Winnipeg advocates say federal disability benefit still falls short

Winnipeg advocates are voicing concerns about the current Canadian Disability Benefit while applauding federal efforts to improve it. Those changes were outlined in Tuesday’s new federal budget.

David Kron, executive director of the Cerebral Palsy Association of Manitoba, said the process remains too complicated for many people trying to access the benefit.

“People are tired of jumping through hoops,” said Kron.

“I’m glad to see that they need to reduce some of the red tape and get rid of some of the cost. But it’s still a hard benefit to get. And the hoops the people have to jump through.”

The benefit was launched in June 2025, providing Canadians with disabilities with $200 a month. But advocates say that amount is far from enough to support financially struggling Canadians with disabilities.

“Now it’s $19 and a bit in Winnipeg that you have to earn an hour, full-time, to live above the poverty line. We want to just approach the poverty line. So, $200 is almost insulting,” said Kron.

The cost of living is just one of many challenges people with disabilities face. Kron said the situation is even more difficult for those living outside major cities, where travel and accessibility barriers add to daily expenses.

“If you are an individual with low income, who lives in Brandon and you need to come to Winnipeg for services, there’s no Greyhound buses you can catch. You have to find friends and family to carpool with. The barriers are across the board,” said Kron.

In 2023–24, around 27,000 Manitobans relied on Employment and Income Assistance and Manitoba Supports for Persons with Disabilities programs.