Income assistance in N.S. pegged to consumer price index

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Ash Avery’s comments are in reaction to the new system that begins this year, in which rates will be raised annually based on the consumer price index.

The province says income assistance rates are to rise this year by 3.1 per cent, after they were increased by 2.5 per cent in July.

Avery, head of Feed Nova Scotia, says the province is dealing with a cost of living crisis and many Nova Scotians are struggling to afford food and housing.

Feed Nova Scotia is providing food to more than 23,000 people in need every month.

Scott Armstrong, Minister of Opportunities and Social Development, says the new system offers people reliable support to afford necessities.