YOUR COMPLETE GUIDE TO FEDERAL PROGRAMS & SERVICES
Every program you are entitled to; with phone numbers, websites, and guide.
| 1. INCOME SUPPORT & PENSIONS |
| If you are a senior, retired, or have low income, these programs provide direct monthly payments. Many residents are eligible but not yet enrolled — our office can help you check and apply. |
Old Age Security (OAS) Monthly payment for Canadians 65 and older who have lived in Canada for at least 10 years. Many people are enrolled automatically at 65 — but not everyone. If you haven't received a letter from Service Canada by your 64th birthday, contact our office. You can also defer OAS to receive a higher monthly amount. Phone: 1-800-277-9914 Website: canada.ca/oas |
Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) A tax-free monthly top-up for OAS recipients with low income. Up to approximately $1,086/month for single seniors (2026). You MUST file your taxes every year to keep receiving GIS. If you missed filing, call our office we can help you catch up and reclaim retroactive payments. Phone: 1-800-277-9914 Website: canada.ca/gis |
Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Retirement, disability, survivor, and children's benefits based on your contributions. Start as early as 60 (reduced) or as late as 70 (increased). Survivor and death benefits also available for spouses and children of CPP contributors. Phone: 1-800-277-9914 Website: canada.ca/cpp |
Allowance & Allowance for the Survivor For low-income Canadians aged 60–64 whose spouse receives GIS, or who are widowed and aged 60–64. Frequently overlooked — if your spouse is on OAS/GIS or you are recently widowed in this age range, you may qualify. Phone: 1-800-277-9914 Website: canada.ca/allowance |
Employment Insurance (EI) — Regular Benefits Income support if you lose your job through no fault of your own. 2025–26 temporary measures for tariff-affected workers include a waived one-week waiting period and up to 20 additional weeks for long-tenured workers. Apply within 4 weeks of your last day of work. Phone: 1-800-206-7218 Website: canada.ca/ei |
EI Maternity & Parental Leave Benefits Up to 15 weeks maternity leave and up to 61 weeks extended parental benefits (or 35 weeks standard). Both biological and adoptive parents qualify. Self-employed people may also be eligible if registered for EI self-employed at least one year prior. Phone: 1-800-206-7218 Website: canada.ca/ei-parental |
| 2. FAMILIES & CHILDREN |
| Federal support for families with children — from monthly child benefit payments to school food and dental care. These programs require you to file your taxes every year, even with no income. |
Canada Child Benefit (CCB) A tax-free monthly payment of up to $7,787/year per child under 6, and up to $6,570/year per child aged 6–17 (2025–26, indexed to inflation). You must file taxes annually to keep receiving CCB. Our office can help if your CCB has been stopped, reduced, or if you haven't yet applied. Phone: 1-800-387-1193 Website: canada.ca/ccb |
Child Disability Benefit (CDB) Additional monthly payment added to CCB for families with a child under 18 with a severe and prolonged physical or mental impairment. Must apply for the Disability Tax Credit first through your child's doctor. Our office can help navigate the DTC application. Phone: 1-800-387-1193 Website: canada.ca/cdb |
National School Food Program Federal support for schools to provide nutritious meals to students. Budget 2025 committed to making this program permanent with $216.6M/year. Delivered through schools and school boards. Contact your child's school to ask whether they participate. Website: canada.ca/school-food |
Canadian Dental Care Plan — Children Under 18 Free or subsidised dental care for children whose families do not have private dental insurance and meet income thresholds. Enrol through Service Canada. Once enrolled, show your card at any participating dental clinic. Phone: 1-833-537-4342 Website: canada.ca/dental |
EI — Death or Disappearance of a Child Income support for parents who must leave work to cope with the death or disappearance of a child as a result of a crime. Rarely publicised and deeply important for families in crisis. Our office can provide guidance and support the application. Phone: 1-800-206-7218 Website: canada.ca/ei-critical-child |
Canada Learning Bond (CLB) Up to $2,000 deposited into a child's RESP — with no contribution required from the family. Available to children born after January 1, 2004 in low-income families. Open a free RESP at any bank or credit union to receive it. Phone: 1-888-276-3624 Website: canada.ca/clb |
| 3. HEALTH & DENTAL CARE |
