News Release

FREDERICTON (GNB) – The provincial government is providing up to $5 million to help home support workers and family support workers dealing with the higher transportation costs of serving clients.

“Home support and family support services are important for thousands of New Brunswickers in their daily life,” said Social Development Minister Bruce Fitch. “These workers are instrumental in supporting clients of all ages, in their homes, so they can continue to live independently and safely and enjoy a good quality of life. That is why we are providing immediate relief with their mileage costs.”

This funding will allow about 4,200 home support workers and 1,100 family support workers to receive one-time support for mileage costs. The funding will be distributed to workers through their employers. More details on the payment process will be communicated directly to agencies and workers.

Home support workers provide in-person care to seniors and people with disabilities. Their services can help with daily activities such as personal care (bathing, grooming, eating, etc.), light housekeeping and meal preparation. These services can also include relief to caregivers.

Family support workers have training and education to help people with exceptional needs, including children. Their services are goal-driven and focus on skill-building, behavioural issues, social inclusion activities, recreation or therapeutic activities, role modelling, parenting support and relief care for the client’s family.

“Our government is continuing to make major investments in programs and services for New Brunswickers, of all ages,” said Fitch. “We are committed to help support workers address issues with their mileage to maintain their important, high-quality services.”