for insulin dependent diabetics only.  Insulin and medications are covered by the Health Card.

Required Documents:

1. Proof of eligibility (e.g. Request for Blood Glucose Test Supplies form for up to a year in duration from their doctor, nurse practitioner or certified diabetic educator.
2. One estimate for cost from the pharmacy.

Dressings - Cancer Patients

This special benefit may be available for cancer patients requiring special dressings. Dressings for burn victims must be approved by Health Services.

Required Documents:

• Confirmation from physician
• Estimate for the monthly cost

Incontinence Supplies

This special benefit may be available to all individuals who need incontinence protection and:

• are not confined to a wheelchair
• and whose household income is less than $19,500 for single person household or $30,000 for multi-person household

For individuals confined to a wheelchair or bed, these supplies must be authorized by and paid for by Health Services.

Only the most cost effective means of meeting the client’s incontinence need will be approved. Brand name products will only be considered when generic products are not available or when generic products will not meet the client’s medical needs (Justification will be required).  A maximum amount of 240 diapers or pads per month may be approved. If there is a request for more than the maximum amount detailed information must be provided from a qualified health professional justifying the need and duration for the additional amount.

The following items are not allowable items under this benefit:

• Gloves used for general patient care
• Sterile gloves
• Wipes -  medicated and non-medicated

 Required Documents:

• Confirmation from physician stating diagnosis.
• Estimate of monthly cost of supplies.

Infant Formulas

This special benefit may be available to infants over the age of four months who need infant formula for medical reasons. Assistance with the cost of a maximum of four cases (12 cans per case) of infant formula may be provided, if it is medically supported.

This benefit should only be provided if the infant no longer qualifies under the Pre/Postnatal Benefits Program or does not qualify for assistance through the Department of Health's programs.

• The Pre/Postnatal Benefits Program:  New mothers may be eligible for assistance with the cost of Infant Formula/Milk for up to a maximum of four months beginning when the newborn baby is discharged from the hospital.
• The Department of Health's Tube and Supplemental Feeding Program (available through Public Health):  Therapeutic nutritional products/special formulas may be provided through these programs to children under the age of 18.

Over the Counter Items

This special benefit may be available to Basic Assistance clients and Health Card Only clients who provide the proper documentation from their physician or nurse practitioner requesting an over the counter item. The request will then be assessed using the over the counter formulary to determine eligibility.

Only the most cost-effective means of meeting the client’s over the counter need will be approved. Brand name products will only be considered when generic products are not available or when generic products will not meet the client’s medical needs (Justification will be required).

Required Documents:

1. A prescription from a physician or nurse practitioner for the over the counter item.
2. A pharmacy cost estimate for the over the counter item.

Special Diet

The monthly special diet benefit of $40 is available to assist clients with additional food costs for only those clients who are:

• receiving palliative care.
• HIV positive.
• have undergone a major organ transplant such as liver, kidney, heart or lung.
• children up to 19 years of age that are diabetic and insulin dependent.
• diagnosed with AIDS, Celiac disease, Hepatitis C, Cystic Fibrosis, Chronic Inflammatory Bowel Disease (Ulcerative Colitis and Crohn's disease) or Phenylketonuria (PKU).
• cancer patients who in active treatment such as recovering from surgery, receiving radiation, chemotherapy, immunotherapy, bone marrow or stem cell transplantation.
• patients on dialysis for chronic renal failure.

Special diets are intended to assist clients with health issues and are not to supplement monthly social assistance payments.

Clients suffering from PKU should be referred to the "Phenylketonuria Provincial Management Program or through their local dietician.

Required Documents:

• Clients must have a physician complete the Request for Special Diet form that must clearly indicate which of the above conditions the client suffers from. Benefits can be established for up to one year. Renewals will require a prescription (not another form) from the doctor or a note from the nurse practitioner, dietician, or nutritionist requesting the benefit continue indicating the client's medical condition has not changed.

Specialized Infant Formula (Milk Allergy)

This special benefit may be available to infants with a medical need for hydrolyzed infant formula designed to treat cow’s milk protein allergy.  The infant must demonstrate at least one of the following symptoms to be eligible: hives, eczema, enteropathy (bloody stools, watery diarrhea and failure to thrive), severe reflux (vomiting with all feeds and failure to thrive).

Only the following products are available through this program: Alimentum, Nutramigen, Pregestimil.

Infants receiving the Specialized Infant Formula benefit are not eligible to receive Postnatal Benefits through Social Development nor participate in the Department of Health’s Tube and Supplemental Feeding Program during the same time period they are receiving this benefit.  

The Specialized Infant Formula medical referral form is available at the physician’s office. The physician will provide their patient with the completed referral form to apply for this benefit.

The Medical Referral Form should be renewed every 4 months up to the age of 24 months.  Infants greater than 24 months of age are not eligible for this benefit.

