As one of several investments in Island children and their families, the Minister cited $90,000 in additional funding for the Family Health Benefit program. Income thresholds will expand from a net family income of $22,000 to $24,800. Further, families will be eligible to receive coverage under the program if at least one child is a full-time student and under 25 years old. These program enhancements will begin July 1 and will expand opportunity for up to 400 clients.

Other provincial drug program enhancements include an additional $2.2 million to meet demands in the coming year and $1 million for new cancer drugs.

The Minister noted that the Seniors Secretariat was established in November 2005 to develop and support plans, policy and programs to improve the quality of life of Island seniors. A budget increase of $150,000 will enable the Seniors Secretariat to move forward with its priorities, including the development of a PEI Seniors Handbook as well as support for the Celebration 50+ Expo and public education efforts.

“Organizations like the Catholic Family Service Bureau, Family Service Bureau, PEI Council of the Disabled, CNIB and others provide invaluable programming that helps to strengthen our families, parents, individuals and persons with disabilities ,” said Minister Gillan. “We are pleased to provide a budget increase of $590,000 in annual grants to such community-based organizations.”

The Disability Support Program budget will increase by 11 per cent to over $9 million.

The Minister added that 100 foster families also contribute significantly in caring for over 250 children everyday. A budget increase of $149,000 will support increases to the room and board rates as well as the monthly fee provided for the care and needs of foster children.

The budget accounts for a three per cent increase to help over 2,700 social assistance clients deal with rising shelter costs.

The Department of Social Services and Seniors is responsible for pharmacy and dental programs, child and family services, social programs, as well as seniors issues. In his concluding remarks to the Legislature, Minister Gillan recognized the contributions of department staff.

“Staff are working collaboratively with other departments and levels of government, community sectors and local interest groups to advance progressive social policy and strengthen Prince Edward Island families and communities.”

Budget Highlights