We are pleased to advise you that the Government of Canada has announced the activation of the extension of the Compassionate Care Benefit (CCB) from six to 26 weeks. Effective January 3, 2016, caregivers can now claim up to $13,624 in benefits, where previously it was $3,144. We hope this announcement will now relieve some of the financial burden related to this disease.
Since 2013, ALS Societies across Canada have been advocating for an extension of the CCB from six to 35 weeks and for eligibility upon diagnosis. Although this is a great step forward, we recognize that better support for ALS families is urgently needed. We will continue to lobby and influence the federal government to continue to make more meaningful changes towards the CCB to reach the goal towards the full 35 weeks.
This recent announcement indicates that our voices were heard and the government responded. Together, we will stay the course, championing to help families all across Canada fighting ALS.
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Donations allow people living with ALS to receive one-on-one guidance and in-home assistance, access to life-enhancing equipment, and have compassionate community support.