This benefit is also available to families who are not eligible for social assistance.  Applicants will need to be assessed under the 4(4) policy.

Maximum amount of formula required by age:

Food & Shelter

This special benefit may be available to all clients who require food and shelter when making medical trips outside the region or province. The standard rate is $10.00 per meal up to a maximum of $30.00 per day per person, unless meals are provided by hospital. Where daily rates established by service providers (i.e., IWK) are higher, the service providers rate would be covered. If the client is staying in a housekeeping unit, the standard rate will be $12.00 per day per person for groceries instead of a meal allowance. Provision can be made for meals, at the same rate, for a person required to accompany the client and also for lodging (usually at a hostel) for the person accompanying the client.

Required Documents:

• Written confirmation from the physician, stating diagnosis, transportation required, length of time needed
• For accompaniment - a letter from thephysician stating client cannot travel alone for medical reasons
• Verbal confirmation from the supplier of accommodations including estimate of cost, followed up by invoice for payment
• Proof that the appointment was kept

Community Medical

This special benefit may be available to clients who require transportation for medical reasons and who use a Community Transportation Agency.

May be paid:

• in emergency situations
• if frequent medical attention is required, creating financial hardship (documented by physician)
•  medical service is not available within 25 km. If service is available within 25 km, only to be paid outside area if:
• client is referred outside region with documentation from physician as to why client cannot obtain service in region or
• client has had surgery outside region and is returning for checkup.

The most economical method of transportation must be paid if medical condition of client will permit.

Guidelines to these payments:

Payment is made based on the mileage required for the trip and typically should not exceed $0.57 per KM
 

Public Transportation

This special benefit may be available to clients who require transportation for medical reasons and who use public transportation.

NOTE: This special benefit may also be selected to pay the Medical Transportation - Taxi benefit within a municipality according to the criteria etc. for that benefit. This is necessary as the regular taxi rate may not be based on a per km. amount.

May be paid:

• in emergency situations.
• if frequent medical attention is required, creating financial hardship.
  
• medical service is not available within 25 km. If service is available within 25 km, only to be paid outside area if:
  - client is referred outside region with documentation from the physician as to why client cannot obtain service in region or
  - client has had surgery outside region and is returning for checkup.

The most economical method of transportation must be paid if medical condition of client will permit.

Guidelines to these payments:

Bus/train: cover cost of fare.

Air transportation:  Air Canada's Medical fare (if available in your region); full fare paid only if no other options are available.

Required Documents:

• Medical report completed by physician, stating diagnosis, transportation required, number of trips, and length of time needed
• If going outside the area for services available within area, documentation as to why client cannot obtain service in region
• Proof that the appointment was kept
• Confirmation of cost - i.e. estimate, invoice or receipt

Taxi

This special benefit may be available to clients who require transportation for medical reasons and who use taxi. May be paid:

• in emergency situations.
• if frequent medical attention is required, creating financial hardship.
• if medical service is not available within 25 km.

If service is available within 25 km, only to be paid outside area if:

• the client is referred outside region with documentation from the physician indicating why the client cannot obtain service in region.
  
• the client had surgery outside region and is returning for checkup.

The most economical method of transportation must be paid if medical condition of the client will permit. Regardless of the number of clients in a vehicle, payment is only made for one.

Payment is to a maximum of 43 cents per km (HST included) outside municipality. If within municipality where municipal taxi rates must be paid, choose Public Transportation.

Required Documents:

• For ongoing - Medical Report, completed by the physician, stating diagnosis, transportation required, number of trips, and length of time needed.
• If going outside the area for services available within area, documentation as to why the client cannot obtain service in region.
• Proof that the appointment was kept.

Private Vehicle

This special benefit may be available to clients who require transportation for medical reasons and who travel by private vehicle, whether their own or another's. May be paid:

• in an emergency situation.
• if frequent medical attention is required creating financial hardship.
• if medical service is not available within 25 km.

If service is available within 25 km, only to be paid outside area if:

• the client is referred outside region with documentation from physician indicating why the client cannot obtain service in region or
• the client has had surgery outside region and is returning for checkup.

The most economical method of transportation must be paid if medical condition of client will permit. Regardless of the number of clients in a vehicle, payment is only made for one.

Payment is limited to $0.57 cents per km for all vehicles.

Required Documents:

• For ongoing benefits - a report from physician stating diagnosis, transportation required, number of trips, and length of time needed.
• If going outside the area for services available within area, documentation as to why client cannot obtain service in region.
• Proof that the appointment was kept.

Community Transportation

This special benefit may be available to clients who require daily transportation to a pharmacy or clinic in order to receive a prescribed medication within a treatment program (e.g. Methadone Program) and who use Community Transportation. 

