Residents of Newfoundland and Labrador navigating life with a disability can access a range of supports designed to provide financial stability and enhance independence. This guide provides an overview of provincial income assistance, programs for assistive technology and home modifications, and connections to federal benefits and national organizations offering specialized resources
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Provincial Financial Assistance | Federal Disability Benefits | Free Navigation Services | Financial Aid for Post-Secondary Students with Disabilities | National Charitable Organizations
Provincial Financial Assistance Programs in Newfoundland and Labrador
Income Support
This program provides financial assistance to individuals and families who have no other way to support themselves, including a Disabled Contributor Category for those unable to work due to a long-term disability.
Telephone: 1-877-729-7888 (toll-free provincial line)
Email: [email protected]
Website: Income Support
Special Assistance Program
The Special Assistance Program is a provincial program which provides basic medical supplies and equipment to assist with activities of daily living for individuals living in the community who meet the eligibility criteria for the program. Benefits of the program include:
- Medical supplies (such as dressings, catheters and incontinent supplies),
- Oxygen and related equipment and supplies,
- Orthotics such as braces and burn garments, and
- Equipment such as wheelchairs, commodes or walkers.
For more information on accessing this service contact your NL Health Services
Website: Special Assistance Program
Home Modification Program
This program provides financial assistance for home modifications to improve accessibility and safety for residents with physical disabilities. It is administered by the Newfoundland and Labrador Housing Corporation (NLHC).
Website: Home Modification Program
Prescription Drug Program
This program offers drug coverage for eligible residents, including those receiving income support.
Telephone: 1-888-859-3535 (Department of Health and Community Services general inquiry line)
Website: Prescription Drug Program (NLPDP)
How to Get the Most Accurate Information
For Health-Related Programs (ATIP, Prescription Drug): Start by calling the Department of Health and Community Services at 1-888-859-3535. They can direct you to the correct program advisor or regional NL Health Services office.
For Income Support: Use the dedicated toll-free number (1-877-729-7888) for applications and inquiries.
Federal Disability Benefits for Residents for Newfoundlander Residents
Federal programs administered by the Government of Canada, available to all Canadians including Newfoundland and Labrador residents.
Visit Our Guide: National Disability Funding & Supports in Canada
Free Disability Benefits 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.
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
Newfoundland and Labrador 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.
Newfoundland 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 Newfoundland
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.
