New Brunswick Benefits & Assistance Programs
Explore verified New Brunswick and Canada government resources for health coverage, income assistance, child and family benefits, housing support, disability programs, and food help through community services. Find official links, eligibility basics, and where to apply for programs available to New Brunswick residents.
Food Assistance
Food banks, community meals & emergency food support
🩺Medical & Health
Medicare coverage, clinics & health services
💰Income Assistance
Social Assistance & financial support programs
🏠Housing & Rent Help
Housing support, rent help & emergency shelters
👨👩👧Child & Family
Canada child benefits & NB family supports
🍎 Food Assistance in New Brunswick
New Brunswick residents can access food support mainly through community-based food programs that help individuals and families facing financial hardship or food insecurity.
Across New Brunswick, support is provided through food banks, community kitchens, meal programs, and emergency grocery services. These services are typically offered by nonprofit organizations, faith groups, and community agencies, and may be available on a short-term or ongoing basis depending on need and local availability.
🍎 Food Assistance in New Brunswick
Food support in New Brunswick is mainly provided through community-based services such as food banks, community kitchens, meal programs, and emergency grocery assistance. If you need food urgently, local food banks and community organizations are often the fastest way to get help.
Emergency Food Help (Fastest Options)
- Food banks & grocery assistance: Free groceries based on availability and local intake rules.
- Meal programs: Free or low-cost meals offered by community organizations.
- Community pantries: Local nonprofits, churches, and community groups providing food support.
How to Find Food Near You
Use the resources below to search by city or region. These services can help you locate food banks, meal programs, and emergency food supports across New Brunswick.
1) 211 New Brunswick — Food Support
- Search for food help: Find food banks, meal programs, and community supports in New Brunswick
2) Food Banks Canada — New Brunswick Locations
- Food bank directories: Find a food bank or food assistance organization in New Brunswick
What to Bring (Common Requirements)
Requirements vary by provider. Some locations may ask for identification, proof of address, or basic household information. If unsure, call ahead before visiting.
Tips for Getting Help Quickly
- Call ahead to confirm hours, intake rules, and food availability.
- Ask about delivery or pickup options if transportation is a challenge.
- If one location is at capacity, try another provider listed through 211 New Brunswick.
📍 Find Food Near You
- 211 New Brunswick: Community & Food Supports — search by city or region.
- Food Banks Canada: Find a Food Bank — national directory including New Brunswick locations.
- Search your city + “food bank” or “free groceries.”
- Check community centres, churches, and nonprofit organizations.
📝 Quick Notes
- Some programs require appointments or have scheduled distribution days.
- Hours may change due to demand or holidays.
- Availability can vary between regions and communities.
Disclaimer: OBenefitFinder is an independent informational website and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with the Government of Canada, the Government of New Brunswick, or any government agency. Information may change—always confirm details using official sources and local food providers.
🏥 Medical & Health Coverage in New Brunswick (NB Medicare & Health Programs)
New Brunswick provides access to publicly funded healthcare for eligible residents through New Brunswick Medicare and related provincial health services. These programs help residents access essential medical care across the province.
Depending on eligibility and individual needs, coverage and services may include doctor visits, hospital care, preventive services, mental health supports, and additional care through hospitals, community health centres, and clinics. Coverage and benefits can change—always confirm details using official New Brunswick government sources.
🚨 Medical Emergency: If you or someone else is experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately. Do not delay urgent care or rely on online information.
🏥 Medical & Health Coverage in New Brunswick (NB Medicare & Health Services)
New Brunswick provides access to publicly funded healthcare for eligible residents through New Brunswick Medicare and related provincial health services. These programs help eligible residents access essential medical care across the province.
