We are asking the Government of British Columbia to immediately raise the rates for disability assistance, income assistance, and low-income seniors.

At the outset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government of Canada, with the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB), determined that the minimum necessary for an individual is $1,800/month (CERB officially $2,000/month, but taxes automatically taken out for $1,800/month).

The Government of Canada also provided increased supports specifically for a minority of disabled students eligible for the Canada Emergency Student Benefit (CESB), recognizing that disabled people have higher costs than non-disabled: $1,250/month for regular students, but with an additional $750/month for disabled ones.

People on BC assistance have found it increasingly difficult to afford basic essentials necessary for even the most minimal standard of living, to include: food, clothing, transportation, housing, internet, and medications.

A minimum level of assistance set at $1,800/month mirroring the CERB’s $1,800/month (or more appropriately, $2,000/month mirroring the CESB’s $2,000/month) will make a hugely positive impact, improving people’s lives and helping many of them to become more involved in their communities.

Please show your support by signing the petition. Please show your support for People with Disabilities (PWD).