Social Development

SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITY

Access financial assistance, personalized guidance, and employment support designed to help community members meet essential needs, navigate challenges, and work toward greater independence.

Ionkwateriwaièn:ni

Mission Statement

Our mission is to promote the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual wellness of our people by offering respectful, confidential, and culturally grounded support that empowers individuals and strengthens families.

Social Assistance, Case Management and Pre-Employability Supports Program (PEP)

The Mohawk Council of Kanehsatà:ke Social Development Program provides last resort financial assistance and services to Kanehsatà:ke community members who need assistance meeting their essential needs or who are preparing to enter or re-enter the workforce. The Department is responsible for the delivery of the Regular Social Development Program, and the Case Management and Pre-Employability Supports Program, mirroring the provincial program while ensuring services are adapted to Kanehsatà:ke’s realities, values, and community needs. We work in close collaboration with regional and local partners to ensure coordinated and comprehensive services, providing support to individuals and families who require assistance or are working toward employment, financial stability, and long-term independence.

Regular Social Assistance Program

Overview

The department administers financial assistance for eligible community members who have little or no income. This includes support for basic needs and essential living expenses. The program mirrors the provincial Social Assistance framework while ensuring delivery is responsive to the local context and supports community well-being. The program is delivered in accordance with the standards of the Quebec Social Assistance Program, while ensuring services remain responsive to the unique needs and realities of Kanehsatà:ke.

Support may be available for:

  • Basic needs
  • Special needs:

Every file is evaluated individually, and our team is here to intake applications with clarity and respect.

Case Management & Pre-Employability Supports Program

Our personalized approach helps clients build skills, set goals, and access training or employment opportunities. Through one-on-one case management, we help clients bridge the gaps to higher education and employment. This program provides personalized guidance to community members who are preparing to enter or re-enter the workforce.

Services reflect the provincial model and include:

  • One-on-one case management
  • Goal setting and tailored action plans
  • Identification of barriers and strategies to overcome them
  • Referrals to our partners Kanehsatà:ke Employment, Training Service Center,
  • Kanehsatà:ke Health Center, FNRAEC, Onen’tó:kon Healing Lodge, and Kanehsatà:ke Education Center for:

The program encourages long-term financial independence and supports empowerment through skill building, training, and work readiness.

Eligibility Overview

Community members may qualify for assistance if they:

  • Have little or no income
  • Are available for work or participating in training
  • Are temporarily or permanently unable to work (with documentation)
  • Require support while planning next steps toward employment or training

While eligibility criteria are assessed on a case-by-case basis, clients must be eligible to regular social assistance in order to be eligible to the PEP.

1. Visit the Social Development Office

Our team can assist in starting or completing your application.

2. Gather required documents

Bringing the following helps avoid delays:

  • Identification
  • Proof of address
  • Bank statements
  • Income information
  • Housing details
  • Medical documents (if relevant)

3. Meet with a team member

We review your file together, answer questions, and outline next steps.

4. Receive a decision

You will be contacted once your application is assessed.

5. Participate in follow-up (if applicable)

Clients involved in case management receive ongoing support and check-ins.

You Have the Right To:

  • Be treated with respect and confidentiality
  • Receive clear information about your file
  • Request clarification or review of decisions

You Are Responsible For:

  • Providing accurate information
  • Reporting changes in income, household status, or employment
  • Attending scheduled appointments
  • Participating in pre-employment activities if part of your plan

These shared responsibilities help keep the program fair and effective for everyone.

Any changes to your situation of employment, income, address, family composition, and training participation, must be reported promptly to ensure your file stays accurate and benefits continue without interruption.

FAQ

Yes, it mirrors the provincial Social Assistance Program while being delivered locally in a culturally informed way.

Yes. Training is encouraged and may be included in your case management plan.

No. You must, however, report any changes to your situation.

You must notify the department immediately. Some individuals may still qualify for support depending on income.

Community Supports & Referrals

Our team collaborates closely with several partners to ensure seamless services and access to opportunities:

  • First Nations of Quebec and Labrador Social Services Commission (FNQLSSC)
  • Services Québec, Laurentides & Laval Regions

 – Conseillère opérationnel et continuum des services – Direction des services gouvernementaux intégrés des Laurentides (DSGI)

 – Ministère de l’Emploi et de la Solidarité sociale

  •  Kanehsatà:ke Employment & Training Service Center
  • Tsi Shaakotiio’tenhseraienawa:se Committee
  • Social Assistance Portfolio Chiefs
  • Our PEP partners

Together, these partnerships strengthen the support network available to Kanehsata’kehró:non and help ensure programs are aligned, responsive, and reflective of community needs. The department helps ensure individuals receive coordinated, holistic support. Through our partnerships, clients may be connected to:

  • Kanehsatà:ke Employment & Training Service Center
  • Services Québec offices in Laval and Laurentides
  • Local health and social supports
  • Mental health and wellness services
  • Youth, Family, and Elder programs

Contact Us

Our team is here to welcome you, answer questions, and provide guidance through the application or case management process.

Social Development Program

B-14 Joseph Swan

8h – 12h / 13h – 16h
450-479-8373

OUR TEAM

​Social Development Program Manager

Mary Simon

(450) 479-8373 EXT. 304
bernard.marie-claude@kanesatake.ca

Social Assistance Coordinator

Melissa Mallette-Matte

(450) 479-8373 EXT. 305  

Pre – employment Coordinator

Lehente Gabriele

(450) 479-8373 EXT. 307

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