| In addition to provincial health coverage, several federal health programs serve residents of Churchill–Keewatinook Aski — including dental, mental health, and residential schools health support. |
Canadian Dental Care Plan — Seniors Free or subsidised dental care for eligible seniors based on age and family net income. Apply through Service Canada online, by phone, or in person. Find a participating dentist using the search tool online. Phone: 1-833-537-4342 Website: canada.ca/dental |
Indian Residential Schools — Resolution Health Support Program Mental health support, cultural support workers, crisis counsellors, and health supports for former residential school students and their families. Available across Canada including mobile and community-based support in the North. The 24-hour National Crisis Line is always available. Crisis Line (24/7): 1-866-925-4419 Website: sac-isc.gc.ca/IRS-health |
Hope for Wellness Help Line Immediate mental health counselling and crisis intervention for all Indigenous people across Canada, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Available in English, French, Cree, Ojibway, and Inuktitut upon request. 24/7 Line: 1-855-242-3310 Website: hopeforwellness.ca |
| 4. INDIGENOUS PROGRAMS & SERVICES |
| Churchill–Keewatinook Aski is home to dozens of First Nations communities. Our office maintains direct contacts at Indigenous Services Canada and can advocate on your behalf for any of these programs. |
Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) Coverage for registered First Nations and Inuit for drugs, dental, vision, medical supplies and equipment, mental health counselling, and medical transportation — when not covered by provincial plans. Administered through Indigenous Services Canada. Client Info Line: 1-800-640-0642 Website: sac-isc.gc.ca/nihb Dental: 1-888-283-8885 |
Jordan's Principle Ensures First Nations children receive the government-funded services they need, without being denied or delayed because of jurisdictional disputes. Covers health, social, and educational supports. If a child needs a service and it isn't being provided, call immediately — do not wait. Call Centre: 1-855-JP-CHILD (1-855-572-4453) Website: sac-isc.gc.ca/jordans-principle |
On-Reserve Income Assistance Basic financial assistance for low-income individuals and families living on reserve. Delivered by band councils under federal funding. Contact your band office or ISC for rates and eligibility. ISC General: 1-800-567-9604 Website: sac-isc.gc.ca/income-assistance |
First Nations Post-Secondary Student Support Program Funding for post-secondary education for status First Nations students. Delivered through band offices. Eligibility and amounts vary by community. Contact your band education office for information on what is available. ISC General: 1-800-567-9604 Website: sac-isc.gc.ca/post-secondary |
Sunrise over and Inuksuk (inukshuk) the shore of Hudson Bay at Churchill, Manitoba, Canada
Drinking Water on Reserve — Infrastructure & Advisories Federal government investment in ending long-term drinking water advisories on reserve. If your community is under a drinking water advisory, contact ISC and your band council. Our office monitors water advisory status across CKA communities. ISC General: 1-800-567-9604 Website: sac-isc.gc.ca/water |
On-Reserve Housing Programs (ISC & CMHC) ISC provides funding to First Nations for construction, renovation, and maintenance of housing on reserve. CMHC's Indigenous Housing Centre also operates the On-Reserve Non-Profit Housing Program. Contact your band office or CMHC. CMHC Indigenous: 1-800-668-2642 Website: cmhc.ca/indigenous-housing |
Indigenous Business Development & Federal Procurement The federal government has committed to awarding at least 5% of federal contracts to Indigenous businesses. The Indigenous Business Directory lists certified businesses eligible for set-aside federal procurement. Our office can connect you with PSPC and ISC contacts. ISC General: 1-800-567-9604 Website: sac-isc.gc.ca/indigenous-business |
Indigenous Early Learning and Child Care (IELCC) Federal funding for culturally appropriate early learning and child care programs in First Nations, Inuit, and Métis Nation communities. Programs are designed and delivered by Indigenous communities. Contact your band or Indigenous organisation for local program details. ISC General: 1-800-567-9604 Website: canada.ca/ielcc |
| Indigenous Services Canada — Manitoba Region
General Enquiries: 1-800-567-9604 | Email: [email protected] Hours: Monday to Friday, 9 am – 6 pm Eastern | Website: sac-isc.gc.ca Note: Our office maintains direct contacts at ISC Manitoba. If you are experiencing delays or problems with any ISC program, please call us first. |
