Shaping Inclusive Communities Podcast: Episode 4

Episode Four: Prosper Canada and Financial Empowerment

Almost 12% of Canadians do not file an annual tax return, leaving nearly $2 billion in government benefits unclaimed each year. What if you qualify for supports you never knew existed?

That question is at the center of the latest episode of the Shaping Inclusive Communities podcast. Host Emily Hurd speaks with a representative from Prosper Canada about financial empowerment and the barriers people experiencing disability face when navigating financial supports.

The guest points to national and Saskatchewan data showing disparities in poverty and employment, and explains why improving access to financial supports is essential to closing those gaps.

One barrier is surprisingly simple: people do not always know what benefits are available to them. The episode explores the connection between filing an annual tax return and unlocking government benefits, including the $2 billion that goes unclaimed every year.

To help address this gap, Prosper Canada has developed two free tools, each designed for a different kind of need.

Benefits Wayfinder helps people explore federal, provincial and municipal benefits they qualify for. Users can search by area (education, housing, disability, childcare) or complete a questionnaire for a personalized list. The tool covers more than 400 benefits and is updated regularly to reflect government changes.

Disability Benefits Compass was created in response to the complexity of disability benefit applications. It provides accessible guidance on major federal and provincial disability benefits, including application tips, practical advice, downloadable resources, and referrals to organizations that can offer one-on-one help.

“Access to benefits is a vital part of holistic wellness and poverty reduction.”

The tools are not just for individuals. Family members, caregivers, and community organizations can use them to run a benefit “health check,” identify potential supports, develop next steps, and connect people with free application assistance.

Whether you are exploring benefits for yourself, supporting a family member, or helping others navigate what is available, this episode offers practical information and free resources that can make the process easier.

About the Shaping Inclusive Communities podcast

The Shaping Inclusive Communities podcast was inspired by the success of the Shaping Inclusive Communities conference. After two days of learning, discussion, and collaboration, attendees submitted more than 200 questions, creating an opportunity to continue these conversations in a format accessible to everyone.

Hosted by SaskAbilities, the podcast features conversations with individuals experiencing disability, family members, staff, community partners, and subject matter experts who share their perspectives on inclusion, accessibility, employment, recreation, adaptive technology, and building stronger communities.

Listen to Episode Four: Prosper Canada and Financial Empowerment on YouTube, and follow SaskAbilities on Facebook to be notified when new episodes are released.

Together, through meaningful conversations and shared experiences, we can continue working to build inclusive communities for people of all abilities.