Treatment Program Transportation guidelines include:

• Daily transportation benefits will be offered to clients for a maximum total of 18 months.
• A combined maximum of $200 per month may be issued for methadone transportation.
• If monthly bus passes are being issued for the daily transportation, no extra coverage is to be issued.
• The most economical means of available transportation must be used.
• This benefit may only be provided if the dispensing pharmacy or clinic is greater than 2.4 kilometres from the client's residence.
• Daily transportation benefits will be calculated based on the distance to the dispensing pharmacy that is closest to the client's place of residence.

Guidelines to these payments:

Payment is made based on the mileage required for the trip and typically should not exceed $0.57 per KM.
 

Transportation (private vehicle)

This special benefit may be available to clients who require daily transportation to a pharmacy or clinic in order to receive a prescribed medication within a treatment program (i.e., Methadone Program) and who travel by private vehicle, whether their own or another's.  When the vehicle being used is not the client's, the special benefit is still paid to the client as opposed to the owner of the vehicle.

Treatment Program Transportation Guidelines include:

• Daily transportation benefits will be offered to clients for a maximum total of 18 months.
• A maximum of $200 per month may be issued for this benefit.
• The most economical means of available transportation must be used.
• This benefit may only be provided if the dispensing pharmacy or clinic is greater than 2.4 kilometres from the client's residence.
• If monthly bus passes are being issued for the daily transportation, no extra coverage is to be issued.
• Daily transportation benefits will be calculated based on the distance to the dispensing pharmacy that is closest to the client's place of residence.
  

Guidelines to these payments:

Payment is limited to $0.57 cents per km for all vehicles.

Regardless of the number of clients in a vehicle, payment is only made for one.

Required documents: 

Proof of daily attendance from the pharmacy or clinic every month.

Transportation (public transportation)

This special benefit may be available to clients who require daily transportation to a pharmacy or clinic in order to receive a prescribed medication within a treatment program (i.e., Methadone Program) and who use public transportation.

NOTE:  This special benefit may also be selected to pay the Treatment Program Transportation - Taxi benefit within a municipality according to the criteria for that benefit.  This is necessary as the regular taxi rate may not be based on a per km amount.

Treatment Program Transportation Guidelines include:

• Daily transportation benefits will be offered to clients for a maximum of 18 months.
• A maximum of $200 per month may be issued for this benefit.
• The most economical means of available transportation must be used.
• This benefit may only be provided if the dispensing pharmacy or clinic is greater than 2.4 kilometres from the client's residence.
• If monthly bus passes are being issued for the daily transportation, no extra coverage is to be issued.
• Daily transportation benefits will be calculated based on the distance to the dispensing pharmacy that is closest to the client's place of residence.

Guidelines to these payments:

Bus:  cover cost of fare.

Required documents: 

Proof of daily attendance from the pharmacy or clinic every month.

Transportation (taxi)

This special benefit may be available to clients who require daily transportation to a pharmacy or clinic in order to receive a prescribed medication within a treatment program (i.e., Methadone Program) and who use public transportation.

Treatment Program Transportation Guidelines include:

• Daily transportation benefits will be offered to clients for a maximum of 18 months.
• A maximum of $200 per month may be issued for this benefit.
• The most economical means of available transportation must be used.
• This benefit may only be provided if the dispensing pharmacy or clinic is greater than 2.4 kilometres from the client's residence.
• If monthly bus passes are being issued for the daily transportation, no extra coverage is to be issued.
• Daily transportation benefits will be calculated based on the distance to the dispensing pharmacy that is closest to the client's place of residence.

Guidelines to these payments:

• Payment is to a maximum of 33 cents per km outside a municipality.  If within a municipality where municipal taxi rates must be paid, choose Public Transportation.
• Regardless of the number of clients in a vehicle, payment is only made for one.

Required documents: 

Proof of daily attendance from the pharmacy or clinic every month.

Household Supplement

The purpose of the Household Supplement is to help social assistance recipients with the rising cost of food and shelter.  This supplement is an ongoing special benefit of $200 per month. Eligibility for this special benefit is determined automatically for clients and is available to households in the Transitional Assistance Program and Extended Benefits Program, except for those experiencing homelessness. 

Income Supplement

Eligibility for this special benefit is determined automatically and is available to families with at least one dependent aged less than 19 years:

• who pay more than 30 per cent of their basic unit rate toward rent costs OR
• whose board costs total more than 30 per cent of their basic unit rate after 30 per cent of the board costs is deducted to consider food costs.

This benefit is not available to clients:

• who are in subsidized rental units.
• who are homeowners (with or without mortgages).
• with monthly rent costs less than 30 per cent of their Basic Unit Rate.
• who are in receipt of Income assistance with Rental Costs (ARC) benefits. Clients have the option to cancel their ARC benefits in order to receive the Income Supplement if it is more beneficial.
• who are in receipt of the Fuel Supplement.

