Alberta disability advocates fear new program will lead to increase in poverty

Alberta disability advocates are frustrated the province is moving ahead with plans to launch a new disability benefit program, saying it will increase poverty for those on assistance.

Calgary’s Kavin Sheikheldin, who suffers from epilepsy, says she and many others on the income assistance program are concerned about a new Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP).

“It’s going to cause more confusion for people who are already stressed with other things,” said Sheikheldin, a recipient of AISH (Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped).

The proposed change means those on AISH could be transferred to the new program that would allow them keep more earnings from employment, but would pay $200 less per month. Applicants for disability benefits will be assessed for both AISH and ADAP w