Details on transfer payment programs of $5 million or more

Name of transfer payment program

Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy (Voted)

Start date

April 1, 2010

End date

March 31, 2018

Type of transfer payment

Contribution

Type of appropriation

Vote 5

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2009–10 (with the latest amendment in February 2016)

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Learning, Skills Development and Employment

Program: Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy

Description

The Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy (ASETS) aims to increase Indigenous participation in the Canadian labour market, ensuring that First Nations, Inuit and Métis people are engaged in sustainable, meaningful employment. The Strategy provides funding to over 80 Indigenous service delivery organizations to deliver employment and training services and supports through over 600 points of service across Canada. The Strategy is linked to the Employment Insurance Act, which enables Indigenous groups to deliver programs similar to those established by Part II of the Act. The Strategy supports labour market obligations specified in Treaty and Self-Government Agreements that are in place with some Indigenous groups. The Strategy is also linked to the First Nations and Inuit Child Care Initiative, as the funding flows through ASETS, to help increase the supply of quality child care services in First Nations and Inuit communities and provide support to First Nations and Inuit parents or caregivers so that they may work and/or participate in job training and skills development programs.

ASETS is currently undergoing renewal, and the transition towards implementation of the renewed programming will begin April 1, 2018.

ASETS is not a repayable contribution.

Expected results

An increasing number of Indigenous people are employed and integrated into the Canadian labour market.

Performance measure:

• Number of clients who obtained employment following service intervention(s)
  • 2018–19 Target: 14,000–16,500

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

2014–15

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

2019–20

General targeted recipient groups

Indigenous organizations (may include incorporated for-profit and not-for-profit Indigenous-controlled organizations, Indigenous-controlled unincorporated organizations, Indian Act bands, tribal councils and Indigenous governments under modern treaties)

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

To advance reconciliation and respect the commitment towards a renewed nation-to-nation relationship with Indigenous people, ESDC has conducted extensive engagement with Indigenous leadership, ASETS service delivery organizations, academic institutions and provincial and territorial governments on a renewed approach to design and deliver ASETS. The department will continue to work with Indigenous partners on the transition towards implementation of the renewed programming in 2018–19.

ESDC also works with Indigenous agreement holders throughout the life of their contribution agreement. For example, the department interacts with agreement holders in the development and negotiation of their contribution agreements. There is also ongoing communication with agreement holders at the national and regional level, including regular monitoring activities.

Name of transfer payment program

Youth Employment Strategy (Voted)

Start date

April 1, 2003

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Contribution

Type of appropriation

Vote 5

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2016–17

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Learning, Skills Development and Employment

Program: Youth Employment Strategy

Description

The Youth Employment Strategy (YES) helps youth aged 15 to 30 gain the skills, career information and work experience they need to find and maintain employment. YES assists youth in making a successful transition into today’s changing labour market.

YES is delivered collaboratively by 11 federal departments and agencies with Employment and Social Development as the lead. YES includes three streams of programming: Skills Link, Career Focus and Summer Work Experience. The Summer Work Experience Stream includes the Canada Summer Jobs program which is delivered by Employment and Social Development Canada.

This program is delivered nationally, regionally and locally via contribution agreements. The YES contribution is non-repayable.

Expected results

Youth have access to programs that allow them to acquire the skills, learning experiences and opportunities they need to find and maintain employment or return to school.

Performance measure:

1. Number of clients served who have started one or more interventions within the current fiscal year.
• 2018–19 Target: Career Focus = 1,451 // Skills Link = 8,993 // Canada Summer Jobs = up to 69,000
2. Number of clients employed or self-employed
• 2018–19 Target: Career Focus = 1,016 // Skills Link = 4,496 // Canada Summer Job = Not applicable
3. Number of clients returned to school
• 2018–19 Target: Career Focus = 145 // Skills Link = 899 // Canada Summer Job = Not applicable

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

2014–15

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

The Summative Evaluation of YES is in progress and is scheduled to be completed in 2019–2020.

General targeted recipient groups

Eligible recipients include individuals, other levels of government, provincial and territorial institutions, agencies, Crown corporations; and not-for-profit, for-profit and Indigenous organizations.

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

The Government of Canada engaged recipients via contribution agreements. Employment and Social Development Canada uses Calls for Proposals as the main mechanism to engage with partners.

Name of transfer payment program

Canada Service Corps (Formerly Youth Service Initiative) Voted

Start date

June 22, 2017

End date

March 31, 2020

Type of transfer payment

Contribution

Type of appropriation

Vote 5

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2017–18

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Learning, Skills Development and Employment

Program: Canada Service Corps

Description

The Canada Service Corps (CSC) is a nationally delivered grants and contributions program with the objective of promoting civic engagement among Canadian youth aged 15-30 by creating and facilitating access to committed service opportunities that are meaningful to youth, while assisting them to gain valuable skills that will benefit them in life and work. These service opportunities will provide youth with the chance to make a difference in their communities. CSC supports activities under five different components:

• Youth Service Portal: Funding to promote the Canada Service Corps program and the benefits of civic participation and facilitate access to service opportunities
• Micro-Contributions: Funding to support the implementation pf small scale youth led projects and innovative community service ideas
• Youth Service Opportunities: Funding to national and local and regional organizations to undertake service projects that allow youth to serve and benefit communities across Canada
• Innovative Engagement and Outreach: Funding to support innovative engagement and outreach activities, including the facilitation of a youth volunteer matching service to support access to service opportunities and promote civic engagement
• Research and Evaluation: Funding to support knowledge development, research and prototyping projects to ensure that youth, particularly those who are not already engaged are aware of service benefits and are more likely to serve

Expected results

The three-year period will be a pilot phase to explore, test and engage youth with innovative program interventions; expand the visibility and accessibility of youth service opportunities; and lay the foundations to develop a national signature program to encourage youth service.

By March 31, 2020, up to 12,000 youth are expected to have engaged in service opportunities.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

Not applicable; program implemented in 2017–18

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Not applicable; program implemented in 2017–18

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

To be determined. Evaluation strategy to be developed for signature national program in fiscal 2019–20.

General targeted recipient groups

Eligible recipients include not-for-profit organizations;

For profit organizations; Research organizations and institutes; Indigenous organizations (including band councils, tribal councils and self-government entities); and, Municipal, *Provincial and Territorial governments and their entities, including institutions, agencies and Crown Corporations, Public health and educational institutions (that is, universities, colleges, CÉGEPs, school boards/school districts).

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

ESDC engages with stakeholders and youth through contribution agreements. ESDC uses Calls for Proposals as the main mechanism to deliver programming.

Name of transfer payment program

Workforce Development Agreements

Start date

April 1, 2017

End date

In perpetuity unless terminated in accordance with the Agreement

Type of transfer payment

Other transfer payments

Type of appropriation

Vote 5

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2017–18

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Learning, Skills Development and Employment

Program: Workforce Development Agreements

Description

The Workforce Development Agreements (WDAs) will consolidate the Canada Job Fund Agreements, the Labour Market Agreements for Persons with Disabilities and the former Targeted Initiative for Older Workers, making transfers to the provinces and territories simpler and more flexible. This supports provinces and territories in designing and delivering labour market programs and services that assist Canadians in gaining employability skills and work experience, improving job skills, increasing labour market participation, finding and keeping employment as well as assisting and supporting employers.

Expected results

This initiative will support the efforts of provinces and territories and employers to equip workers with training and skills, reducing barriers to access, avoiding duplication, and promoting better outcomes for workers who need help. It is expected that these labour market transfers will result in increased access for Canadians to training and employment programs by providing provinces and territories with expanded program eligibility and increased funding. Specifically, it would increase the number of clients served and the flexibility to serve a broader range of client needs. A robust new performance measurement strategy will allow for the measurement of outcomes, including:

• Participation of individuals and employers in programs and services
• Progression of individuals along the continuum to labour market participation
• Improved workforce capacity of employers/industries
• Employers/industries better able to manage labour market challenges
• Employment, increased earnings and positive net impacts for individuals; and
• Sustainable employment of individuals

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

N/A. No evaluation has been completed as the WDAs are under negotiation and will come into effect once signed.

Decision following the results of last evaluation

N/A. No evaluation has been completed as the WDAs are under negotiation and will come into effect once signed.

