Author Description

This study was designed to assess the provision of non-cash benefits to women with disabilities and single mothers. The intent was to show the advantages, in both financial and human terms, of extending support while women are employed temporarily, part time or in home-based employment. Focus groups were held in British Columbia and Ontario to ask women, who were either receiving income assistance or working, what benefits would mean to them. The financial costs of returning to work were also calculated. The report includes recommendations that address the following areas: day care services; health benefits; housing and transportation; job training; guaranteed income/pension; permanent disability designation; debt relief; funding infrastructure.