by Jean Knockwood, Social Project Manager, KMKNO

Chief Leroy Denny, the Lead Chief of Social for the Assembly of Nova Scotia Mi’kmaw Chiefs (Assembly), is pleased with the work that the Mi’kmaw Social Development Administrators (SDAs) from all 13 Mi’kmaw communities in Nova Scotia have completed on the new Mi’kmaw Enhanced Social Program. Their achievements have created steps towards supporting the transition of Mi’kmaw self-governance over a newly developed Mi’kmaw Social Program within the province.

Chief Leroy Denny stated, “our Social Development Administrators are collaborating on creating a new common policy for our Mi’kmaq-based social program. This new policy will provide additional supports to children, families and Elders once implemented. We are confident that these changes will help our people and reduce poverty.”

The new Mi’kmaw Common Social Policy will include basic social assistance, social housing, some health costs, and access to training and employment opportunities. The SDAs also created another important component which is the development of a client information system – which will enable the SDAs to do case management with clients.

“The policy and new case management system will support our independent approach to working with our people in a more one-on-one way, instead of simply handing out cheques every two weeks,” said Chief Denny. “This is part of our transition to a program delivery model equal to other jurisdictions but also very focused on ...