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

2021–22

General targeted recipient groups

Unemployed; Disabled.

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

The Government of Canada engages provinces and territories through the bilateral committee set out in each Agreement. Provinces and territories are responsible for the design and delivery of skills training and programming and setting priorities within the parameters of the Agreements. As part of that process they are responsible for engaging with employers and other stakeholders to determine priorities.

Name of transfer payment program

Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities (Voted)

Start date

April 1, 1997

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Contribution

Type of appropriation

Vote 5

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2014–15

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Learning, Skills Development and Employment

Program: Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities

Description

The Opportunities Fund for Persons with Disabilities (OF-PwD) assists persons with disabilities to prepare for, obtain and maintain employment. It supports persons with disabilities in overcoming barriers to participation in the Canadian labour market, and it supports employers to hire persons with disabilities. This program supports a wide range of programs and services, including job search supports, skills development, wage subsidies and employer awareness initiatives to encourage employers to hire persons with disabilities. OF-PwD is delivered across the country by Service Canada Centres, in partnership with organizations in the community.

These transfer payments are not repayable contributions.

Expected results

Persons with disabilities have enhanced their employability, obtained employment, become self-employed or returned to school.

Performance measure:

• Number of clients with enhanced employability
  • 2018–19 Target: 4,023
• Number of clients employed or self-employed
  • 2018–19 Target: 1,788

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

2014–15

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

The Evaluation of the OF-PwD is currently in progress and is scheduled to be completed in 2018–19 (Phase 1) and 2019–20 (Phase 2).

General targeted recipient groups

Eligible recipients include individuals acting as project sponsors or employers in relation to an eligible activity; other levels of government; provincial and territorial institutions, agencies and Crown corporations; and not-for-profit, for-profit and Indigenous organizations.

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

The Government of Canada engaged recipients via both national and regional contribution agreements. The Government of Canada regularly consults with employers and service providers to design and deliver programming for persons with disabilities to support enhanced employment outcomes.

Name of transfer payment program

Federal Income Support for Parents of Murdered or Missing Children (Voted)

Start date

January 1, 2013

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Grant

Type of appropriation

Vote 5

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2012–13

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Learning, Skills Development and Employment

Program: Federal Income Support for Parents of Murdered or Missing Children

Description

The Federal Income Support for Parents of Murdered or Missing Children (PMMC) is an income support grant available to eligible parents who have suffered a loss of income as a result of taking time away from work to cope with the death or disappearance of their child (or children) under the age of 18 as a result of a probable Criminal Code offence. This program is not a repayable contribution.

Expected results

The financial burden on parents of children who are deceased or missing due to a probable Criminal Code offence and who take time away from work to cope with the tragic situation is eased.

Performance measures:

• Proportion of successful applicants
  • 2018–19 Target: Not applicable^{Footnote 1}
• Average number of weeks paid per recipient
  • 2018–19 Target: Not applicable^{Footnote 1}

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

2017–18

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Not applicable

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

2022–23

General targeted recipient groups

Individuals (Parents or Legal Guardian)

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

Outreach activities to law enforcement agencies and victim stakeholder groups are ongoing to raise awareness of this income support among eligible families.

Name of transfer payment program

Union Training and Innovation Program

Start date

April 1, 2017

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Contribution

Type of appropriation

Vote 5

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

Ongoing

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Learning, Skills Development and Employment

Program: Union Training and Innovation Program

Description

The Union Training and Innovation Program (UTIP) aims to strengthen training in the trades to better support a skilled, inclusive, and productive trades workforce.

UTIP funding is available through two streams. Stream 1 provides unions representing workers in Red Seal trades with up to 50% of the cost of purchasing up-to-date training equipment and materials. Stream 2 provides support for innovative approaches to address challenges that limit apprenticeship outcomes. Challenges include, barriers to participation and success in the trades for key groups (for example, women and Indigenous people), and lack of employer engagement. This stream is open to a range of stakeholders, but unions representing workers in Red Seal trades must be involved, either as the lead or partner on projects.

Both streams must aim to increase participation and success of key groups in the trades, particularly women and Indigenous people.

Expected results

Participants have improved skills to succeed in the trades.

Performance measure:

• Number of participants in funded projects in stream 1 (equipment)
  • 2018–19 Target: Between 4,500 and 10,000
• Number of participants in funded projects in stream 2 (innovation)
  • 2018–19 Target: Between 250 and 750
• Percentage of participants in funded projects reporting an increase in skills after program intervention
  • 2018–19 Target: 85%

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

Not applicable

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Not applicable

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

2020–21

General targeted recipient groups

Women, Indigenous people, newcomers, and persons with disabilities

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

Call for Proposals or by direct solicitation

Name of transfer payment program

Apprenticeship Grants (Voted)

Start date

January 1, 2007 (Apprenticeship Incentive Grant) / January 1, 2009 (Apprenticeship Completion Grant)

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Grant

Type of appropriation

Vote 5

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2012–13

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Learning, Skills Development and Employment

Program: Apprenticeship Grants

Description

Apprenticeship grants are incentives to attract Canadians to the trades and to assist apprentices in the Red Seal trades to progress and complete their training. This program targets eligible Canadian citizens, permanent residents and protected persons who are out of high school and are registered apprentices in one of the 56 designated Red Seal trades. It is comprised of two grants: the Apprenticeship Incentive Grant, a taxable cash grant of $1,000 per year for registered apprentices (up to a maximum of $2,000 per apprentice) who have successfully completed the technical and on-the-job training requirements for the first or second year/level of an apprenticeship program; and the Apprenticeship Completion Grant, an additional $2,000 taxable cash grant to registered apprentices upon completion of apprenticeship training and receipt of journeyperson certification. Eligibility for this program is tied to the Red Seal trades, as the Red Seal represents a standard of excellence which promotes the mobility of skilled tradespeople based on national standards. Delivery of apprenticeship grants to eligible registered apprentices involves responding to calls for information, collecting and processing applications, issuing payments and monitoring accuracy of payments.

Apprenticeship grants are not repayable contributions.

Expected results

Participant progression in and completion of an apprenticeship program in a designated Red Seal trade is increased.

Performance measures:

• Number of Apprenticeship Incentive Grants issue
  • 2018–19 Target: 47,800
• Number of Apprenticeship Completion Grants issued
  • 2018–19 Target: 23,000

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

2014–15

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

The Summative Evaluation of the Apprenticeship Grants (AG) Program is scheduled to be completed in 2018–19.

General targeted recipient groups

Eligible recipients are registered apprentices who meet the eligibility criteria of AG.

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

In 2018–19, the Department will continue to work with provincial/territorial apprenticeship authorities to identify opportunities and implement measures to increase program efficiency while offering individuals applying for an Apprenticeship Grant, a more streamlined application process.

Name of transfer payment program

Literacy and Essential Skills (Voted)

Start date

April 1, 2006

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Grant and Contribution

Type of appropriation

Vote 5

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2012–13

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Learning, Skills Development and Employment

Program: Literacy and Essential Skills

Description

The Office of Literacy and Essential Skills (OLES) aims to help adult Canadians improve their literacy and essential skills to better prepare for, get and keep a job, and adapt and succeed at work. As such, OLES is working closely with provincial and territorial governments to support the integration of essential skills into employment and training programs, which they in large part deliver, and for which they are further supported by federal labour market transfers such as the Canada Job Fund and Labour Market Development Agreements.

Particular emphasis is placed on supporting individuals with low skills and facing multiple barriers to employment such as Indigenous people, youth, and official language minority communities (OLMCs). Accordingly, OLES is working horizontally with other ESDC programs such as the Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy, the Youth Employment Strategy and the Enabling Fund for OLMCs. OLES is also partnering with other government departments, such as Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada, to enhance the availability of essential skills supports for those most in need (for example, newcomers).

The literacy and essential skills grants and contributions appropriation is from both the Consolidated Revenue Fund – Adult Learning, Literacy and Essential Skills (ALLESP) and Employment Insurance Part II – National Essential Skills Initiative (NESI). Funding is used to make strategic investments in transformative projects to replicate and scale up proven approaches to skills upgrading across Canada and to develop innovative approaches to improve the quality of employment and training supports that are more responsive to employer and worker needs.