This supplement is an ongoing special benefit of $84 per month from May to October, and $120 per month from November to April. You can only receive the income supplement for one full month. If assistance begins after the 1st of the month, the income supplement will not be issued until the next month.

Child Care

This special benefit may be available to assist clients who have a developed case plan and wish to access unsubsidized employment opportunities Clients are encouraged to use licensed daycare facilities whenever possible; sitter costs will only be considered when daycare is not feasible. Top-ups to daycare rates are not payable for this benefit. Payments are not to be approved when the caregiver is a unit member, parent, or grandparent of the child. Sitter costs will normally only be provided for children aged 13 years or younger. The rate is $3.25 per hour per child and is paid upon receipt of a Childcare Statement Form from the sitter detailing hours worked.  A separate child care statement is required for each individual child requiring childcare.

Required Documents:

• Confirmation of employment, and hours worked (i.e., income stubs)
  
• Childcare Statement Form from sitter detailing hours worked.

Clothing

This special benefit may be available to assist clients who have a developed case plan and require personal clothing to access unsubsidized employment opportunities. All requests must be assessed individually and can only be provided in exceptional circumstances. Maximum amount is $150.

Required Documents:

• Confirmation of employment and need
• Estimate of cost

Fees/Dues

This special benefit may be available to assist clients who have a developed case plan and wish to access unsubsidized employment opportunities. Requests for this benefit must be assessed on an individual basis. This benefit may only be paid in exceptional circumstances.

Required Documents:

• Written request from employer including estimate of cost

Relocation Expenses

This special benefit may be available to assist clients who have a developed case plan and wish to access unsubsidized employment opportunities. The most economical means of relocation must be accessed.

The cost of relocating the client and/or their family may be considered when:

• the client has permanent, non-subsidized, confirmed employment, and if
• other options for funding have been explored and confirmed.

Required Documents:

• Confirmation as to whether a relocation allowance is being paid; and if so, the amount
• Written confirmation from the employer that the work is full time, permanent and non-subsidized
• Estimate for cost of the most economical means of moving

Special Clothing/Equipment

This special benefit may be available to assist clients who have a developed case plan and wish to access unsubsidized employment opportunities.

Clothing refers for example to hard hat, work gloves etc.

Equipment requests must be made by the employer.

A maximum of $200 total may be made for special clothing and/or equipment.

Required Documents:

• Request from employer
• Estimate of cost

Transportation

This special benefit may be available to assist clients who have a developed case plan and wish to access unsubsidized employment opportunities. This benefit may only be provided as a one issue benefit until receipt of first pay. The most economical method of transportation must be used at the following rates:

Private Vehicle: $0.57 cents per km. The driver receives this rate only once, regardless of number of passengers.

Bus: Actual cost of fare.

Community Transportation: Payment is made based on the mileage required for the trip and typically should not exceed $0.57 per KM.

Local: An allowance of $3 per day may be provided for those who live too far to walk, but not far enough to receive an applicable benefit.

Taxi: the rate is $0.33 per km.

Required Documents:

1. Confirmation as to whether a transportation allowance is being paid; and if so, the amount.
2. Confirmation from employer of days to be worked and days until first pay.

Child Care

This special benefit may be available to assist clients who have a developed case plan and wish to access subsidized employment opportunities Clients are encouraged to used licensed Day Care facilities whenever possible; sitter costs will only be considered when Day Care is not feasible. Top-ups to Day Care rates are not payable for this benefit. Payments are not to be approved when the care giver is a unit member, parent, or grandparent of the child. Sitter costs will normally only be provided for children aged 13 years or under. The rate is $3.25 per hour per child and is paid upon receipt of a Childcare Statement Form from the sitter detailing hours worked.  A separate childcare statement is required for each individual child requiring childcare.

Required Documents:

• Confirmation from Post-Secondary Education, Training and Labour as to whether a child care allowance is being paid; and if so, the amount
• Confirmation of enrollment in a CDO subsidized employment program.
• Childcare Statement Form from sitter detailing hours worked.

Clothing

This special benefit may be available to assist clients who have a developed case plan and require personal clothing to access subsidized employment opportunities. All requests must be assessed individually and can only be provided in exceptional circumstances. Maximum amount is $150.

Required Documents:

• Confirmation of employment and need
• Estimate of cost

Fees/Dues

This special benefit may be available to assist clients who have a developed case plan and wish to access employment opportunities. Requests for this benefit must be assessed on an individual basis. This benefit may only be paid in exceptional circumstances.

Required Documents:

• Written request from employer including estimate of cost

Special Clothing/Equipment

This special benefit may be available to assist clients who have a developed case plan and wish to access subsidized employment opportunities.