🩺 What New Brunswick Health Coverage May Include
Coverage and services can vary, but may include:
- Visits with doctors, nurse practitioners, and primary care providers
- Hospital care and medically necessary procedures
- Emergency department services and urgent care
- Preventive care, screenings, and diagnostic tests
- Mental health and substance-use supports through provincial and community services
- Additional services through hospitals, clinics, and community health centres
👨👩👧 Who May Be Eligible
You may qualify for New Brunswick Medicare if you:
- Live in New Brunswick and meet residency requirements
- Are a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or otherwise eligible resident
- Meet provincial Medicare eligibility rules
- Are a child, senior, or person with a disability (for certain services)
📊 Eligibility & Coverage Rules
Eligibility rules and covered services may change and depend on residency status. Always review official guidance to confirm current requirements: New Brunswick Medicare Eligibility .
🧾 Documents You May Need
- Government-issued photo ID
- Proof of New Brunswick residency
- Immigration or residency documents (if applicable)
- New Brunswick Medicare card information
🖥️ How to Apply or Get Help
Online:
- Apply for or update Medicare coverage: New Brunswick Medicare (GNB)
- Replace or update your Medicare card: Medicare Card Services
Phone / Support:
- Tele-Care 811 (health advice 24/7): Tele-Care 811 (New Brunswick)
- Medicare contact information: Contact New Brunswick Medicare
⏳ Processing & Access
Processing times and access to services can vary. If you have urgent medical needs, seek care immediately and ask healthcare providers about available options in your area.
💡 If You Are Not Covered
- Ask about community health centres, walk-in clinics, and urgent care options
- Call 811 for guidance on services near you
- Confirm temporary or alternative coverage options if you are new to New Brunswick
⚠️ Disclaimer
OBenefitFinder is an independent informational website and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with the Government of Canada, the Government of New Brunswick, New Brunswick Medicare, or any government agency. Eligibility rules, coverage, and program details may change—always confirm information using official New Brunswick government sources.
💰 Income Assistance in New Brunswick
New Brunswick provides financial assistance to eligible residents who need help covering basic living expenses during periods of low or no income.
Support may be available through programs such as Social Assistance and other provincial income support programs, depending on your income, household situation, and residency status. Eligibility rules and benefit amounts vary—always check official New Brunswick government sources for the most current details.
💰 Main Income Assistance Programs in New Brunswick
1. Social Assistance (Income Assistance)
Social Assistance in New Brunswick provides financial help for eligible individuals and families who cannot meet basic living expenses due to low or no income. Support is intended to help with essential needs while individuals work toward stability.
Who May Qualify- New Brunswick residents with limited income and assets
- Individuals or families experiencing financial hardship
- People who are unemployed or temporarily unable to work
- Applicants who meet provincial eligibility requirements
- Applications are managed through the Government of New Brunswick
- Support may help with basic needs and shelter-related costs
- Some recipients may be referred to employment and support services
👉 Official program information: Social Assistance (Government of New Brunswick)
2. Extended Benefits & Specialized Supports
Some individuals may qualify for additional supports depending on their situation, including supports for persons with disabilities, medical needs, or special circumstances, as determined by program rules.
Who May Qualify- Applicants with ongoing or complex needs
- Individuals with medical or disability-related limitations
- Households meeting additional eligibility criteria
- Eligibility is assessed based on individual circumstances
- Approved applicants may receive ongoing financial assistance
- Additional supports may be provided when required
📊 Eligibility & Payment Notes
Eligibility and payment amounts depend on your household situation and may change over time. Always rely on official New Brunswick government information for the most accurate details.
- Household income and assets are reviewed
- Living arrangements and family size may affect eligibility
- Additional supports may be available in certain cases
*To avoid outdated information, benefit amounts are not listed here.
🧾 Documents You May Need
- Government-issued photo ID
- Proof of New Brunswick residency
- Income or bank information
- Details about household members (if applicable)
- Medical or supporting documentation (if required)
📝 How to Apply
1. Apply for Social Assistance- Apply through the Government of New Brunswick or a regional Social Development office
👉 Apply / start here: How to Apply for Social Assistance (GNB)
2. Manage or Update Your File- Contact your assigned case worker or regional office for updates and changes
☎ Helpful Contacts
-
211 New Brunswick (local and emergency support)
Visit 211 New Brunswick -
Department of Social Development (New Brunswick)
Social Development – Government of New Brunswick
⚠️ Disclaimer
OBenefitFinder is an independent informational website and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with the Government of Canada, the Government of New Brunswick, or any provincial agency. Program rules, eligibility, and benefit details may change—always confirm information using official New Brunswick government sources.
