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By Josh Hall | @Vancan19

AISH & ADAP

UCP put call out for public feedback on disability support programs

Aug 13, 2025 | 4:57 PM

The Government of Alberta is asking citizens to give feedback on the future of its new Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP).

They claim in a release Wednesday that it’s become clear organizations want supports to meet unique needs and abilities, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach like the one currently offered by Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH).

In January, the government announced plans for ADAP, to be offered in addition to AISH.

“People with disabilities shouldn’t have to choose between getting the support they need and having the opportunity to pursue a meaningful career,” says Jason Nixon, Minister of Assisted Living.

“That’s why we’re introducing the new Alberta Disability Assistance Program – so Albertans with disabilities aren’t punished for getting a job. We’ve heard loud and clear that this is an important step, and we’re grateful for the engagement from Albertans to help us get this right.”

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This push for public feedback comes at a time when many Albertans — those on AISH and their caregivers and/or families — have expressed concerns over the UCP’s decision to make the federal AISH top-up non-exempt.

This means an Albertan AISH recipient, who is single, collecting the regular monthly sum of $1,901 will still get the same amount, because the $200 from Ottawa allows the province to lower its contribution dollar-for-dollar.

rdnewsNOW reported on this in April.

Engagement will be held throughout August and into September:

• Aug. 13 to Sept. 12: A public survey will be open at alberta.ca/alberta-disability-assistance-program-engagement.
• Aug. 13 to Sept. 12: A discussion guide will be available in pdf and video formats for Albertans to review and provide feedback online or via mail.
• Early September: Public telephone town halls will provide Albertans with more information about ADAP and answer questions. Dates and times for the townhalls will be posted on alberta.ca/alberta-disability-assistance-program-engagement and on YourAlberta social media channels.
• Early September: Roundtable engagement sessions with disability service providers and advocacy organizations.

Engagement will focus on five topic areas:

• program eligibility
• applications, adjudication and appeals
• benefits, income and asset exemptions
• employment supports and expectations
• client transitions

Learn more and participate in engagement at alberta.ca/alberta-disability-assistance-program-engagement.

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