Clothing refers for example to hard hat, work gloves etc.

Equipment requests must be made by the employer.

A maximum of $200 total may be made for special clothing and/or equipment.

Required Documents:

• Request from employer
• Estimate of cost

Transportation

This special benefit may be available to assist clients who have a developed case plan and wish to access subsidized employment opportunities. This benefit may only be provided as a one issue benefit until receipt of first pay. The most economical method of transportation must be used at the following rates:

• Private Vehicle: $0.57 cents per km. The driver receives this rate only once, regardless of number of passengers
• Bus: Actual cost of fare
• Community Transportation:  Payment is made on the mileage required for the trip and typically should not exceed $0.57 per KM.
• Local: An allowance of $3 per day may be provided for those who live too far to walk, but not far enough to receive an applicable benefit.
• Taxi: The rate is $0.33 per km.

Required Documents: 

• Confirmation as to whether a transportation allowance is being paid, and if so, the amount.
• Written statement from employer confirming days worked.
   

Child Care

This special benefit may be available to assist clients who have a developed case plan and wish to access training opportunities Clients are encouraged to use licensed daycare facilities whenever possible; sitter costs will only be considered when daycare is not feasible. Top-ups to daycare rates are not payable for this benefit. Payments are not to be approved when the caregiver is a unit member, parent, or grandparent of the child. Sitter costs will normally only be provided for children aged 13 years or younger. The rate is $3.25 per hour per child and is paid upon receipt of a Childcare Statement Form from the sitter detailing hours worked.  A separate childcare statement is required for each individual child requiring childcare.

Required Documents:

• Confirmation as to whether a child care allowance is being paid; and if so, the amount
• Confirmation of enrollment in a CDO training program
• Childcare Statement Form from sitter detailing hours worked

Clothing

This special benefit may be available to assist clients who have a developed case plan and wish to access training opportunities. All requests must be assessed individually and can only be provided in exceptional circumstances. Maximum amount is $150.

Required Documents:

• Confirmation of training
• Estimate of cost

Daycare Subsidy Top-Up

Where the Day Care provider rate is greater than the SD subsidy rate, we may subsidize the difference at a maximum of $5/day per child.

Day Care assistance top-up may be considered for CDO clients with an approved case plan while they participate in training.  The top up would be the difference between the maximum rate provided by the Day Care Assistance Program and the daily rate charged by the Day Care. The enhancement amount would be paid to the client, not the Day Care.

If the child is a member of a two parent unit, one parent must meet the training criteria and the other parent must meet any one of the day care criteria.

The maximum amount of Day Care subsidy top-up allowed is 23 days per month per child at a maximum of $5/day. This amount is to be paid directly to client at the beginning of the month.

Example: If the day care subsidy rate is $24.50 per day and the Day Care is charging $27.00 per day, the top up would be $2.50 per day.

Required Documents:

• Confirmation as to whether a child care allowance is being paid; and if so, the amount.
• Confirmation of training participation and hours of attendance in school.
• Invoice from child care provider.

Medical Examination

This special benefit may be available to assist clients who have a developed case plan and wish to access training opportunities. The cost of such examinations may be paid when required as a pre-requisite to admittance to training institutions.

Required Documents:

• Request from training institution
• Invoice from physician
   

Relocation Expenses

This special benefit may be available to assist clients who have a developed case plan and wish to access training opportunities. The most economical means of relocation must be accessed.

The cost of relocating the client and/or their family may be considered when:

• the client will be attending a post-secondary institution outside the region for an extended period of time, and if
• other options for funding have been explored and confirmed.

Required Documents:

• Confirmation from post-secondary institution
• Estimate of cost

School Supplies

This special benefit may be available to assist clients who have a developed case plan and wish to access upgrading or skills training opportunities. A maximum of $50 may be issued to purchase supplies such as pens, pencils, binders, loose leaf etc., for upgrading or skills training.

Required Documents:

• Confirmation of enrollment in upgrading or training program

Special Clothing/Equipment

This special benefit may be available to assist clients who have a developed case plan and wish to access training opportunities.

Clothing refers for example to hard hat, work gloves etc.

Equipment requests must be made by the training facility.

A maximum of $200 total may be made for special clothing and/or equipment.

Required Documents:

• Request from training institution
• Estimate of cost

Student Activity Fees

This special benefit may be available to assist clients who have a developed case plan and wish to access training opportunities. Student activity fees may only be paid to training institutions.

Required Documents:

• Confirmation  as to whether student activity fees are being paid by a third party; and if so, the amount
• Request from training institution

Text Books

This special benefit may be available to assist clients who have a developed case plan and wish to access training opportunities. Text Books may only be paid if necessary for the training program and if they are not included in the tuition fees

Required Documents:

• Confirmation of the need for books, and that they are not covered by tuition
• Estimate of cost

Training Purchases

This benefit is used as a last resort when short-term training is purchased for a client, as part of an active case plan, when it is not covered by any other agency.