This program uses funding from the following transfer payment: Adult Learning, Literacy and Essential Skills Program. The program also links with the Roadmap for Canada's Official Languages 2013–18.

Expected results

Adult Canadians have the literacy and essential skills they need to do their job, adapt and succeed in the labour market and contribute to their communities and families.

Performance measures:

• Number of organizations supporting essential skills training and development
  • 2018–19 Target: 500-700
• Number of Canadians having accessed essential skills training or supports
  • 2018–19 Target: 8,000-12,000

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

2017–18

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

The Evaluation of Literacy and Essential Skills is scheduled to be completed in 2022–23.

General targeted recipient groups

Eligible recipients for program funding include: Not-for-profit organizations; For-profit organizations^{Footnote 2}; Municipal governments; Aboriginal organizations (including band councils, tribal councils and self-government entities); and Provincial and territorial governments, institutions, agencies and Crown Corporations.

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

Over 235,000 literacy and essential skills tools and resources were ordered in print and accessed online, including through partners such as Service Canada, Red Seal and the Canada Business Network. The program hosts webinars to report on project progress and results and to share broadly "what works" to support people to develop the skills needed for the job market. The program also hosts an annual Essential Skills Forum with partners, stakeholders and project recipients to discuss current program objectives, common challenges, and to share good practices.

Name of transfer payment program

Foreign Credential Recognition Program (Voted)

Start date

May 26, 2010

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Contribution

Type of appropriation

Vote 5

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2010–11

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Learning, Skills Development and Employment

Program: Foreign Credential Recognition Program

Description

The Foreign Credential Recognition Program (FCRP) targets internationally trained professionals and tradespersons, working with provincial and territorial governments and various organizations (such as regulatory bodies, national associations and credential assessment agencies) to facilitate credential recognition processes and ensure they are fair, consistent, transparent and timely. This program provides strategic financial support to its stakeholders through contribution agreements for key high-demand professions and skilled trades as well as other occupations to ensure that professionals and tradespersons who have obtained their credentials in another country can fully use their skills in Canada’s labour market. In order to streamline foreign credential recognition processes, this program facilitates national coordination among provinces and territories and other partners. The FCRP also works to implement domestic labour mobility initiatives, and complements the Canada Free Trade Agreement, by facilitating national coordination among partners and reducing barriers faced by workers in regulated occupations as they pursue employment opportunities across the country.^{Footnote 3}

The FCRP is not a repayable contribution.

Expected results

Performance measure:

Foreign-trained individuals are better able to use their skills and experience gained abroad in the Canadian labour market.

• Portion of skilled immigrants in regulated occupations targeted by systemic foreign credential recognition interventions
  • 2018–19 Target: 78%

Loans program: Newcomer clients have their credentials recognized and have better employment outcomes.

• Percentage of newcomer clients who complete their credential assessment post intervention
  • 2021 Target^{Footnote 4}: 25%
• Percentage of newcomer clients who find employment in their intended or related occupation post intervention
  • 2021 Target^{Footnote 4}: 35%

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

The Joint Summative Evaluation of the Foreign Credential Recognition Program and Inter-provincial Labour Mobility Initiative was completed in 2015–16. The evaluation findings can be found on the ESDC website:

• ESDC evaluation reports

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

The Summative Evaluation of FCRP is scheduled to be completed in 2019–20.

General targeted recipient groups

Eligible recipients include, but are not limited to, not-for-profit organizations, regulatory bodies, national organizations, provincial governments, sector and cross-sectoral councils, professional associations, industry associations, unions, school boards, municipal governments, public health institutions, universities, colleges, Collèges d'enseignement général et professionnel and consortia composed of all or some of the aforementioned types of recipient organizations.

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

Employment and Social Development Canada continued to engage with key stakeholders through periodic meetings and conferences, and participated in regular federal/provincial/territorial activities through the Forum of Labour Market Ministers intergovernmental working groups (for example, the Foreign Qualifications Recognition Working Group and the Labour Mobility Coordinating Group).

Name of transfer payment program

Sectoral Initiatives Program (Voted)

Start date

April 1, 2013

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Contribution

Type of appropriation

Vote 5

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2013–14

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Learning, Skills Development and Employment

Program: Sectoral Initiatives Program

Description

The Sectoral Initiatives Program (SIP) is a grants-and-contributions program with the objective of addressing current and future skills shortages by supporting the development and distribution of sector-specific labour market intelligence, national occupational standards, and skills certification and accreditation systems. The mandate is to help industry identify, forecast, and address human resources and skills issues through partnership-based projects for key sectors of the Canadian economy, to help ease labour mobility and labour market adjustment.

SIP does not use repayable contributions.

Expected results

Number of labour market information (LMI) reports or forecasting systems, National Occupation Standards (NOS), Certification and Accreditation regimes, and curricula developed or updated, and number of pilot project reports produced and shared via SIP projects.

Performance measures:

• Number of Labour Market Information reports and forecasting systems (FS)
  • 2018–19 Target: 90 Reports / 25 FS
• Number of NOS
  • 2018–19 Target: 65
• Number of certification regimes
  • 2018–19 Target: 20
• Number of accreditation systems
  • 2018–19 Target: 5
• Number of curricula developed or updated
  • 2018–19 Target: TBD, 2018–19 Baseline Year
• Number of pilot project reports
  • 2018–19 Target: TBD, 2018–19 Baseline Year

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

Not applicable – Evaluation ongoing

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Not applicable – Evaluation ongoing

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

The current evaluation of the Sectoral Initiatives Program is scheduled to be completed by April 2018, and the next will be completed in 2023–24.

General targeted recipient groups

The targeted recipients are organizations that represent a partnership of key players within a sector such as employers, associations and educational institutions, and include:

• Employee or employer associations
• Not-for-profit organizations; and
• Indigenous organizations (including band councils, tribal councils and self-government entities)

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

In 2017–18, SIP launched a Call for Proposals (CFP) process. In addition, the Program invited stakeholders in key economic sectors to submit target proposals for the development or updating of foundational labour market forecasting systems. Recipients were also consulted to gather information about outputs, users and results of current SIP projects.

Name of transfer payment program

Enabling Fund for Official Languages Minority Communities (Voted)

Start date

April 1, 2013

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Contribution

Type of appropriation

Vote 5

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2013–14

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Learning, Skills Development and Employment

Program: Enabling Fund for Official Language Minority Communities

Description

The Enabling Fund for Official Language Minority Communities (OLMCs) is an integral component of the Government of Canada’s strategy for official languages as expressed in the Roadmap for Canada's Official Languages 2013–18: Education, Immigration, Communities. This program aims to enhance the development and vitality of these communities by strengthening their capacity in the areas of human resources and community economic development, and by promoting partnerships at all levels, including with federal partners. This program provides funds to OLMCs in every province and territory by supporting professional local capacity to deliver services and supports to jobseekers, businesses and communities; generate strategic partnerships; spur investment; and consolidate efforts and resources of stakeholders to take action on priorities. The Enabling Fund is designed so that OLMCs can plan and implement community-specific development initiatives and better access a range of labour market services and programs. In addition to contributing to community development, the Enabling Fund allows the Department to deliver on its commitments and obligations related to the Official Languages Act.

Expected results

Official Language Minority Communities are better able to implement and sustain community economic and human resource development

Performance measures:

• Amount invested by non-Enabling Fund funded partners^{Footnote 5} for every dollar invested by the Enabling Fund in community economic development and human resource development
  • 2018–19 Target: $2^{Footnote 6}

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

2017–18

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

2021–22

General targeted recipient groups

Official language minority communities

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

Continued engagement through formal dialogue and a tripartite governance mechanism, the Economic Action Network (EAN). The EAN brings together federal and community representatives with economic and human resource development mandates to discuss cooperation mechanisms and initiatives aimed at improving the vitality and economic development of OLMCs.

The EAN connects local, regional and national economic stakeholders and policy makers and serves as a platform for establishing links between labour market strategies and programs with different scopes. The EAN is also an important mechanism for the federal government to remain apprised of the needs and circumstances of OLMCs from across the country.

