Government of New Brunswick

Emergency Fuel and Food Benefit

Social Development

Overview

On December 16, the Government of New Brunswick announced a second Emergency Food and Fuel Benefit. The benefit will again provide financial assistance to eligible low-income individuals and families confronted with the rising cost of living.

Eligibility

The NEW Emergency Food and Fuel Benefit will be administered the same way as the first.

You are eligible for the benefit if you currently receive:
• Social Assistance,
• The New Brunswick Low-Income Seniors’ Benefit (2022), or
• Housing support from Social Development such as:
• public housing
• rural and native housing
• rent supplement, or
• the Canada Housing Benefit.

*NEW – The following groups are now eligible:
• Some clients in the Disability Support Program (DSP) will now be eligible to receive a payment.
• Individuals in the Youth Engagement Services (YES) program.


I received the first Emergency Food and Fuel Benefit; can I receive the second?
Yes, anyone who is currently eligible will receive the new benefit.


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Are you a renter?

You may be eligible for a one-time Canada Housing Benefit payment of $500 from the federal government if your income for 2021 was:
• $35,000 or less for families
• $20,000 or less for individuals
You do not need to receive other housing benefits such as the Canada Housing Benefit to qualify. This benefit is separate from the Emergency Food and Fuel Benefit.

Visit the Government of Canada's website for more information and to apply.

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Description

How do I apply for the Emergency Food and Fuel Benefit?
There is NO application for the Emergency Food and Fuel Benefit. Individuals and families who are eligible will automatically receive the benefit.

What will I get?
The Emergency Fuel and Food Benefit provides a one-time payment of:
• $225 to eligible individuals, or
• $450 to eligible families.

When will I receive the benefit?
Payments are automatic and will be distributed between mid-January 2023 and early February 2023.

How will I receive the benefit?
The benefit will be administered the same way that you currently receive payment from your eligible program.


What if I’m not eligible?

If you are not eligible for the Emergency Food and Fuel benefit, there may be other help available to you.

To learn about other government and community supports, call 2-1-1 or visit nb.211.ca. This service is available 24/7 in 150+ languages.

You can also visit Social Supports NB (SSNB) to apply for other government/community programs and benefits such as:

Other Help for Individuals and Families:

Financial Benefits for Families with Children - The federal and New Brunswick governments have financial benefits to help with the cost of raising your children, funding for post-secondary education and more.

Health Services - The Department of Social Development has a number of programs that loan and buy equipment and help cover the cost of some medical services and supplies for clients.

Social Assistance Program - Social Assistance provides financial support to people who cannot afford basic living costs such as food, clothing, shelter, and other necessities. It also provides access to programs and services to transition to employment.

Prescription Drug Plans - There are two public plans for New Brunswickers who don’t have prescription drug coverage: the New Brunswick Prescription Drug Program and the New Brunswick Drug Plan.

Help for Seniors:

Low Income Seniors Benefit: The Government of New Brunswick offers an annual benefit of $400 to assist low-income seniors.

Long Term Care Program - Are you 65 or older? Are you looking for help to remain in your own home? Or do you want to explore other options such as caregiver supports or residential services? If you do, the Long-Term Care Program can help you explore what services may meet your specific care needs and goals.

Guaranteed Income Supplement - Are you a low-income senior living in Canada? The Government of Canada offers a monthly payment for eligible seniors 65 years and older. Your income, and marital status will determine how much you could receive.

Federal Pension and Benefits Programs for Older Canadians - The Government of Canada has several programs to provide payments and benefits to seniors and retirees. These include pension plans, programs for low-income seniors and benefits for survivors.


New Brunswick Seniors’ Home Renovation Tax Credit - The program helps with the cost of improving the safety and accessibility in your home to promote independent living for seniors.

Help for Housing:

Canada Housing Benefit (CHB) - The Canada-New Brunswick Housing Benefit is a short-term benefit of up to three years. It helps New Brunswick families with children who work part-time or at lower-paying jobs who are struggling to afford rent.

Public Housing and Rent Supplement Programs - If you need affordable, safe and adequate housing, there are programs that can help, including Public Housing and Rent Supplements.

Enhanced Energy Savings Program: Find out how to save money on your electricity and heating bills. You may qualify for free home efficiency upgrades that could reduce your energy costs.