Required Documents:

• Written request from the service provider outlining need and cost

Training Related Expenses

This special benefit may be available to assist clients who are participating in training and who require items not covered by other CDO benefits.

Required Documents:

• Written request from the training institution outlining need and cost

Transportation

This special benefit may be available to assist clients who have a developed case plan and wish to access training opportunities. If the client is in receipt of transportation allowance from another agency such as SDC, payment may only be as a supplement if that rate is lower than what would be paid by SDC. The most economical method of transportation must be used at the following rates:

Private Vehicle: $0.57 cents per km. The driver receives this rate only once, regardless of number of passengers.

Bus: Actual cost of fare.

Community Transportation:  Payment is made based on the mileage required for the trip and typically should not exceed $0.57 per KM.

Local: An allowance of $3 per day may be provided for those who live too far to walk, but not far enough to receive an applicable benefit.

Taxi: the rate is $0.33 per km.

Required Documents:

• Confirmation as to whether a transportation allowance is being paid and if so, amount.
   

Telephone

This special benefit may be available to priority groups and is for telephone connection charges only (i.e. not arrears or monthly charges). This benefit will be considered only for medical reasons or in situations of potential violence.

Required Documents:

• Written confirmation by a physician for requests due to medical reasons or
• Written confirmation by the police for requests due to potential violence.

Water & Sewage

This special benefit may be available to priority groups who:

• own their own home.
• have a mortgage payment.
• are in an emergency situation, i.e.: water is to be turned off.

Required Documents:

• Written confirmation from the utility that the water or sewage is to be turned off, including amount of minimum payment required to prevent disruption of service.

Appeal Board Decisions

This special benefit may be available to all clients for benefits that have been approved by the Appeal Board according to the criteria in the Appeals policy.

Required Documents:

• Written documentation from Appeal Board.

Clothing

This special benefit may be available to priority groups only; for reasons not related to CDO programming (training or employment).

Required Documents:

• Confirmation from client, and documented notes on file
• Estimate of cost

Comfort & Clothing Allowance

This is a special benefit, and should not be confused with the Comfort & Clothing rate of assistance to which some applicants/clients may be entitled. This special benefit may be available to some applicants/clients in institutions, hospitals, or transition houses at a maximum amount of $135 per month.

NOTE: This may not be issued to clients in a correctional facility (an incarcerated client).

Required Documents:

• Confirmation from the facility stating that the client is a resident and the expected length of stay.

Disasters

This special benefit may be available to clients or applicants who are victims of non-declared disasters. This benefit is equivalent to one month's Basic Unit Rate for that unit, less what is available from resources such as Red Cross. The unit may also be eligible for the Household Setup benefit to a maximum of $2,000 to replace items lost in the disaster.

Required Documents:

• Confirmation from agency involved with disaster, such as Red Cross, Salvation Army, EMO, Fire Department or Police, etc.

Extermination Services

This special benefit may be available to all clients who have pests such as bedbugs, fleas, rodents, etc. in their residence, which require extermination with the use of chemicals by a company specializing in this service. This benefit may only be approved upon written recommendation from the Public Health Inspector or a Public Health Nurse.

Required Documents:

• Confirmation of need from Public Health inspector or Public Health nurse

Household Setup

This special benefit is only available to clients who are in a priority group that also demonstrate they are in an emergency situation (unavoidable and unforeseen circumstances) with no insurance or other resources.

Client must take advantage of all available resources in the community (i.e. churches, Salvation Army, relatives and friends, community support groups, classified ads, used furniture, yard sales, etc.) or any other potential resources that may be able to meet their need.

The maximum amount allowed for all benefits issued to set up a household is $2000. All other resources must be explored first. Household Setup may include the cost of: bedding, towels, dishes, pots/pans, cutlery, refrigerator, stove, washer, kitchen table and chairs, beds and cribs.

Required Documents:

• Confirmation from agency involved (i.e. Red Cross, EMO, Fire Department or Police etc.)

Miscellaneous

This special benefit is to be used for those situations which are rarely encountered but are recognized by the department as valid special benefits. (i.e. seeing eye dogs, language interpreters, etc.)

Property Insurance

This special benefit may be available to priority groups only. Payment may only be made when the result of non-payment will be the loss of the property or denial of eligibility to obtain a loan for repairs or to renew a mortgage.

Required Documents:

• Invoice from insurance company
• Confirmation from financial institution that insurance is required in order to renew mortgage

Relocation In Province

This special benefit may be available to priority groups only, for the following reasons:

• client forced out of present accommodations by fire, flood, or abusive situation.
• client's health or safety threatened.