Name of transfer payment program

Skills and Partnership Fund (Voted)

Start date

April 1, 2010

End date

March 31, 2021

Type of transfer payment

Contribution

Type of appropriation

Vote 5

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2009–10 (with the last amendment in March 2016)

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Learning, Skills Development and Employment

Program: Skills and Partnership Fund

Description

As a complement to the Aboriginal Skills and Employment Training Strategy, the Skills and Partnership Fund (SPF) is a demand-driven, partnership-based program that supports government priorities through strategic partnerships that fund projects that contribute to the skills development and training-to -employment of Indigenous people towards long-term, meaningful employment. SPF encourages innovations in Indigenous skills development, training-to-employment and service delivery, including new approaches to labour market training, and improving employment outcomes for Indigenous people This is done by supporting innovative projects to prepare and train Indigenous people for the demands of the Canadian labour market, requiring the development of partnerships and leveraging of private sector and federal-provincial-territorial funding to maximize SPF investments and testing new service delivery models to embed long-term program improvements.

Funding recipients deliver supports and services to First Nations, Inuit and Métis people to help them develop the necessary skills and job training to secure jobs. This program focuses on emerging or untapped economic development opportunities to meet the needs of high-demand sectors, as well as areas with skills shortages. Attention is given to ensuring that partnerships are in place prior to project initiation and that the focus of projects are responsive to demonstrated need with supports in the areas of training-to-employment, skills development and service delivery improvement.

The SPF is not a repayable contribution.

Expected results

An increasing number of Indigenous people are employed and integrated into the Canadian labour market.

Performance measures:

• Number of clients who obtained employment following service intervention(s)
  • 2018–19 Target: 1,600

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

2014–15

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

2019–20

General targeted recipient groups

Indigenous organizations (may include incorporated for-profit and not-for-profit Indigenous-controlled organizations, Indigenous-controlled unincorporated organizations, Indian Act bands, tribal councils and Indigenous governments under modern treaties).

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

National calls for proposals are conducted to solicit projects as well as targeted solicited projects.

ESDC works with Indigenous agreement holders throughout the life of their contribution agreement. The department interacts with agreement holders in the development and negotiation of their contribution agreements. There is also ongoing communication with agreement holders at the national and regional level, including regular monitoring activities.

In addition, ESDC also engages with industry/employer stakeholders to continue to foster partnerships and build solid relationships to promote community economic development in Indigenous communities across the country.

Name of transfer payment program

Student Work-Integrated Learning Program

Start date

April 1, 2017

End date

March 31, 2021

Type of transfer payment

Contribution

Type of appropriation

Vote 5

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2017–18

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Learning, Skills Development and Employment

Program: Student Work-Integrated Learning Program

Description

The Student Work-Integrated Learning Program (SWILP) supports multi-stakeholder partnerships bringing employers and post-secondary institutions together to collaborate on the creation of work-integrated learning placements for Canadian students enrolled in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and business programs in post-secondary institutions. The majority of funds will be directed towards providing wage subsides to employers who offer new work-integrated learning placements focusing on “work-ready” and entrepreneurial skills development opportunities for student participants. In order to promote full and equitable participation in the Program, increased wage subsidies will be offered to employers who create placements for students from under-represented groups who have traditionally lacked access to these valuable skills development opportunities. These students include: women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, Indigenous students, Persons with Disabilities, newcomers and first-year students. Funding will also be directed towards innovative projects that develop strategies to better align educational and skills development opportunities with the skills needs of employers in key and emerging sectors of the economy. Employment and Social Development Canada has engaged multiple employer consortia to lead the program’s delivery as they are well placed to implement proposals with sustained impact on skills development in their sectors.

Expected results

Performance measure:

Increased number of PSE students participating in WIL opportunities and developing work ready skills

• Number of new WIL opportunities, including commitment to create opportunities, in STEM and business sectors
  • 2018–19 Target: 2,500

Increased engagement of employers, including small/medium sized employers, in adopting and implementing WIL

• Number of new formalized PSE and industry partnership
  • 2018–19 Target: 10 m

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

Not applicable

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Not applicable

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

2020–21

General targeted recipient groups

Eligible recipients include employer consortia delivering program activities. Employer consortia will target employers of all sizes, and post-secondary students as ultimate recipients of program funds.

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

The Government of Canada engaged recipients via contribution agreements. The Government of Canada regularly consults with employer consortia delivering activities and has put in place performance measurement and reporting requirements which each recipient is required to adhere to in order to secure additional funding. My Voice marketing campaign geared towards Canadian youth population, directing them to SWILP content page and delivery partners; as well as public announcements with Ministers, Prime Minister and media.

Name of transfer payment program

Canada Student Loans Program – Interest Payments and Liabilities (Statutory)

Start date

August 1, 1995

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Contribution

Type of appropriation

Statutory: Canada Student Loans Act

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

Canada Student Financial Assistance Act (S.C. 1994, c. 28)

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Learning, Skills Development and Employment

Program: Canada Student Loans and Grants and Canada Apprentice Loans Program

Description

From August 1, 1995, to July 31, 2000, the Canada Student Loans and Grants and Canada Apprentice Loans Program(CSLG&CALP) operated a risk-shared loans regime with Canadian financial institutions. This transfer payment represents consolidated costs related to that regime, including interest subsidy, repayment assistance benefits, the amount of loans forgiven, risk premium put-backs and administrative costs net of recoveries on affected loans.

Expected results

1. Students who borrowed under the risk-shared regime continue to receive in-study student financial assistance and debt management assistance in repayment
2. Canada meets its obligations as set out under the Canada Student Financial Assistance Act in agreements with financial institutions

Performance measure: Percentage of in-study and in-repayment borrowers who are satisfied with the overall loan experience provided by the Canada Loans and Grants for Students and Apprentices Program.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

• The Summative Evaluation of the Budget 2008 CSLP Enhancements was completed in 2016–17
• The Summative Evaluation of the Canada Apprentice Loan was completed in 2017–18

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

CSLP: Effectiveness at Achieving Outcomes – Phase 1, expected in 2019–20

CSLP: Effectiveness at Achieving Outcomes – Phase 2, expected in 2021–22

General targeted recipient groups

Financial institutions that provided Canada Student Loans to low- and middle-income students pursuing post-secondary education

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

Not applicable

Name of transfer payment program

Canada Student Loans Program – Direct Financing Arrangement (Statutory)

Start date

August 1, 2000

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Contribution

Type of appropriation

Statutory: Canada Student Loans Act

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

Canada Student Financial Assistance Act S.C. 24, c. 28

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Learning, Skills Development and Employment

Program: Canada Student Loans and Grants and Canada Apprentice Loans Program

Description

The Canada Student Loans and Grants and Canada Apprentice Loans Program (CSLG&CALP) provides loans to Canadians who have a demonstrated financial need to help them participate in post-secondary education. The Program also offers debt management measures to those borrowers who are experiencing financial difficulty so that they can repay their student loans in periods of unemployment or low income. It is managed in partnership with the participating provinces and territories, educational institutions and agencies, financial aid administrators, financial institutions and a service provider. The clients and beneficiaries include full- and part-time students and borrowers in repayment.

This transfer payment also includes a non-repayable contribution to provinces and territories that have elected to deliver programs comparable to the CSLG&CALP in their jurisdictions.

Expected results

Post-secondary education students in the province of Quebec, the Northwest Territories and Nunavut continue to access financial assistance similar to the assistance provided to students in those jurisdictions that participate in the CSLG&CALP; and

Students in non-participating jurisdictions with financial difficulty are able to receive repayment benefits.

Performance measure: Percentage and number of full-time post- secondary students (aged 15 to 29) in participating provinces/territories who used a Canada Student Loan, and/or a Canada Student Grant and/or an in-study interest subsidy, to help finance their participation in post-secondary education.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

The Summative Evaluation of the Budget 2008 CSLP Enhancements was completed in 2016–17.

The Summative Evaluation of the Canada Apprentice Loan was completed in 2017–18.