🏡 Housing & Rental Assistance in New Brunswick
New Brunswick offers housing and rental assistance programs to help residents access affordable housing, manage rent costs, or receive support during housing instability.
Support is delivered through provincial housing programs, local housing authorities, nonprofit organizations, and community agencies. Programs may assist renters, low-income households, seniors, and individuals or families at risk of homelessness, depending on eligibility rules and local availability.
🏘️ Main Housing & Rental Assistance Programs in New Brunswick
1. Subsidized Housing & Affordable Housing (NB Housing / Local Providers)
New Brunswick offers subsidized and affordable housing options that can help eligible low-income households access stable housing at a reduced cost. These programs are delivered through provincial housing services and local housing providers, and availability can vary by community.
Who May Qualify- Low-income households living in New Brunswick
- Seniors, families with children, and individuals who meet program criteria
- Applicants who meet residency and income requirements
- Applications are typically handled through provincial housing services or local housing providers
- Waitlists are common for long-term subsidized housing
- Availability varies by region and unit size
👉 Official information: Housing Programs (Government of New Brunswick)
2. Rent Supplement / Rental Assistance (If Available)
Some New Brunswick programs and community partners may offer rent supplements or rental assistance to help eligible renters manage monthly housing costs. Program availability and rules can change—always confirm current details using official sources.
- Income-tested support (eligibility rules apply)
- Designed to help reduce rent burden for eligible renters
- May be delivered through provincial programs or local partners
👉 Start with the official housing hub: New Brunswick Housing (GNB)
3. Emergency Housing & Homelessness Support (211 / Local Services)
If you are facing homelessness, unsafe housing, or immediate housing loss, emergency supports may include shelters, transitional housing, and housing support services. The fastest way to find local options is often through community directories and local crisis resources.
- Emergency shelters and short-term accommodation
- Transitional and supportive housing
- Local housing outreach and crisis supports
👉 Find urgent housing help: 211 New Brunswick — Housing & Emergency Resources
📊 Income & Eligibility Notes
Housing assistance eligibility in New Brunswick is usually based on income, household size, residency, and local availability. Program rules and wait times vary by region and program.
- Income limits may differ depending on the program and location
- Some programs prioritize urgent housing needs or specific household types
- Waitlists may apply for subsidized or long-term housing options
*Income limits and benefit amounts are not listed here to avoid outdated information.
🧾 Documents You May Need
- Government-issued photo ID
- Proof of New Brunswick residency / address
- Proof of income (pay stubs, benefit statements, etc.)
- Household member information (names, dates of birth, etc.)
- Current lease / rent details (for some programs)
📝 How to Apply
1. Subsidized / Affordable Housing- Apply through New Brunswick’s official housing program channels or local housing providers
- Follow official guidance for eligibility and required documents
👉 Start here: Housing Programs (Government of New Brunswick)
2. Rent Supplement / Rental Assistance- Check the housing hub for current rental assistance options and application steps
- Use 211 to find shelters, transitional housing, and urgent resources near you
☎ Helpful Housing Contacts
-
211 New Brunswick (housing & emergency support)
Visit 211 New Brunswick -
New Brunswick Housing (official hub)
Housing Programs (GNB)
⚠️ Disclaimer
OBenefitFinder is an independent informational website and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with the Government of Canada, the Government of New Brunswick, or any housing authority. Program availability, eligibility rules, and benefit details may change—always confirm information using official Government of New Brunswick sources and local housing providers.
👨👩👧 Child & Family Benefits in New Brunswick
New Brunswick offers child and family benefits to help eligible families manage everyday living costs and child-related expenses.
Support may include federal programs such as the Canada Child Benefit (CCB), along with provincial supports like the New Brunswick Child Tax Benefit (NBCTB) and related income-tested family assistance programs. Eligibility and payment amounts depend on income, family size, and residency— always confirm details using official New Brunswick and Canada government sources.
