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.
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:
- Resume and cover letter development
- Links to training programs
- Job search support
- Interview preparation
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.
How to Apply
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.
Your Rights & Responsibilities
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.
Reporting Changes
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
Does this program follow Quebec’s rules?
Yes, it mirrors the provincial Social Assistance Program while being delivered locally in a culturally informed way.
Can I receive assistance while in training?
Yes. Training is encouraged and may be included in your case management plan.
Do I need to reapply every month?
No. You must, however, report any changes to your situation.
What if I start working?
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.
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:
Every file is evaluated individually, and our team is here to intake applications with clarity and respect.