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

CSLP: Effectiveness at Achieving Outcomes – Phase 1, expected in 2019–20

CSLP: Effectiveness at Achieving Outcomes – Phase 2, expected in 2022–23

General targeted recipient groups

Non-participating provinces and territories for the benefit of resident low- and middle-income students

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

Not applicable

Name of transfer payment program

Canada Student Grants Program (Statutory)

Start date

August 1, 2009

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Grant

Type of appropriation

Statutory: Canada Student Financial Assistance Act

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

Canada Student Financial Assistance Act, (S.C. 1994, c. 28)

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Learning, Skills Development and Employment

Program: Canada Student Loans and Grants and Canada Apprentice Loans Program

Description

The Canada Student Grants Program (CSGP) provides predictable, up-front grants to assist and encourage students from low- and middle-income families, student parents and students with disabilities to participate in post-secondary education. It is managed in partnership with participating provinces and territories.

While Canada Student Loans are repayable, Canada Student Grants (CSGs) provide non-repayable assistance.

Expected results

Eligible students receive a Canada Student Grant to help them finance their post-secondary education.

Performance measure: Percentage and number of full-time post-secondary students (aged 15 to 29) in participating provinces/territories who used a Canada Student Loan, and/or a Canada Student Grant and/or an in-study interest subsidy, to help finance their participation in post-secondary education.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

The Summative Evaluation of the Budget 2008 CSLP Enhancements was completed in 2016–17.

The Summative Evaluation of the Canada Apprentice Loan was completed in 2017–18.

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

CSLP: Effectiveness at Achieving Outcomes – Phase 1, expected in 2019–20

CSLP: Effectiveness at Achieving Outcomes – Phase 2, expected in 2021–22

General targeted recipient groups

Low- and middle-income students pursuing post-secondary education

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

Ongoing outreach to current and prospective PSE students through multiple channels.

Name of transfer payment program

Canada Education Savings Program (Statutory)

Start date

January 1, 1998 (Canada Education Savings Grant); January 1, 2005 (Canada Learning Bond)

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Grant

Type of appropriation

Statutory: Canada Education Savings Act

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

Canada Education Savings Act (S.C. 2004, c. 26) Canada Education Savings Regulations (SOR/2005-151)

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Learning, Skills Development and Employment

Program: Canada Education Savings Program

Description

The Government of Canada encourages Canadians to save for a child’s Post-Secondary Education (PSE). ESDC administers two education savings incentives linked to Registered Education Savings Plans (RESPs):

The Canada Educational Savings Grant (CESG) is available to all eligible children and provides 20% (Basic CESG) on the first $2,500 in personal contributions made (Basic CESG) to an RESP each year, and an additional amount of CESG (Additional CESG) for eligible children from middle- and low- income families of 10% or 20% on the first $500 of personal contributions made each year. The CESG is available until the calendar year in which the child turns 17, and the maximum lifetime amount, including Additional CESG, is $7,200.

The Canada Learning Bond (CLB) is available for children from low-income families born in 2004 or later and provides an initial payment of $500 into an RESP plus $100 for each year of eligibility, up to age 15, for a maximum of $2,000. No personal contributions are required to receive the CLB.

These education savings incentives are delivered through a unique service delivery arrangement with financial institutions, banks, mutual fund companies and scholarship foundations.

Note: Where “CESG” is not preceded by the specification “Basic” or “Additional”, it refers to both.

Expected results

Canadians have accumulated savings in RESPs to help finance a portion of their PSE.

• Total amount of RESP assets as of December 31, 2018

More children receive Basic Canada Education Savings Grant:

• Percentage of children under 18 years of age who have ever received the Canada Education Savings Grant as of December 31, 2018

More children from low- and middle-income families receive the Additional Canada Education Savings Grant and the Canada Learning Bond for children from low-income families.

• Number of new beneficiaries receiving the Additional Canada Education Savings Grant
• Number of new beneficiaries receiving the Canada Learning Bond

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

A Summative Evaluation of the Canada Education Savings Program (CESP) - Canada Education Savings Grant and Canada Learning Bond was completed in 2015–16. The evaluation findings can be found on the ESDC website:

• ESDC evaluation reports

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

The Evaluation of the Canada Education Savings Program is scheduled to be completed in 2019–20.

General targeted recipient groups

CESG beneficiaries are children aged 0–17. The CLB is directed to children born on or after January 1, 2004, from low-income families or in care of an agency receiving payments on their behalf under the Children's Special Allowances Act for children in care.

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

Information on the CESG and the CLB is available online at canada.gc.ca, the Program’s telephone, mail and email inquiry services and 1 800 O-Canada.

The Government of Canada seeks to increase awareness and take-up of the education savings incentives through a variety of means, including: communication products, direct mailings to low-income families of eligible children, and outreach activities undertaken in collaboration with internal and external partner and stakeholders (for example, CLB sign-up events, Education Savings Week (ESW), an annual event designed to promote federal and provincial education savings incentives among low- and middle-income families, etc.).

Name of transfer payment program

Pathways to Education Canada (Multi-year funding agreement)

Start date

April 1, 2018 (based on draft grant agreement – not yet signed)

End date

March 31, 2022 (based on draft grand agreement – not yet signed)

Type of transfer payment

Grant

Type of appropriation

Vote 5

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2018–19

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Learning, Skills Development and Employment

Program: Canada Student Loans and Grants and Canada Apprentice Loans Program

Description

Pathways to Education Canada, a charitable organization founded in Toronto in 2001, is a community-based youth learning intervention program. The program was created to reduce poverty and its effects by lowering the high school dropout rate and increasing access to post-secondary education (PSE) among disadvantaged youth. The Pathways to Education program provides non-financial supports such as tutoring, mentoring and counselling; and financial supports such as bursaries for PSE and funding for certain immediate costs related to attending high school (such as bus tickets).

Expected results

Over the course of grand period, Pathways to Education Canada is expected to:

1. Expand its supports to reach more students in more areas of the country
   • Continue to provide ongoing support to the approximate 5,400 existing participants across the Program’s active sites
   • Increase enrolments to 6,500 students annually (approximate 20% increase)
   • Open an additional site in Thunder Bay
   • Explore the feasibility of and implement alternative delivery approaches aimed at broadening the reach of Pathways’ supports
2. Improve rates of high school graduation and acceptance to post-secondary education among program participants
   • Increase high school graduation rates among participants to within 10% of local school boards graduation rates
   • Ensure 85% of participants are accepted into post-secondary studies
3. Expand employability programming for participants
   • Increase the number of program participants accepted to post-secondary education
   • Increase access to career development activities
   • Continue to engage employers and alumni as part of program activities
   • Increase access to front-line resources to support development of employability skills for Pathways students
   • Expand capacity to track labour market outcomes of program graduates
   • Implement pilot projects to assess the skills of students exiting the program
4. Continue to develop Indigenous youth programming and finalize an Indigenous Youth Strategy
   • Gather data and information from students, advisory circles and other Indigenous stakeholders on how to improve educational outcomes
   • Establish educational indicators for Indigenous youth
   • Develop Indigenous evaluation strategies to assess programming needs
5. Finalize the production of an Indigenous Youth Strategy

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

Not applicable

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Not applicable

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

The Evaluation of Pathways to Education Canada is scheduled to be completed in 2018–19.

General targeted recipient groups

The only eligible recipient of funding is Pathways to Education Canada, a non-profit organization.

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

As stipulated in the draft funding agreement between Pathways to Education Canada and the Government of Canada, Pathways will ensure that funded activities are effectively captured. The organisation will use indicators to evaluate the outputs of its activities, to determine to the extent to which results support expected objectives and outcomes, and to capture lessons learned. This information will be reflected in financial statements, annual reports and in the final report.

Name of transfer payment program

Wage Earner Protection Program (WEPP)

Start date

July 2008

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Grant

Type of appropriation

Statutory: Wage Earner Protection Program Act

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2008–09

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Working Conditions and Workplace Relations

Program; Labour Standards; Workplace Equity

Description

This Program is designed to reduce the economic insecurity of Canadian workers who are owed unpaid wages and vacation, termination and severance pay when their employer files for bankruptcy or becomes subject to receivership. Workers can receive an amount up to four weeks of maximum insurable earnings under the Employment Insurance Act. When eligible workers receive payments under the Wage Earner Protection Program Act, they sign over their rights as creditors of the employer to the federal government, but only up to the amount of the payment received from the Program. Applicants who disagree with Service Canada’s eligibility decision can request a review within 30 days of the initial decision for appeal within 60 days of the review decision. The appeals are handled by an independent adjudicator appointed by the Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service. The federal government seeks recovery of the amounts as the creditor of the employer in the bankruptcy or receivership process. This Program covers workers in all labour jurisdictions. Delivery of Wage Earner Protection Program (WEPP) benefits to eligible workers involves responding to calls for information, collecting and processing applications, issuing payments and monitoring for accuracy of payments.

