Finding and accessing the right financial supports is a crucial step toward stability for persons with disabilities in New Brunswick. This guide outlines the provincial social assistance framework, highlights new federal benefits, and connects you with local advocacy groups and national organizations that can provide essential equipment, navigation help, and community resources.
Quick Jump Navigation
Provincial Financial & Support Programs | Assistive Technology Program | Federal Disability Benefits | Free Navigation Services | Financial Aid for Post-Secondary Students with Disabilities | National Charitable Organizations
Provincial Financial & Support Programs in New Brunswick
The Government of New Brunswick’s primary support through Social Assistance with provisions for those unable to work
Social Assistance for Persons with Disabilities
This program, which provides basic financial support to eligible residents, is administered by the New Brunswick Department of Social Development. For information, applications, or case inquiries, you must contact your local Regional Service Commission (RSC) office of the Department of Social Development.
Website: Social Assistance for Persons with Disabilities
Important Context: As noted, advocacy groups like Inclusion NB are actively calling for reform. You can learn more about their advocacy work on social assistance rates and eligibility at their website: Inclusion NB
Easter Seals NB Assistive Technology Program
ESNB loans assistive technology to people with a disability for assessment purposes and long term loans. The primary goal of the Assistive Technology Program is to provide clients with the opportunity to trial the recommended technology before purchasing.
Phone: (506) 458-8739
Toll-Free Phone: 1-888-280-8155
Email: [email protected]
Website: Easter Seals NB Assistive Technology Program
Federal Disability Benefits for New Brunswick Residents
Federal programs administered by the Government of Canada, available to all Canadians including New Brunswickers.
Visit Our Guide: National Disability Funding & Supports in Canada
Free Local & National Advocacy and Navigation Services
The Government of Canada funds organizations to provide free, one-on-one help to individuals and families struggling to understand or apply for federal and territorial disability benefits and tax credits. These navigators can help with forms, eligibility, and accessing the full range of supports.
Inclusion NB
This is a primary advocacy organization in the province working to modernize disability supports and increase income assistance rates. They are a key source for information on local issues and rights.
Website: Inclusion NB
National Services
These are national organizations that provide services across Canada.
National Directory of Navigation Services
Official Government of Canada updated directory of all funded navigation services across Canada.
Website: National Directory of Navigation Services
Plan Institute
Indigenous Disability Canada (IDC) / BCANDS
Indigenous Disability Canada (BCANDS) gives culturally focused navigation, support, and advocacy for Indigenous peoples with disabilities and their families.
Website: Indigenous Disability Canada
Financial Aid for Post-Secondary Students with Disabilities
New Brunswick Student Aid offers grants to support post-secondary students with documented permanent or persistent/prolonged disabilities. This includes the Canada Student Grant for Students with Disabilities ($2,800 per loan year) and the Canada Student Grant for Services and Equipment (up to $20,000 per loan year) for education-related costs.
New Brunswick Financial Aid for Students with Disabilities
Read Our Complete Guide: Financial Aid for Canadian Students with Disabilities
Provincial Financial Aid: Financial Aid for Canadian Students with Disabilities in New Brunswick
National Charitable & Condition-Specific Organizations
Organizations offering supplemental support including funding, equipment, advocacy, and community resources
General Support Organizations:
- Rick Hansen Foundation: Focuses on removing physical and attitudinal barriers.
- March of Dimes Canada: Runs programs like the Home and Vehicle Modification Program.
- Easter Seals Canada: Provides mobility equipment funding and accessible camps.
- Neil Squire Society: Empowers people with disabilities through assistive technology and employment programs.
Condition-Specific Support:
- Muscular Dystrophy Canada: Supports those with neuromuscular disorders through equipment funding and clinic access.
- Cerebral Palsy Canada Network: Provides research and resource information for the cerebral palsy community.
- Spina Bifida & Hydrocephalus Association of Canada: Offers national programs and advocacy.
- Brain Injury Canada: A national source for education, awareness, and support.
- Canadian National Institute for the Blind (CNIB): Offers programs and advocacy for people with sight loss.