| 5. EMPLOYMENT, SKILLS & TRAINING |
| Federal programs supporting workers, job seekers, apprentices, and young people across the riding — from retraining supports to summer employment funding for local employers. |
Canada Summer Jobs Wage subsidies for employers who hire youth aged 15–30 during summer. Non-profits, small businesses, and public sector organisations in our riding can apply. Our office can help local employers navigate the application. Website: canada.ca/summer-jobs |
Youth Employment and Skills Strategy (YESS) Supports youth facing barriers to employment including Indigenous youth, those in rural areas, and youth with disabilities. Contact Service Canada to find a YESS-funded service provider near you. Phone: 1-800-622-6232 Website: canada.ca/yess |
Apprenticeship Incentive Grant & Completion Grant The Apprenticeship Incentive Grant ($1,000/year) and Apprenticeship Completion Grant ($2,000) support registered apprentices in Red Seal trades. Apply through CRA after completing each year or upon completion of your apprenticeship. Phone: 1-800-959-8281 Website: canada.ca/apprenticeship-grants |
Indigenous Skills and Employment Training (ISET) Funded training and employment services delivered by Indigenous organisations. In Manitoba, multiple ISET agreement holders serve different First Nations and urban Indigenous populations. Contact ESDC for a referral to the right program holder. Phone: 1-800-622-6232 Website: canada.ca/iset |
Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities Helps persons with disabilities prepare for, obtain, and maintain employment or self-employment. Ask at your local Service Canada office for the Opportunities Fund provider in your community. Phone: 1-800-622-6232 Website: canada.ca/opportunities-fund |
Work-Sharing Program Allows employers to reduce employee hours and have workers collect partial EI benefits, rather than laying people off. Extended measures for 2025–26 are in place for workers and employers affected by tariff-related economic uncertainty. Phone: 1-800-367-5693 Website: canada.ca/work-sharing |
| 6. HOUSING & COMMUNITY INFRASTRUCTURE |
| Federal housing programs for homeowners, renters, First Nations communities, and northern infrastructure. Our office works directly with CMHC and ISC on these files. |
First Home Savings Account (FHSA) A tax-free savings account to help first-time buyers save for a home. Contributions are tax-deductible (like an RRSP) and withdrawals for home purchase are tax-free (like a TFSA). Contribute up to $8,000/year, $40,000 lifetime. CRA: 1-800-959-8281 Website: canada.ca/fhsa |
Canada Housing Benefit (CHB) A direct payment to eligible low-income renters to help cover the cost of housing. Delivered through Manitoba Housing provincially. Contact Manitoba Housing to apply for your provincial CHB allocation. CMHC: 1-800-668-2642 Website: cmhc.ca/chb |
Build Communities Strong Fund (BCSF) New $51 billion fund announced in Budget 2025 for housing, roads, water services, and healthcare infrastructure over 10 years. Churchill–Keewatinook Aski communities are well-positioned to benefit. Contact our office if your community has infrastructure needs. Website: canada.ca/infrastructure |
CMHC Renovation & Affordable Housing Programs Low-interest loans and grants for affordable housing construction and renovation, including for northern and remote housing. CMHC's Indigenous Housing Centre handles all First Nations and Indigenous housing streams. Contact our office for referrals. CMHC: 1-800-668-2642 Website: cmhc.ca/funding |
| 7. VETERANS & THEIR FAMILIES |
| Our riding includes veterans of the Canadian Armed Forces and RCMP who have earned every benefit listed here. Our office will advocate with Veterans Affairs on your behalf. |
Disability Pension & Benefits (VAC) Financial compensation for a service-related injury, illness, or disability — including Pain and Suffering Compensation, Income Replacement Benefit, and the Disability Award. Apply through My VAC Account online or call VAC. VAC: 1-866-522-2122 Website: veterans.gc.ca/disability |
Education & Training Benefit (VAC) Up to $80,000 for education after releasing from service (6+ years of service). Can be used for university, college, trade school, or apprenticeships. Also available to eligible survivors. Apply through My VAC Account. VAC: 1-866-522-2122 Website: veterans.gc.ca/education |
Caregiver Recognition Benefit $1,089.58/month (2025) tax-free to informal caregivers of seriously injured veterans. Recognises spouses, family members, and others providing care. Apply through My VAC Account. VAC: 1-866-522-2122 Website: veterans.gc.ca/caregiver |