Payment will cover basic moving expenses, not any packing fees and is made as a one issue upon receipt of an invoice. 

Required Documents:

• Confirmation from authorities of circumstances. (i.e.: Fire Department, Police, EMO, etc.)
• Invoice

Repatriation

This benefit is available to all clients who meet the criteria as outlined in the Repatriation policy. 

Required Documents:

• Confirmation of method of travel and cost
• Confirmation of situation
• Confirmation regarding contact person in receiving province

Security Deposits

This special benefit may be available to disaster victims, women in transition, and clients diagnosed with HIV or AIDS. They must be in a rental situation where the accommodations are rented in the name of the client, and where it is evident that the monthly rent cost is not beyond the means of the client. Except in extreme situations, it is only paid once per client. It is paid directly to the Office of the Rentalsman or by voucher to co-op or low rental agencies not covered by the Housing division of the Department of Social Development. Clients should be advised to contact the Rentalsman to have their security deposit transferred when they move. Landlords should contact the Rentalsman when tenants with security deposits move.

Required Documents:

• Proof of accommodations indicating the need for a security deposit
• For individuals with an HIV/AIDS, confirmation of the diagnosis

Transportation - Community

This special benefit may be available to women in transition and disaster victims to pay for transportation for reasons other than medical, training, or employment.  Payment is made based on the mileage required for the trip and typically should not exceed $0.57 per KM.
 

Transportation - Private Vehicle

This special benefit may be available to women in transition and disaster victims to pay for transportation for reasons other than medical, training, or employment. This is paid at $0.57 cents per KM upon receipt of invoice.

Required Documents:

• Confirmation from authorities that a disaster has occurred or
• Confirmation from client or police authorities that abuse has taken place and a note created on file
• Invoice

Transportation - Taxi

This special benefit may be available to women in transition and disaster victims to pay for transportation for reasons other than medical, training, or employment. This is paid upon receipt of invoice at 33 cents per km if outside city or town limits; and at the usual taxi rates if within the city or town limits.

Required Documents:

• Confirmation from authorities that a disaster has occurred or
• Confirmation from client or police authorities that abuse has taken place and a note created on file
• Invoice

Child Care

This special benefit may be available to assist clients in Work Services:

• Obtaining Employment: who have completed an Employability Assessment and have developed a case plan
• Retaining Employment: who have a developed case plan and have found employment.

Clients are encouraged to use licensed daycare facilities whenever possible; sitter costs will only be considered when daycare is not feasible. Top-ups to daycare rates are not payable for this benefit. payments re not be approved when the caregiver is a unit member, parent or grandparent of the child. Sitter costs will normally be provided for children aged 13 or younger. The rate is $3.25 per hour per child and is paid upon receipt of a Child Care Statement Form from the sitter detailing the hours worked.

Obtaining - Required Documents

• Confirmation of Job Search from Work Services Coach
• Child Care Statement Form from sitter detailing hours worked

Retaining - Required Documents

• Confirmation of employment, and hours worked (i.e., income stubs)
  
• Invoice from sitter detailing hours worked

When retaining employment, this benefit may be provided for a period of 12 months from the start of employment.

Clothing and Appearance

This special benefit may be available to assist Work Services clients who have a developed case plan and wish to improve their appearance to eventually access employment opportunities. Assistance with clothing for up to $150 and $50 for appearance for job searching are part of this benefit. A one timed issued benefit of $200 total may be provided for clothing and appearance.

Required Documents:

• Receipt from purchases - to ensure they were work related clothing

Criminal Record Check

This special benefit may be able to assist Work Services clients, who have a developed case plan, and wish to access employment opportunities, in a field of employment that requires a criminal record check to be completed as a pre-requisite to getting hired. The benefit covers the cost of a criminal record check, up to a maximum of $50.

Required Documents:

• Request from potential employer
• Invoice from police/RCMP

Daycare Subsidy Top-Up

Where the daycare provider rate is greater than the Social Development subsidy rate, we can subsidize the difference for a maximum of 6 months.

Daycare assistance top-up may be considered for Work Services clients during their job search. The top up would be the difference between the maximum rate provided by Social Development and the daily rate charged by the daycare. The enhancement amount would be paid to the client, not the daycare.

If the child is a member of a two parent unit, one parent must meet the employment criteria and the other parent must meet any one of the criteria as defined above.

The maximum amount of day care subsidy allowed is 23 days per months per child at a maximum of $5 per day. This amount is to be paid directly to client at the beginning of the months.

Example: If the day care subsidy rate is $24.50 per day and the daycare is charging $27 per day, the top up would be $2.50 per day.

Required Documents:

• Confirmation of job search or employment and hours worked
• Invoice from child care provider

Emergency Retention Benefit

This benefit is available to clients of Work Services who found employment within the last 12 months, and are at risk of losing their job as a result of a financial crisis. Case manager can provide up to $500 following a thorough assessment of circumstances and identified need.

