Nova Scotia’s recent policy change to link income assistance to the consumer price index is being met with cautious optimism. The initiative, which saw a 3.1% increase in rates effective January 1, aims to adjust annually, reflecting inflation. Ash Avery, head of the non-profit Feed Nova Scotia, however, warns this adjustment falls short of freeing people from poverty. With the cost of living crisis persisting, many struggle to afford necessities like food and housing.
Feed Nova Scotia, which supports 140 food banks and meal programs, has witnessed a dramatic increase in demand, now aiding over 23,000 people monthly—a 52% rise from 2022. Avery emphasizes the need for more robust solutions, such as establishing a living wage and increasing access to affordable housing.
Scott Armstrong, Minister of Opportunities and Social Development, reaffirmed the government’s awareness of the escalating costs, describing the indexing as a stable support mechanism for the 37,280 beneficiaries in the region. Despite the 3.1% boost building on a 2.5% raise in July, Avery calls for bolder actions to tackle the province’s poverty, urging the newly elected government to implement more substantial measures.
