Social Development
Social Development is an Indigenous Services Program (ISC) delivered by First Nation communities. The program is responsible for Income Assistance, Assisted Living, and social programming that has the well-being of the community in mind. All policy is set out by ISC.
Programs are funded and delivered to on-reserve residents only. Both Indigenous and non-Indigenous persons living on KFN reserve lands can apply for Income Assistance (except those living on KFN commercial properties such as the Queneesh Trailer Park or the RV Puntledge campground).
You need to follow the application process and steps to qualify. Please call 250-339-4545 with any questions or to apply for assistance.
Click on the tab on the left to find Social Development related resources you may need.
What is income assistance?
Income assistance is sometimes called welfare or social assistance. Income assistance on-reserve includes money and other benefits for any adults who:
- live on reserve
- do not have enough money to meet their needs
- have no other reasonable way of getting money
What do income assistance benefits include?
Income assistance benefits for people living on reserve include:
- monthly benefits:
- Employable Income Assistance benefit (monthly cheque)
- Persons with Disabilities Income Assistance benefit (often called PWD benefits)
- Persons with Persistent Multiple Barriers Income Assistance benefit (often called PPMB benefits)
- Hardship Income Assistance benefit, and
- A range of other benefits, which are dependent on the assistance you qualify for (you can discuss during your application process)
Each benefit has its own set of requirements, which determines whether you are eligible to receive the benefit. This means that you may be able to receive some income assistance benefits, but not others, depending on your personal circumstance.
If employable, applicants must participate in available employability programs and use all their available resources and income to support themselves as the preferred alternative to income assistance.
Income Assistance Resources
- Income Assistance on Reserve in BC Information Booklet
- Rights and Responsibilities of Applicants and Recipients
- Applying for Income Assistance
- Income Assistance FAQ
- Wachiay Friendship Centre – Advocacy and support services
- Aboriginal Legal Aid
- BC Aboriginal Network on Disability Society
Please call 250-339-4545 with any questions or to apply for assistance.
Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
Resources for parents
Jordan’s Principle
Jordan’s Principle is a child-first principle, named in memory of Jordan River Anderson, and makes sure all First Nations children can access the products, services, and supports they need, when they need them. Jordan’s Principle can help with a wide range of health, social, and educational needs.
For more detailed information, please visit the Government of Canada’s website page on Jordan’s Principle.