There is no repayment of statutory transfer payments, unless a WEPP recipient receives an overpayment. When available, dividends from insolvent employer estates are returned to the fund.

Expected results

WEPP applicants receive a payment, or a non-payment notification, in a timely manner

Performance measures: Percentage of initial WEPP payments and non-payment notifications issued within 35 calendar days; 2017–18 Target: 80%

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

2013–14

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

2021–22

General targeted recipient groups

All employed workers in Canada, irrespective of jurisdiction. The WEPP provides financial support to workers who are owed wages and vacation, termination and severance pay from their insolvent employer due to bankruptcy or receivership. Workers may receive a payment of up to four weeks of maximum insurable earnings under the Employment Insurance Act.

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

In 2014–15, the Labour Program completed the five-year statutory review of the Wage Earner Protection Program Act, its operations and administration, which culminated with the tabling of a Report in both Houses of Parliament on June 18, 2015. Subsequent to the review, the Labour program continues to engage with internal and external stakeholders to identify ways to improve the administration and service delivery.

The WEPP again surpassed its service delivery standard and ensured applicants receive payments in timely manner. This year, 99% of initial payment and non-payment notifications were processed within 35 days, which significantly exceeded the 80 percent target. In 2016–17, nearly 9,000 workers received WEPP payments (with 50% receiving the WEPP maximum, while the average WEPP payment was $2,647). In 2017, the WEPP maximum payment is $3,946 which is subject to a 6.82% deduction.

Name of transfer payment program

Old Age Security Pension (Statutory)

Start date

1952

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Grant

Type of appropriation

Statutory: Old Age Security Act

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

Not applicable

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Pensions and Benefits

Program: Old Age Security

Description

The Old Age Security program is the first pillar of Canada’s retirement income system. Its objective is to ensure a minimum income for seniors, and to mitigate income disruptions at retirement. The Old Age Security program is funded by general tax revenues. The program includes three benefits: The Old Age Security Pension, the Guaranteed Income Supplement, and Allowances. The Old Age Security Pension is a monthly payment to all Canadians aged 65 or older who meet the residence and legal status requirements. To be eligible for the pension, an individual must have resided in Canada for at least 10 years after the age of 18. The Guaranteed Income Supplement provides additional assistance to Old Age Security pensioners with little or no income. Entitlement to the Guaranteed Income Supplement is based on the marital status and the annual net income of the individual, and their spouse or common-law partner when applicable. The Guaranteed Income Supplement is income-tested to ensure that the highest benefits are paid to the lowest-income seniors. The Allowances provide benefits to low-income 60 to 64 year-old individuals who are either the spouse or common-law partner of a Guaranteed Income Supplement recipient (the Allowance), or who are a widow/widower (the Allowance for the survivor). The Allowances are income-tested to ensure that the highest benefits are paid to the lowest-income seniors.

Expected results

Seniors have income support for retirement

Performance measure: Percentage of seniors receiving the Old Age Security pension in relation to the total number of eligible seniors.2018–19 Target: 98%

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

2012–13

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

• The Evaluation of Old Age Security is currently in progress and is scheduled to be completed in 2017–18 (Phase 1) and 2018–19 (Phase 2)
• The Evaluation of OAS/GIS Service Improvement is scheduled to be completed in 2021–22

General targeted recipient groups

Seniors aged 65 and over

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

As part of its modernization and transformation agendas, the Department continues to implement automatic enrolment for OAS benefits. The first two phases of automatic enrolment, which were implemented in 2013 and 2016 respectively, allowed many new seniors to receive the OAS pension automatically, without the need to apply. As the second phase of the initiative continues to be implemented throughout 2018–19, it is expected that over 50% of new pensioners will receive the OAS pension without having to apply.

Name of transfer payment program

Guaranteed Income Supplement (Statutory)

Start date

1967

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Grant

Type of appropriation

Statutory: Old Age Security Act

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

Not applicable

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Pensions and Benefits

Program: Old Age Security

Description

The Old Age Security program is the first pillar of Canada’s retirement income system. Its objective is to ensure a minimum income for seniors, and to mitigate income disruptions at retirement. The Old Age Security program is funded by general tax revenues. The program includes three benefits: The Old Age Security pension, the Guaranteed Income Supplement, and Allowances. The Old Age Security pension is a monthly payment to all Canadians aged 65 or older who meet the residence and legal status requirements. To be eligible for the pension, an individual must have resided in Canada for at least 10 years after the age of 18. The Guaranteed Income Supplement provides additional assistance to Old Age Security pensioners with little or no income. Entitlement to the Guaranteed Income Supplement is based on the marital status and the annual net income of the individual, and their spouse or common-law partner when applicable. The Guaranteed Income Supplement is income-tested to ensure that the highest benefits are paid to the lowest-income seniors. The Allowances provide benefits to low-income 60 to 64 year-old individuals who are either the spouse or common-law partner of a Guaranteed Income Supplement recipient (the Allowance), or who are a widow/widower (the Allowance for the survivor). The Allowances are income-tested to ensure that the highest benefits are paid to the lowest-income seniors.

Expected results

Seniors have income support for retirement.

Performance measure: Percentage of seniors receiving the GIS in relation to the total number of eligible seniors. 2018–19 Target: 90%

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

2012–13

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

The Evaluation of the Guaranteed Income Supplement Take-up is scheduled to be completed in 2019–20.The Evaluation of OAS/GIS Service Improvement is scheduled to be completed in 2021–22.

General targeted recipient groups

Low-income seniors aged 65 and over

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

As part of its modernization and transformation agendas, the Department continues to implement automatic enrolment for OAS benefits. The first two phases of automatic enrolment, which were implemented in 2013 and 2016 respectively, allowed many new seniors to receive the OAS pension automatically, without the need to apply. Legislative and regulatory amendments came into force in November 2017 to allow for the implementation of the third phase of automatic enrolment, that is, automatic enrolment for the GIS. New pensioners who are automatically enrolled for the OAS pension will be automatically assessed for the GIS year after year, without having to fill in a separate application.

Name of transfer payment program

Allowances (Statutory)

Start date

1975 – Allowance; 1985 – Allowance for the Survivor

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Grant

Type of appropriation

Statutory: Old Age Security Act

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

Not applicable

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Pensions and Benefits

Program: Old Age Security

Description

The Old Age Security program is the first pillar of Canada’s retirement income system. Its objective is to ensure a minimum income for seniors, and to mitigate income disruptions at retirement. The Old Age Security program is funded by general tax revenues. The program includes three benefits: The Old Age Security pension, the Guaranteed Income Supplement, and Allowances. The Old Age Security pension is a monthly payment to all Canadians aged 65 or older who meet the residence and legal status requirements. To be eligible for the pension, an individual must have resided in Canada for at least 10 years after the age of 18. The Guaranteed Income Supplement provides additional assistance to Old Age Security pensioners with little or no income. Entitlement to the Guaranteed Income Supplement is based on the marital status and the annual net income of the individual, and their spouse or common-law partner when applicable. The Guaranteed Income Supplement is income-tested to ensure that the highest benefits are paid to the lowest-income seniors. The Allowances provide benefits to low-income 60 to 64 year-old individuals who are either the spouse or common-law partner of a Guaranteed Income Supplement recipient (the Allowance), or who are a widow/widower (the Allowance for the survivor). The Allowances are income-tested to ensure that the highest benefits are paid to the lowest-income seniors.

Expected results

This measure is no longer reported as the data do not allow for a clear distinction between near-seniors who are entitled to the Allowances and those who are not.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

2012–13

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

2018–19

General targeted recipient groups

Low-income near-seniors aged 60 to 64

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

The Department undertakes a variety of initiatives to ensure individuals are aware of, and apply for, benefits to which they are entitled. This includes proactive mailings to potential beneficiaries, inclusion of information with annual tax slips, enhancement of Service Canada channels (Web, phone, in person), outreach services for those potentially eligible and discussions with other government departments, municipal governments and community service providers to identify opportunities for partnership to increase take-up.

