Foster Care Appreciation Week

Hello,

Today, my colleague the Minister of Finance and Treasury Board, tabled the 2014-2015 provincial budget.

I would like to thank the many people in our Department that worked so hard to prepare material that assisted in the budget process.

This is a budget that solidifies our foundation moving forward to provide vulnerable individuals and families with the supports and services they need. I believe this budget is a testament to your hard work. Nova Scotia is facing challenging economic times yet Community Services has received $4.5 million in new money to invest in Family Resource Centres, Transition Houses, Women’s Centers, Second Stage Housing and the development of Sexual Violence Strategy.

The Province will help 300 more seniors stay in their own homes with $1.5 million in additional supports for repairs and upgrades.

Foster families deserve support and appreciation for the significant contribution they make to the lives of Nova Scotia’s children in care. This budget includes $360,000 in funding to better support foster families and the great work they do for children in care.

This Government is also committed to supporting the Disability Support Program Transformation. That’s why funding has been allocated and will be available to support this important work.

In the coming days and weeks the legislature will begin debate and passage of the budget. I want to thank all of you for the work you do every day to support Nova Scotians. I know it is not always easy but I want you to know I feel privileged to have the opportunity to serve alongside you and help deliver services and supports to those vulnerable Nova Scotians who rely on our help.

I invite you to read more about the provincial and department budget at: novascotia.ca

Thank you,

Hon. Joanne Bernard
Minister