Starting this year, income assistance in N.S. to be tied to consumer price index

Feed Nova Scotia’s executive director, Ash Avery, has expressed that while Nova Scotia’s decision to index income assistance is a positive step, it falls short of lifting people out of poverty. The 3.1 per cent increase in income assistance rates that took effect on January 1st will be adjusted annually based on the consumer price index. However, Avery believes that this modest raise is not sufficient to address the cost-of-living crisis that many individuals and families in the province are facing.

Feed Nova Scotia plays a crucial role in addressing food insecurity by supporting 140 food banks, shelters, soup kitchens, and meal programs across Nova Scotia. The non-profit organization currently feeds over 23,000 people each month, a number that has increased by 52 per cent since 2022. Avery highlighted that more than 58 per cent of those relying on Feed Nova Scotia identify government financial support as their primary source of income, indicating that income assistance alone is insufficient to cover basic necessities.

Minister of Opportunities and Social Development, Scott Armstrong, acknowledged the challenges faced by many Nova Scotians due to the rising cost of essentials such as rent and groceries. He emphasized that the indexing system provides reliable support to the 37,280 individuals receiving income assistance. In addition to the recent 3.1 per cent increase, there was a 2.5 per cent raise in income assistance rates in July. The government aims to support those facing financial hardships exacerbated by inflation.

Avery called for the implementation of bold policies to establish a living wage, improve access to essential resources, and address the severe shortage of affordable housing in Nova Scotia. She stressed the urgency of taking meaningful action to combat poverty in the province, labeling it as a moral failure. With a new government in place, Avery urged policymakers to step up and prioritize bold initiatives that will make a significant impact on alleviating poverty.

In conclusion, while the decision to index income assistance is a step in the right direction, more comprehensive measures are needed to uplift individuals and families out of poverty in Nova Scotia. By addressing systemic issues such as inadequate wages, lack of access to essentials, and affordable housing shortages, the government can make a tangible difference in the lives of those struggling to make ends meet. Feed Nova Scotia continues to advocate for bold action to create a more equitable and prosperous future for all residents of the province.