Name of transfer payment program

Canada Disability Savings Program – Canada Disability Savings Grants and Canada Disability Savings Bonds (Statutory)

Start date

December 2008

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Grant

Type of appropriation

Statutory: Canada Disability Savings Act and Canada Disability Savings Regulations

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

Not applicable

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Pensions and Benefits

Program: Canada Disability Savings program

Description

The Canada Disability Savings Program (CDSP) was created to assist families in providing for the financial security of people with severe disabilities. Canada Disability Savings Grants (grants) are matching grants on private contributions to a Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) of up to 300% depending upon the beneficiary’s family income and amount contributed. Grants may be paid into a plan until the end of the calendar year in which the beneficiary turns 49 years old. There is no annual contribution limit, but there is a maximum lifetime contribution limit of $200,000. The government also deposits Canada Disability Savings Bonds into the plans of low- and modest-income Canadians. The bond amount can be up to $1,000 a year depending upon the beneficiary’s family income. No contributions are necessary to receive a bond. Bonds may be paid into the plan until the end of the calendar year in which the beneficiary turns 49 years old. The program is administered by two directorates. The Office for Disability Issues within the Income Security and Social Development Branch, is responsible for the overall policy development, communications and development of outreach products, performance measurement, monitoring, and evaluation. The Canada Education Savings Program within the Learning Branch is responsible for issuer and client support services, training, compliance and undertaking the necessary development and maintenance of the program’s administrative system.

Expected results

Eligible individuals with severe disabilities (and their families/ guardians) open Registered Disability Savings Plans to save for the future.

Performance measure: Total number of registered plans since the inception of the program. 2018–19 Target: 201,712.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

2014–15 formative evaluation

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

The Summative Evaluation, Phase II, of the Canada Disability Savings Program is scheduled to be completed in 2018–19

General targeted recipient groups

Canadian residents under the age of 60 (if they are 59, they must open a Registered Disability Savings Plan by the end of the calendar year in which they turn 59) who have a valid Social Insurance Number and are eligible to claim the Disability Tax Credit.

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

Ongoing and planned activities to increase program awareness, understanding and take-up include the following:

• mail-outs targeting DTC-eligible Canadians who do not have an RDSP
• teleconferences following the mail-outs to answer inquiries
• fact sheets and brochures are distributed at conferences or provided to stakeholder groups
• exhibiting at conferences and events across Canada; Conferences and events are attended by service providers, practitioners, people with disabilities and their families, and the general public
• Stakeholder engagement meetings/discussions in the locations of conferences and events

Name of transfer payment program

Homelessness Partnering Strategy (Voted)

Start date

April 1, 2014

End date

March 31, 2019

Type of transfer payment

Grant and contribution

Type of appropriation

Vote 5

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2013–14

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Social Development

Program: Homelessness Partnering Strategy

Description

The Homelessness Partnering Strategy supports community-based solutions to prevent and reduce homelessness across Canada. It provides Grant and contribution funding to communities and service providers with a focus on the Housing First approach, providing access to permanent housing and supports to help clients remain housed. Services are targeted to individuals and families who are homeless or at imminent risk of becoming homeless in major urban centers, rural communities and the North. Federal funding is prioritized based on input from Community Advisory Boards, in recognition that communities are best placed to identify their homelessness-related needs. The program collects and analyzes homelessness data through the Homeless Individuals and Families Information System, which collects statistics on shelter use, and the coordinated Point-in-Time count, by which communities measure their progress in reducing homelessness. The program shares knowledge among communities, partners and stakeholders and explores innovative approaches to homelessness, and makes surplus federal properties available to communities for projects that prevent and reduce homelessness. Surplus properties are managed in partnership with Public Services and Procurement Canada and Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. The program is a Transfer Payment Program with non-repayable grants and contributions; however, some repayment clauses are outlined in the Terms and Conditions.

Expected results

Homelessness in Canada is prevented and reduced

Performance measures:

• Reduction in the estimated number of shelter users who are episodically or chronically homeless; 2018–19 Target: 20% reduction from 2013 baseline of 1,988
• Housing stability for homeless individuals and those at risk of becoming homeless

Performance measures:

• Number of people placed in more stable housing through Homelessness Partnering Strategy interventions, including Housing First; 2018–19 Target: 15,000
• Reduction in the usage of emergency shelters, as measured by number of “bednights” utilized; 2018–19 Target: 15% reduction from the 2013 baseline of 4,970,010

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

Evaluation of the Homelessness Partnering Strategy is scheduled to be completed in 2017–18.

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

2021–22

General targeted recipient groups

The following recipients are eligible for HPS funding: not-for-profit organizations; individuals; municipalities; for-profit organizations; public health and educational institutions; Indigenous organizations; and provincial and territorial governments and their entities, including institutions and agencies. These groups are eligible to receive funding and act as coordinators for activities. In Quebec, health and social services agencies are eligible for funding consistent with a formal Canada-Quebec agreement.

For-profit organizations may be eligible for funding provided that the nature and intent of the activity is: non-commercial; not intended to generate profit; based on fair market value; supports program priorities and objectives; and fits within the community plan (or identified local need where community plans are not required).

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

As a community-based and partnership-enhancing program, the HPS engages and seeks to build relationships with a wide range of partners and stakeholders. To engage applicants and recipients, the HPS uses various methods, such as calls for proposals, targeted solicitation of applications, unsolicited proposals and expressions of interest or letters of intent.

Name of transfer payment program

Enabling Accessibility Fund (Voted)

Start date

The Enabling Accessibility Fund was introduced in Budget 2007, renewed in Budget 2010 for an additional three years and extended on an ongoing basis through Budget 2013.

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Grant

Type of appropriation

Vote 5

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

New terms and conditions were approved in September 2013.

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Social Development

Program: Enabling Accessibility Fund

Description

People with disabilities often experience barriers to their full participation and inclusion in activities of everyday living. To support full participation of people with disabilities in Canadian society, the Government of Canada, through the Enabling Accessibility Fund is taking concrete action to ensure greater accessibility and opportunities for Canadians with disabilities. The Enabling Accessibility Fund provides funding to increase accessibility and eliminate barriers in communities and workplaces across Canada. Grants or contributions are provided to eligible recipients for capital cost projects that increase access for people with disabilities to programs and services, which in turn can create an equal opportunity for people with disabilities to participate in community activities or access employment opportunities. The program has two funding streams: the Workplace Accessibility Stream and the Community Accessibility Stream. Competitive processes are usually held once a year to provide grant funding for small projects (up to $100K, but typically limited to $50K during calls for proposals to help manage demand). The Program also allows mid-sized projects to be funded through multi-year contributions (up to $3M). Mid-sized projects have a greater scope and impact than small projects. Eligible recipients under the Enabling Accessibility Fund are: not-for-profit organizations; municipalities; indigenous organizations; Territorial governments, and for-profit organizations.

Expected results

Community spaces and workplaces are more accessible.

Performance measure: Number of community spaces and workplaces that are more accessible due to Enabling Accessibility Fund funding; 2018–19: 637.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

2017–18

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

2022–23

General targeted recipient groups

Persons with disabilities across Canada through eligible funding recipients, that is, not-for-profit organizations, for-profit organizations, municipalities, Aboriginal organizations (including band councils, tribal councils and self-government entities) and territorial governments.

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

In 2017–18, a Call for Proposals (CFP) was held for small projects under the Community and Workplace Accessibility funding streams of the EAF. A complete communication package, including media lines and questions and answers, have been developed for the CFP. Also, departmental officials responded to public inquiries submitted through the generic email box of the program during the CFP. These inquiries were related to eligibility criteria of the CFP. Answers provided by the Department have helped interested applicant in developing and submitting their proposals.

Name of transfer payment program

Social Development Partnerships Program (Voted)

Start date

April 1998

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Grant and contribution

Type of appropriation

Vote 5

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

Grants and Contributions were last amended in 2017–18

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Social Development

Program: Social Development Partnerships Program

Description

The Social Development Partnerships Program (SDPP) is a grants and contributions program that supports Government of Canada priorities through investment in not-for-profit organizations aiming to improve the life outcomes for people with disabilities, children and families, and other vulnerable populations (objectives are identified in the next section). Children and families, people with disabilities, and other vulnerable populations have unique social development needs that are compounded by physical, economic and social pressures. As a result, they may experience a diminished quality of life, with limited ability to participate in the workplace or to contribute to their communities.