All requests for this benefit must be assessed to determine whether:

The service or items requested are intended to meet critical emergency needs which, if not satisfied, would cause the client to lose their employment.

If the client(s) have the means or alternative ways of obtaining the services or items requested.

Required documents:

• Confirmation of crisis and need
• Confirmation of employment status
• Cost estimates and/or receipts of items purchased

Intra-Provincial Interview Expenses

This special benefit may be available to assist clients in Work Services who have developed a case plan and wish to attend a scheduled job interview in another region of the province, and to which the employer doesn't permit a telephone job interview. The most economical means of travel must be accessed. Maximum amount for this benefit is $200 per calendar year..

Required documents:

• Confirmation from employer
• Proof of Interview appointment

Medical

This special benefit may be available to assist Work Services clients who have a developed case plan and wish to access employment opportunities in a field of employment that requires a medical be completed as a pre-requisite to an interview. A copy of the medical would be placed on file. The maximum amount per medical is $50

Required documents:

• Request from potential employer
• Invoice from physician

Relocation Expenses

This special benefit may be available to assist Work Services clients who have a developed case plan and wish to access unsubsidized employment opportunities. The most economical means of relocation must be accessed.

The cost of relocating the client and/or their family may be considered when: the client has permanent, non subsidized, confirmed employment, and if other options for funding have been explored and confirmed.

Required documents:

• Confirmation as to whether a relocation allowance is being paid; and if so, the amount
• Written confirmation from the employer that the work is full time, permanent and non-subsidized
• Estimate for cost of the most economical means of moving

Special Clothing/Equipment

This special benefit may be available to assist Work Services clients who have a developed case plan and wish to access unsubsidized employment opportunities.

Clothing refers for example to hard hat, work gloves, etc. Equipment requests must be made by the employer. A maximum of $200 total may be made for special clothing and/or equipment.

Required documents:

• Request from employer
• Estimate of cost

Specialized Counseling

Counseling sessions are available to clients in Work Services who have found employment in the last 12 months and need help dealing with personal or family issues. The counseling needed is deemed short-term and is meant to assist the clients in retaining employment. The maximum allowable sessions with a service provider is 10.

Required documents:

• Verification that this service is not available through the employer
• A need has to be identified by work services case manager
• Proof of attendance

Transitional Benefit

This special benefit may be provided to Work Services clients who have developed a case plan and find full time employment. This benefit is intended to assist the client in covering costs related to going to work and to enable them to have a successful transition into the work force. All requests must be assessed individually. A one issue benefit may be provided up to a maximum of $500.

Required documents:

• Confirmation of employment
  
• Estimate costs of items needed
• Receipt of items purchased

Transportation

Obtaining: This special benefit may be available to Work Services clients, who have an Employability Assessment, a developed case plan and require transportation to Job Search. It may be provided as an ongoing benefit up to six months or until the client secures employment.

Retaining: This special benefit may be available to assist Work Services clients who have a developed case plan and have found employment. This benefit may only be provided as an ongoing benefit for one month from the start date of employment.

Clients should not receive Transportation for Child Care and Transportation for seeking employment for the same distance travelled. Transportation for seeking employment would begin from the Child Care facility.

The most economical method of transportation must be used at the following rates;

Private Vehicle: $0.57 cents per km. The driver receives this rate only once, regardless of number of passengers.

Bus: Actual cost of fare.

Community Transportation:  Payment is made based on the mileage required for the trip and typically should not exceed $0.57 per KM.

Local: An allowance of $3 per day may be provided for those who live too far to walk, but not far enough to receive an applicable benefit.

Taxi: Although the rate is 33 cents per km.

The maximum monthly amount of this benefit is $200 per client (All transportation methods combined).

Transportation for Child Care  

This special benefit may be available to Work Services clients (obtaining) who have a developed case plan and require transportation to access Daycare/Alternative Child Care or Child Care by paying transportation to the Child Care site. This benefit may only be provided as an ongoing benefit up to six months or until the client secures employment.

The maximum monthly amount of this benefit is $200 per client (All transportation methods combined).

Required documents:

• Receipts for use of transportation allowance
  

Clients should not receive Child Care Transportation and transportation for seeking employment for the same distance travelled. Transportation for seeking employment would begin from the Child Care Facility.

Union/Association Fee

This special benefit may be available to assist Work Services clients who have a developed case plan and wish to access employment opportunities that require membership and in a particular union or professional association, in which they already possess the skills, experience and qualifications. Requests for this benefit must be assessed on an individual basis. This benefit covers the cost of the union dues and association fees up to a maximum of $500.

Required documents:

• Written estimate of cost from the Union and/or Association
• Request from potential employer