The Hamilton Roundtable for Poverty Reduction and its community partners have been engaged with the establishment of the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) since consultations began.
This program could provide an additional $200 of monthly income to the over 11,600 residents who report always or often living with activity limitations. If even a portion of these individuals qualify and apply, the CDB could generate up to $28 million annually in new income for local residents. That’s a life-changing prospect for eligible individuals. We believe this modest income boost can contribute to better health and well-being.
Quick Facts:
- Low-income individuals experience higher rates of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and lower over-all life expectancy.
- Poverty increases the incidence of stress related mental health issues like anxiety, and are more likely to develop or face relapse of mental illness.
- People with disabilities are twice as likely to live in poverty than those without a disability.
- This income could alleviate the financial barriers to accessing physical and mental health treatment.
Can you help us?
We are conducting a survey to gauge awareness around the Canada Disability Benefit such as looking at what is entailed such as requiring a Disability Tax Credit Certificate to apply. We are also trying to understand possible barriers for patients such as form fees for low-income individuals in your practice.
This survey is hosted on our own website and is anonymous unless you choose to share your identity.
