Intake experience for Disability Support Program

On March 12, 2021   /   News  

The Department of Community Services (DCS) has implemented a new Intake Function. This new function focuses on re-defining the Intake experience for Disability Support Program (DSP) and Employment Support and Income Assistance (ESIA) applicants in a way that is needs-focused, support-driven and enhances the overall experience people have during Intake.

The new Intake Function will be a consolidated unit, with services delivered by a dedicated team of specialized Intake Caseworkers. A consolidated model means a more streamlined and consistent approach to Intake, which puts people and their needs first.

The Intake Function will be responsible for working with applicants and re-applicants to help determine which programs and services, including external resources, may best meet their needs. For DSP, the Intake Function will complete needs determination and registration, and if appropriate, assign an applicant to a Care Coordinator in their local office. It is important to note that financial eligibility will continue to be determined by Care Coordinators.

To expand access and better meet people’s needs, we’ll be providing a multi-channel approach to apply for Intake:
• by calling any DCS office or 1-877-424-1177 – callers will have the option to be routed to the next available Intake Caseworker
• by visiting any DCS office – upon arrival, they will be directed to an interview room where they will be connected, by phone, with an Intake Caseworker (in-person support will be provided when needed)
• through an online application option in the future – this option will be in addition to the phone & in-person services
These new channels mean that someone living at one end of the province will have access to the same services as someone living at another end of the province.

If you have any questions about these changes, please do not hesitate to contact us. We can be reached at 1-902-424-0932 between 8:30am – 4:30pm Monday to Friday, or by sending an email to <a href=”mailto:CCSU@novascotia.ca”>CCSU@novascotia.ca</a>.

 

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Pair N’ Share

On June 4, 2020   /   Events, News and Events  

Due to Covid-19 restrictions, we were unable to hold our very popular annual Wine and Chocolate event in May. But don’t despair because we have decided to bring decadent Wine and Chocolate to you in a different way!
Order from our special Pair N’ Share (click here to go to our event site) website, where you can choose to pair local fine handcrafted chocolate from Petite Patrie Chocolate with wine from Planter’s Ridge Winery both located in the beautiful Annapolis Valley.
You can purchase one of our handpicked packages or create your own pairings. The sky’s the limit! Support local and treat yourself at the same time!
Order until June 30th*

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Wine & Chocolate Tasting

On February 11, 2020   /   Events, News and Events  

Wine and Chocolate TastingOn Friday, May 22, 2020, our supporters will enjoy a Friday evening culinary indulgences – Wine & Chocolate! Presented by McKiggan Hebert Lawyers. Join us at Casino Nova Scotia will be filled with booths of specially selected wine and chocolate delicacies, mouthwatering appetizers, and special attraction vendors and activities to keep you engaged.

 

This evening of Wine & Chocolate Tasting typically sells out so be sure to reserve your spot today!

Tickets On Sale

Tickets are available either from

Buy Now

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Addressing Stigma: Chief Public Health Officer’s Annual Report on the State of Public Health in Canada

On January 15, 2020   /   Events, News and Events  

The Public Health Agency of Canada would appreciate your help in raising awareness about The Chief Public Health Officer’s Report on the State of Public Health in Canada 2019: Addressing Stigma: Towards a More Inclusive Health System.

 

This report looks at health trends in Canada, and focuses on understanding and addressing the impact of stigma on our health.

 

Stigma is a fundamental cause of health inequity. It blocks access to health services, negatively affects both mental and physical health, and exposes people to violence and trauma. It also keeps people away from the resources they need to live a healthy life, such as having housing, an income and accessible health services.

 

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Medical Assistance In Dying Consultation

On January 15, 2020   /   News, News and Events  

Please be aware that the Gov. of Canada is conducting a consultation on medical assistance in dying. They have released a questionnaire for people and organizations to provide best advice. There is a short turnaround for replies, two weeks.

I encourage you and your members to complete the questionnaire below.

https://www.justice.gc.ca/eng/cons/ad-am/index.html

Here is an article for review if you want more information on this issue.

https://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/consultations-medical-aid-in-dying-1.5422850

 

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Try Wheelchair Curling

On September 17, 2019   /   Events, News and Events  

On Saturday October 5th, 2019 NS Wheelchair Curling will be holding a “Try Wheelchair Curling” event at Lakeshore Curling Club starting at 3.00pm and ending at 5.00pm.

