B.C.'s most vulnerable families are getting a helping hand thanks to income and disability assistance changes that take effect today. The changes, announced in June as part of the Families First Agenda, are designed to help vulnerable individuals and families attain better financial outcomes, assist people with disabilities to lead more independent lives, and help people capable of work avoid the cycle of income-assistance dependence.

Do you know someone with a developmental disability? October is Community Living Month, and this is the perfect opportunity to recognize and celebrate British Columbians living with developmental disabilities by attending one of the many events happening around the province.

A number of engagement and consultation activities are underway as government continues to deliver on the 12-point plan to improve services to people with developmental disabilities, Social Development Minister Stephanie Cadieux announced today.

The B.C. government has fast-tracked increases to the school startup supplement so income and disability assistance clients - and now hardship assistance clients - with children in school can receive the extra money in time for the start of the school year.

After a re-examination of current resources and demand, Social Development Minister Stephanie Cadieux announced that government is restoring a number of medically necessary medical equipment and supplies for clients on income and disability assistance.

Since the Client Support Team began accepting requests in October 2011, 266 individuals with developmental disabilities and their families have taken advantage of the team's services.