The program has a $20M annual budget supporting two components: Disability Component ($11M) and Children and Families Component ($9.1M). For further details on the SDPP components see Annex E.

SDPP funding is provided through Grants and Contributions (Gs & Cs), to eligible organizations, including, NFPs. The use of Gs & Cs investments represents a flexible and cost-effective way to support the role that communities, NFPs and voluntary sector organizations play in helping vulnerable populations. The Program supports the development of approaches, knowledge, partnerships, tools and skills to respond to current and emerging social issues.

Expected results

Not-for-profit organizations have improved services for children, families, people with disabilities and other vulnerable individuals.

Performance measures:

• Amount invested by non-federal partners for every dollar invested through Social Development Partnerships Program; 2018–19 Target: A range of $0.30 to $1
• Number of children, families or other vulnerable individuals who directly benefitted from the services provided by the Social Development Partnerships Program projects; 2018–19 Target: Baseline year
• Not-for-profit sector and partners have improved capacity to respond to existing and emerging social issues for target populations

Performance measure: Percentage of Social Development Partnerships Program projects that leverage funds from non-federal partners; 2018–19 Target: 90%

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

2014–15

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

2019–20

General targeted recipient groups

Not-for-profit organizations, including registered charities and social enterprises actively pursuing activities in line with SDPP objectives.

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

SDPP-Children and Families: SDPP Children and Families uses various methods to engage applicants and recipients, such as targeted solicitation of applications, unsolicited proposals and expressions of interest or letters of intent.

SDPP-Disability: In 2016, the SDPP-D conducted stakeholder engagement as part of the SDPP-D renewal with a goal to designing a performance and accountability framework. The framework will enhance fairness, transparency and predictability in funding while being relevant to the disability community. A steering committee was established and included a broad and inclusive group of representatives from the disability community to inform the development of the framework. Work continued throughout 2017–18 to refine and finalize the framework with the launch of a CFP in late 2017–18.

Name of transfer payment program

New Horizons for Seniors Program (Voted)

Start date

• Original program: October 1, 2004
• Expanded Program: September 27, 2007
• Enhanced Program: September 30, 2010

End date

Ongoing

Type of transfer payment

Grant and contribution

Type of appropriation

Vote 5

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

Terms and Conditions were last amended in 2013

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Social Development

Program: New Horizons for Seniors Program

Description

The New Horizons for Seniors Program supports the Government of Canada’s overarching social goals to enhance the quality of life and promote the full participation of individuals in all aspects of Canadian society. In doing so, New Horizons for Seniors Program initiatives at the national, regional and community level address seniors’ issues through partnerships and the engagement and contributions of seniors themselves. The New Horizons for Seniors Program’s design includes two streams: Community-based grants and Pan-Canadian projects. Community-based grants, administered by Service Canada regional offices, address social challenges ‘on the ground’ and recognize communities as the focal point for program and service delivery. Funded projects are: volunteer-based; supported by communities; inspired or led by seniors; and, address one or more of the five program objectives. Selected through annual calls for proposals, the one-year projects are up to $25K in value. Pan-Canadian projects, administered by the National Grants and Contributions Delivery Centre, receive up to $750K for up to three years in contribution or grant funding, and have a wider reach and impact to address a specific seniors' issue. In 2014, the focus on elder abuse awareness within the pan-Canadian stream was broadened in order to direct collective impact investments toward reducing the social isolation of seniors.

Expected results

Communities have the capacity to address local issues by engaging seniors.

Performance measure: Total number of New Horizons for Seniors Program projects that received funding; 2018–19 Target: 1850. Communities have the capacity to address local issues by engaging seniors.

Performance measure: Number of seniors who participated in community projects; 2018–19 Target: 369,000. Recipients organizations recognize and address barriers to social inclusion faced by seniors.

Performance measure: Reduction in the number of targeted seniors who have been identified as being socially isolated; 2018–19 Target: Baseline being developed in 2018–19.

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

The Summative Evaluation of the New Horizons for Seniors Program was completed in 2015–16. Evaluation findings can be found on the ESDC website:

• ESDC Evaluation reports

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

The Evaluation of the New Horizons for Seniors Program is scheduled to be completed in 2019–20.

General targeted recipient groups

The NHSP has a broad array of eligible recipients, including not-for-profit organizations, coalitions, for-profit enterprises, Indigenous organizations, municipal governments and research and educational institutions.

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

Information about NHSP calls for proposals is posted on Employment and Social Development Canada's website and shared with networks. For the annual Community-Based Projects CFP, potential applicants are engaged as part of the community outreach activities performed by Service Canada. In addition, a systematic approach to identify Community-Based project best practices is being developed and once completed, these best practices will be disseminated broadly, including with future applicants.

Name of transfer payment program

Universal Child Care Benefit (Statutory)

Start date

July 1, 2006

End date

Replaced by the Canada Child Benefit in July 2016. ESDC continues to be responsible for retroactive claims, write-offs and adjustments of the UCCB account receivable.

Type of transfer payment

Grant

Type of appropriation

Statutory: Universal Child Care Benefit Act

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2006–07

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Social Development

Program: Early Learning and Child Care

Description

The Universal Child Care Benefit provides financial support to help all Canadian families with young children choose the child care option that best suits their families’ needs. Effective January 1, 2015, the UCCB was enhanced to provide eligible families with $160 per month (up to $1,920 per year) for each child under age six, and a new benefit of $60 per month (up to $720 per year) for each child aged six through 17. The new amounts began to be reflected in monthly payments to recipients in July 2015 and included payments retroactive to January 2015.

The UCCB was replaced by the Canada Child Benefit effective July 1, 2016.

Expected results

No longer applicable.

Performance measure:

Total number of New Horizons for Seniors Program projects that received funding; 2017–2018 Target: 1,850

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

2011–12

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Continuation

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

No longer applicable.

General targeted recipient groups

Families with children under the age of eighteen

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

No longer applicable.

Name of transfer payment program

Early Learning and Child Care (ELCC)

Start date

April 2017

End date

March 2028

Type of transfer payment

Grant and contribution

Type of appropriation

Vote 5

Fiscal year for terms and conditions

2017

Link to department's program inventory

Core Responsibility: Social Development

Program: Early Learning and Child Care

Description

The early years of life are critical in the development and future well-being of the child and continuum of learning. The evidence is clear that there are positive relationships between quality early learning and child care (ELCC), especially for less advantaged children, parental labour market participation, especially for women, and child developmental outcomes. Yet, only 1 in 4 children in Canada have access to regulated ELCC. Affordability also remains a concern for many families. To begin addressing these gaps, on June 12, 2017, the Government of Canada announced a historic agreement with provincial and territorial governments on a Multilateral ELCC Framework. The Framework sets the foundation for governments to work towards a shared long term vision where all children can experience the enriching environment of quality ELCC. To work towards this vision, the Framework is based on a set of principles that guide investments towards increasing the quality, accessibility, affordability, flexibility and inclusivity of ELCC, with consideration for families more in need. The Government of Canada is entering into three-year bilateral agreements with provinces and territories to implement the Multilateral ELCC Framework.

Expected results

Access to early learning and child care is increased

Performance measures:

1. Number of children in regulated child care spaces and/or early learning programs; Targets are currently being discussed with provinces and territories and will be established in fiscal year 2017–18; 2017–18 is a baseline year, and data is not yet available. Results on targets will be available in 2019–20
2. Number of children receiving subsidies or other financial supports; Targets are currently being discussed with provinces and territories and will be established in fiscal year 2017–18; 2017–18 is a baseline year, and data is not yet available. Results on targets will be available in 2019–20

Fiscal year of last completed evaluation

Not applicable

Decision following the results of last evaluation

Not applicable

Fiscal year of planned completion of next evaluation

2022–23

General targeted recipient groups

The recipients of this transfer payment program are provincial and territorial governments. Provinces and territories will invest in regulated early learning and child care programs and services for children under age six.

Initiatives to engage applicants and recipients

ESDC works with provinces and territories throughout their bilateral agreements including the development of action plans and review of annual reporting.