📋 Child & Family Benefit Programs in New Brunswick
New Brunswick families may qualify for child and family financial benefits that help reduce the cost of raising children. These programs are delivered through a combination of federal and New Brunswick provincial benefits and are primarily based on household income and family size.
Child and family benefits are designed to support parents and caregivers with everyday expenses while improving financial stability for households with children.
👨👩👧 Who May Qualify
- You live in New Brunswick
- You are the parent or primary caregiver of a child under age 18
- You are responsible for the child’s daily care and upbringing
- You and your spouse or partner file income taxes (if applicable)
- You meet residency and income requirements
Eligibility and payment amounts depend on household income, family size, and residency status.
📊 How Benefits Are Calculated
Child and family benefits in New Brunswick are calculated using family net income reported on your income tax return. Benefits are reassessed each year after taxes are filed.
- Payments may be issued monthly or quarterly, depending on the program
- Benefit amounts may change if income or family size changes
- Most benefits require up-to-date tax filing to continue
*Benefit rates and eligibility rules can change annually. We do not publish payment amounts to avoid outdated information.
💵 Main Child & Family Benefits in New Brunswick
- Canada Child Benefit (CCB) – federal monthly payment for eligible families administered by the Canada Revenue Agency
- New Brunswick Child Tax Benefit (NBCTB) – provincial benefit for eligible low- and moderate-income families (income-tested)
- Additional supplements for children with disabilities (if eligible)
🧾 How to Apply
1. Canada Child Benefit (Federal)- Apply online using your CRA account: Canada Child Benefit (CRA)
- New parents can apply when registering a birth
- NBCTB eligibility is generally assessed using your tax return information. To learn current eligibility rules and details, review official information: New Brunswick Child Tax Benefit (GNB)
- Tax filing is required to receive and continue benefits
- Both parents or partners must file if applicable
📞 Help & Support
- Dial 2-1-1 for local family, childcare, and financial support services in New Brunswick
- New Brunswick government services & benefits: Government of New Brunswick (GNB)
⚠️ Disclaimer
OBenefitFinder is an independent informational website and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or associated with the Government of Canada, the Government of New Brunswick, or the Canada Revenue Agency. Benefit eligibility, payment amounts, and application rules may change—always confirm details using official government sources.
Frequently Asked Questions (New Brunswick)
Families in New Brunswick may qualify for benefits such as the Canada Child Benefit (CCB) and the New Brunswick Child Tax Benefit (NBCTB). Additional supports may be available depending on income, family size, and individual circumstances.
Eligibility usually depends on living in New Brunswick, being the parent or primary caregiver of a child under age 18, and meeting income and residency requirements. Annual tax filing is typically required.
Yes. Child and family benefits are generally calculated using information from your income tax return. If you have a spouse or partner, both may need to file taxes.
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is a federal monthly payment that helps eligible families with the cost of raising children. The amount is based on family income and number of children and is administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
The New Brunswick Child Tax Benefit (NBCTB) is a provincial benefit for eligible low- and moderate-income families with children. It is typically income-tested and assessed using information from your tax return.
Most child and family benefits are triggered through the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) after you apply for the Canada Child Benefit and file taxes. New Brunswick provincial benefits are commonly assessed using your tax information. Always follow the official government instructions for your situation.
The Canada Child Benefit is paid monthly. New Brunswick provincial benefit payment schedules can vary. Payment timing may also depend on tax filing and verification.
Requirements may include identification, proof of residency, child information, and immigration or residency documents if applicable. Some programs may request tax or income details.
Changes such as income, address, custody, marital status, or banking details should be reported promptly. Updates are usually handled through your CRA account for federal benefits and through the appropriate New Brunswick government services for provincial supports.
No. OBenefitFinder does not determine eligibility, process applications, or issue payments. We provide informational guidance only. Always apply through official government websites.
🌍 Explore Benefit Programs in Other Provinces
Looking for benefits outside New Brunswick? Explore official programs and assistance available in other Canadian provinces.
