Canada is a country that cares for its residents

There are numbers of Social programs offered by the Provinces and Territories. In addition to the free healthcare program and children education until grade 12, Canada provides the following social programs:

• HEALTH

  Canada has one of the finest health care systems in the world. The hospitals are state-of-the art, with health clinics and doctors' offices located in most communities. For the most part, the health services are free to Canadian citizens and residents who are registered under the health program.

• EDUCATION

  Today, getting a good education is more important than ever. It's the very best thing to ensure a better, more prosperous future for yourself and your children. Canada's public education system is free of charge, individually governed by each province, and available to all until Grade 12.

• CHILDCARE

  In cooperation with each other, the Federal and Provincial governments provide certain payment amounts every month (Childcare Benefit) for each child in the family. The amount varies, and will depend on the number of children in the family, and the annual income earned by the parents.

• CANADA PENSION PLAN

  Almost all individuals working in Canada will contribute to the Canada Pension Plan. The CPP provides pension payments and benefit cheques when contributors retire, become disabled, or die. Here again, pension amounts depend on various criteria, and are formulated accordingly.

• OLD AGE SECURITY

  Canada's Old Age Security pension is a monthly payment that is available to most people who are 65 years of age or older. There are legal status and residence requirements. Employment history is not a factor and does determine eligibility. OAS is available to those who have never worked.

• SOCIAL WELFARE

  Canadian residents are entitled to social welfare allowance from the government under certain circumstances. Social welfare allowance is available to those who cannot support themselves for various reasons. As well, those who cannot work or get a job are also eligible for social welfare.

• UNEMPLOYMENT

  In Canada, Employment Insurance is a social program designed to provide temporary financial assistance to Canadians who are unemployed. There are criteria for eligibility as unemployed, but EI is also available in special cases to those who are sick, pregnant, or caring for a family member.