Lakeshore Curling Club is located in the Sackville Sports Stadium at 409 Glendale Avenue in Lower Sackville. It has plenty of parking and is served by Access-A-Bus.
Did I mention this event is FREE! Yes the FREE KIND!
Just wear a warm jacket, bring gloves and “if” you use a seatbelt on your wheelchair please bring that as well. No open toed shoes are permitted on the ice.

We will supply the necessary equipment.

Spread the word!

NS Wheelchair Curling has a Facebook site “Nova Scotia Wheelchair Curling”. Give us a tweet if you are on twitter. Spread the word! These kinds of opportunities “The Free Kind” do not come around often these days.

The time is now! We can be contacted at curlingwheelchair@gmail.com or by telephone at 902-456-8192.

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2019 Annual General Meeting

On June 17, 2019   /   Events, News and Events  

Tuesday, June 25th, 2019

RE: Announcement -67th Annual General Meeting 2019

The Canadian Paraplegic Association (Nova Scotia) invites you to attend the 2019 Annual General Meeting. This meeting will be held at the Meadows facility at Mount Saint Vincent University.

Please be advised the meeting is at 6:00 pm.
Please RSVP by phone, Barb Manuge 902-423-1277 (local) or Nancy Beaton at 902-423-8087 and 1-800-889-1889 (toll-free), or by email, nbeaton@canparaplegic.org

Lastly, we would like to remind current members to renew your Membership when it is due—at a cost of $20.00.
Please be advised that only those with Active Membership will have voting privileges at the AGM.

We thank you for your continued support and look forward to seeing you at the AGM.

http://www.msvu.ca/en/home/aboutus/emergencyproceduresguide/campusmap.aspx

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Halifax has an Affordable Access Program

On May 21, 2019   /   News, News and Events  
Halifax has an Affordable Access Program

Did you know Halifax has an Affordable Access Program, which includes the Low Income Transit Pass for using bus services? You may be eligible for this reduced cost bus pass or other services provided through the Affordable Access Program. Applications are open as of Tuesday, May 21 for the Affordable Access Program. To learn if you qualify, and to fill out the application form, call 311 or visit halifax.ca/affordableaccess. If you require any assistance with the Affordable Access Program your CPA Community Client Services Counsellor is available to assist you.

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Canada Learning Bond

On April 12, 2019   /   News, News and Events  
Canada Learning Bond

Halifax Super Clinic: Saturday, April 13, 2019; 10:00 am to 3:00 pm, Captain William Spry Community Center, 16 Sussex Street
Dartmouth Super Clinic: Tuesday, April 16, 2019; 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm, Dartmouth North Community Food Center, 140-6 Primrose Street

The Department of Community Services (DCS) is invested in the future of our children and breaking the cycle of poverty for Nova Scotian families. We know that post-secondary education savings can have a significant impact in increasing the likelihood a child will further their education past high school.

This is why DCS is proud to partner with the Community Volunteer Income Tax Program, Employment and Social Development Canada, Service Canada, SmartSAVER community project, and Service Nova Scotia to help Nova Scotian children from low and modest-income families receive money for their post-secondary education through the Canada Learning Bond.

The Canada Learning Bond (CLB) is a grant paid by the federal government providing between $500 and $2000 to eligible children for their post-secondary education, paid into Registered Education Savings Plans (RESP) at no cost to families.

To date, the majority of eligible Nova Scotian families are not yet receiving CLB money. DCS is working to change that by building awareness and facilitating access. With our partners, we are helping families learn about and register for the CLB online and in person. Families can visit www.novascotiaclb.ca or go to one of five “Super Clinics” throughout the province where DCS staff will be on site to answer questions and help families register for the CLB. At the super clinics, families can also get help filing taxes, applying for SINs, and learning about benefits and services provided by Service Nova Scotia.

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You can learn more about this at www.novascotiaclb.ca.

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Accessible Parking

On April 3, 2019   /   News, News and Events  
Accessible Parking

Lists of accessible parking spaces in Halifax and Dartmouth:

Maps of accessible parking spaces in Halifax and Dartmouth:

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