public provision for the economic, and sometimes social, welfare of elderly people, unemployed people, etc, esp through pensions and other monetary assistance
2. (often capitals)
a government programme designed to provide such assistance
Examples of 'social assistance' in a sentence
social assistance
But for those in dire straits, social assistance should be available.
Globe and Mail (2003)
In all, $1.7 trillion of cuts to social assistance are expected over the decade.
Times, Sunday Times (2017)
The energy firms have agreed to boost their collective annual spending on social assistance programmes by 225m over the next three years.
Times, Sunday Times (2008)
If a strike occurs, the union pledges to continue delivery of social-assistance and government pension cheques.
Globe and Mail (2003)
Canada's outlays were down a lot from 14.3 per cent in 1992, mainly because of cuts to federal employment insurance and provincial social assistance.
Globe and Mail (2003)
Vacancies rose in several industries over the year, with the largest gains in healthcare and social assistance, retail trade and government.
Times, Sunday Times (2015)
Although people on social assistance are not supposed to use the shelter system, it happens.
Globe and Mail (2003)
The national economy also provides adequate work, or social assistance, to see that food and lodging are available.
Times, Sunday Times (2007)
He reformed the financing of the welfare system and introduced a minimum level of social assistance.
social assistance in British English