AISH, seniors, Alberta Works

Funding for the Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH) program will increase by $86 million to $574 million in 2006-07.

This is an 18 per cent increase over last year's budget. This funding will:

• increase the living allowance to $1,000 a month, starting in April 2006,
• provide increased financial support for AISH clients living in continuing care facilities, and
• fully implement enhancements introduced to the program over the last year (more information).

Other funding for Albertans with disabilities includes an additional $13 million for the Persons with Developmental Disabilities program, bringing total funding to nearly $509 million for this program that serves 9,200 Albertans.

In addition, an increase of $5 million to the Aids to Daily Living budget brings total spending to nearly $89 million for medical equipment and supplies to help Albertans live more independently.

Seniors assistance programs

All seniors have been exempt from paying health care premiums since 2004, and many low-income Albertans over 65 will benefit from a nearly $32 million increase in funding to:

• the Alberta Seniors Benefit,
• seniors lodge assistance programs, and
• the Education Property Tax, Dental, and Optical Assistance Programs.
• More information.

Alberta Works

Albertans who face significant challenges that prevent them from working will get five per cent more each month through Alberta Works.

This brings the total spending for their core rates, health coverage and other benefits to more than $151 million.

Close to 12,000 Albertans will benefit from the $5.5 million increase, which takes effect May 1. For example:

• A single person will get an additional $32 per month.
• A couple with two children will get an additional $65 per month.

Alberta Works clients who are looking for a job, working or in training already benefit from investments in employment services, occupation-specific training and other employment-related supports.

The program will also expand skills and apprenticeship training programs available through Alberta Works, with an emphasis on occupations facing labour shortages.

More information: Alberta Works