Alberta’s government will implement the new prenatal benefit for pregnant women on AISH and Income Support at the start of their second trimester to provide eligible clients with $100 per month until the baby is born – for a total of $600. This is on top of a one-time natal benefit of $256 for expectant mothers at 36 weeks of pregnancy.

As part of Alberta’s Recovery Plan, the government is providing businesses and families with the help they need to get back on their feet as the economy recovers. Women with limited resources often face a number of challenges during pregnancy. This new benefit, highlighted in the recent speech from the throne, will provide mothers with more funds to put toward their health and wellness.

The February 22, 2022 Speech from the Throne stated that:
“Many vulnerable women and girls have inadequate support during pregnancy, which can effect their child’s health and life chances. To assist low-income mothers and improve health outcomes for their babies, the government will significantly increase and expand prenatal benefits to mothers receiving AISH and Income Support.”

“Providing more support for vulnerable expectant mothers is a positive, common sense step and compassionate step. This is about helping moms facing poverty, while improving health outcomes for their babies.”

Jason Kenney, Premier

“The research is clear. Providing support early in a woman’s pregnancy can result in both healthier pregnancies and babies and better long-term outcomes. Initiatives like this helps Alberta’s Recovery Plan ensure we’re not only helping people today but we’re building a stronger foundation for tomorrow.”

Jason Luan, Minister of Community and Social Services

Research shows, providing early support in a woman’s pregnancy can result in healthier pregnancies and babies and better long-term outcomes.

“The rising cost of living is intensifying the challenges faced by vulnerable individuals, especially women. The additional benefit announced today is a very positive step by the Alberta government to recognize the distinct financial strain faced by expectant mothers. This benefit will help already vulnerable women cover some of the unique costs that arise during pregnancy, such as clothes that fit their growing belly and shoes to fit their swollen feet. Most importantly, this benefit will provide a little extra money for nutritious food and vitamins as well as cribs and clothing for a safe and healthy infant.”

Tricia Smith, executive director, Boyle McCauley Health Centre

“Every woman who is on AISH and is pregnant is deeply in need of support to have the best outcome for her baby. A little extra cash enables the mother and her support staff to pay for all things a baby needs. For instance, every baby needs a car seat. In addition, every baby needs great nutrition and a low-stress home environment to start growing in. The most important developmental period for a child starts in utero and extends into the preschool years. Good nutrition and a low-stress home environment set a baby up for a great start. The baby with a great start becomes a teen finishing high school and an adult with job skills. The additional funds announced by the Premier today will provide much-needed extra support for a mother and her baby at the time of her birth.”

Dr. John Lilley, co-chair, Pregnancy Pathways

Quick facts

  • The AISH and Income Support programs currently provide a one-time natal benefit of $256 for expectant mothers at 36 weeks of pregnancy.
  • These benefits are intended to support new parents with the costs of preparing for a new child.
  • Approximately 2,500 Income Support and AISH clients receive natal benefits each year.
  • The new prenatal benefit will increase supports for pregnant women by $600.
  • This enhancement will cost an estimated $1.5 million annually.
  • The changes will be in place May 1.
Alberta's Recovery Plan