Veterans Emergency Fund Up to $10,000 for veterans facing financial hardship due to an emergency situation. Fast-tracked review. If you or a veteran you know is in immediate financial crisis, call VAC right away. VAC: 1-866-522-2122 Website: veterans.gc.ca/emergency |
VAC Assistance Service & OSI Clinics Free, confidential mental health support 24/7 for veterans, RCMP, and their families. Operational Stress Injury (OSI) Clinics provide specialised care for PTSD, depression, and anxiety related to military service. Crisis/Counselling (24/7): 1-800-268-7708 Website: veterans.gc.ca/mental-health |
| 8. IMMIGRATION, REFUGEES & CITIZENSHIP |
| Our office regularly assists constituents with immigration inquiries and delays. We can contact IRCC on your behalf for cases taking unreasonably long. |
Citizenship Application Apply for Canadian citizenship after meeting physical presence requirements. If your application has been waiting longer than the published processing time, our office can submit a ministerial inquiry on your behalf. IRCC: 1-888-242-2100 Website: canada.ca/citizenship |
Family Sponsorship (Permanent Residence) Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor a spouse, partner, child, or other eligible family members. Our office can write support letters and assist with navigating sponsorship delays. IRCC: 1-888-242-2100 Website: canada.ca/family-sponsorship |
Passport Services Apply for a new or renewal passport through Service Canada. Urgent processing (same-day or next-day) is available for documented travel emergencies. Our office can provide a letter of urgency and guidance on expedited processing. Phone: 1-800-567-6868 Website: canada.ca/passport |
Settlement Services & Language Training (LINC) Federal funding supports settlement organisations that provide language training (LINC), employment support, and orientation to newcomers. Ask at your local Service Canada office for funded settlement service providers near you. IRCC: 1-888-242-2100 Website: canada.ca/settlement |
| 9. STUDENT FINANCIAL AID |
| Federal student aid does not need to be repaid for eligible students. Post-secondary education is an investment in the future of our communities and our riding. |
Canada Student Grant (CSG) Non-repayable grants for full-time and part-time students with demonstrated financial need. Apply through the National Student Loans Service Centre (NSLSC). Note: Budget 2025 decreased the Canada Student Grant amount — contact our office for updated figures. NSLSC: 1-888-815-4514 Website: canada.ca/student-grants |
Canada Student Loan Low-interest loans for eligible students who need additional help beyond grants. The Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) allows graduates with low income to have payments reduced or waived. Apply through your provincial student aid office. NSLSC: 1-888-815-4514 Website: canada.ca/student-loans |
Canada Apprenticeship Loan Interest-free loans of up to $4,000 per period of technical training for registered apprentices in Red Seal trades. Apply through the NSLSC while registered as an apprentice with your provincial authority. NSLSC: 1-888-815-4514 Website: canada.ca/apprenticeship-loan |
Canada Education Savings Grant (CESG) The government adds 20% (up to $500/year) on the first $2,500 contributed to a child's RESP. Low-income families receive an additional 10–20% on the first $500. Open a free RESP at any bank — there is no cost to families to start. Phone: 1-888-276-3624 Website: canada.ca/cesg |
| 10. DISABILITY SUPPORT & ACCESSIBILITY |
| Federal disability programs provide financial and practical support to Canadians with severe and prolonged disabilities. The Disability Tax Credit (DTC) is the gateway to most other benefits — our office can help if your DTC application has been denied. |
Disability Tax Credit (DTC) A non-refundable tax credit that reduces the income tax you owe — and unlocks access to the Canada Disability Benefit, Child Disability Benefit, RDSP, and more. Your doctor or nurse practitioner must certify the disability on Form T2201. CRA: 1-800-959-8281 Website: canada.ca/dtc |
Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) A new benefit launched in 2025 providing up to $2,400/year to low-income working-age Canadians with an approved DTC certificate. Budget 2025 added a one-time supplemental payment of $150 for DTC certificate holders. CRA: 1-800-959-2809 Website: canada.ca/cdb-disability |
Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) Long-term savings plan with government grants (up to $3,500/year) and bonds (up to $1,000/year for low-income families) that do not need to be repaid. Contributions grow tax-sheltered. Open through any major bank using the T2201 certificate. CRA: 1-800-959-8281 Website: canada.ca/rdsp |
CPP Disability Benefit Monthly benefit for Canadians under 65 with a severe and prolonged disability who have made sufficient CPP contributions. Children of approved applicants also receive a monthly benefit. Our office can assist if your application is delayed or denied. Service Canada: 1-800-277-9914 Website: canada.ca/cpp-disability |
| 11. SMALL BUSINESS, FARMERS & NORTHERN ECONOMY |
| Programs for small businesses, entrepreneurs, farmers, and northern community economic development — including Indigenous-owned businesses and those in remote or rural areas. |
Canada Small Business Financing Program (CSBFP) Helps small businesses access loans of up to $1.15 million from financial institutions for equipment, leasehold improvements, and real property. The federal government shares the risk with lenders. Apply at your local bank or credit union. ISED: 1-800-328-6189 Website: ic.gc.ca/csbfp |
AgriStability & AgriInvest Programs Federal-provincial programs protecting farmers from large declines in income. AgriStability provides disaster-level support; AgriInvest is a savings-matching program. Administered jointly with Manitoba Agriculture. Call AAFC for eligibility information. AAFC: 1-877-246-4682 Website: canada.ca/agristability |
CanNor — Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency Economic development funding and support for northern Canada. Mandate includes economic development initiatives that can benefit CKA communities through partnerships. Our office can provide referrals and grant navigation support. Phone: 1-855-296-1150 Website: cannor.gc.ca |
NRC Industrial Research Assistance Program (IRAP) Funding and advisory services for small and medium-sized businesses investing in innovation and technology. An NRC IRAP Industrial Technology Advisor can assess your business at no cost and identify applicable programs. Phone: 1-877-994-4727 Website: nrc.canada.ca/irap |
| 12. TAX BENEFITS & CREDITS |
| Many federal tax credits and refundable benefits are only available if you file a tax return — even if you had no income. We strongly encourage every resident to file taxes each year. |
| Benefit / Credit | Who It's For | How to Access | CRA Phone |
| GST/HST Credit | Low & modest income Canadians | Automatic when you file taxes | 1-800-959-1953 |
| Canada Carbon Rebate | All Canadian residents in eligible provinces | Automatic when you file taxes | 1-800-959-8281 |
| Northern Residents Deduction | People who lived in prescribed northern zones — CKA communities are included. Check Zone A or B. | Claim on annual tax return | 1-800-959-8281 |
| Home Accessibility Tax Credit | Seniors, persons with disabilities, caregivers — up to $10,000 in eligible expenses | Claim on annual tax return | 1-800-959-8281 |
| Medical Expense Tax Credit | Anyone with significant medical expenses | Claim on annual tax return | 1-800-959-8281 |
| Canada Workers Benefit (CWB) | Low-income workers — refundable, paid quarterly in advance | File taxes; advance payments sent automatically | 1-800-959-8281 |
| Climate Action Incentive — Rural Supplement | Rural residents receive 20% supplement automatically | File taxes; tick the rural/small community box | 1-800-959-8281 |
| Volunteer Firefighters & SAR Tax Credit | Volunteer firefighters & search and rescue volunteers — 15% of $3,000 = $450 | Claim on annual tax return | 1-800-959-8281 |
| Disability Tax Credit (DTC) | Persons with severe/prolonged disabilities — gateway to other benefits | T2201 certified by doctor; apply through CRA | 1-800-959-8281 |
| First Nations Tax Exemption | Status First Nations — income earned on reserve may be exempt under s.87 Indian Act | Claim through CRA; band office can advise | 1-800-959-8281 |
| Free Tax Clinics in Churchill–Keewatinook Aski
The Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP) offers FREE tax filing for eligible residents with modest income. Clinics are held at community centres, band offices, and Service Canada locations across the riding. Find a free clinic: canada.ca/free-tax-clinics | CRA: 1-800-959-8281 Our office can identify mobile tax clinic options for remote communities — call us and we will connect you. |
| Need Help? Contact Our Constituency Office — Free for Every Resident
305-83 Churchil Drive, Thompson MB, R8N 0L6 Mon–Fri 8:00 am–4:00 pm CT
Miigwech · Kinana'skomitin · Pidamaya ye · Mahsi cho · Nakurmiik · Merci · Thank you |