WINNIPEG — While welcoming the federal government’s attempts to improve the Canadian Disability Benefit, a new report highlights criticisms being raised against the current program. David Kron, the Director of the Cerebral Palsy Association of Manitoba (CPMB), stated that the procedures for obtaining the benefit are highly complex.
Kron argues that the monthly amount of $200, which is part of the plan set to begin in June 2025, is insufficient to support financially struggling disabled individuals. He added that the amount is “insulting” when compared to the income needed to live above the poverty line.
In addition to the general cost of living, disabled persons residing outside major cities face increased daily expenses due to travel barriers and other difficulties, further complicating their situation. Although the CPMB is pleased that the time taken to receive benefits is being reduced, they point out that the hurdles for obtaining the benefit still persist. Statistics indicate that approximately 27,000 Manitoba residents were dependent on government assistance programs during the 2023–2024 period.
