Welcome to the relaunch of We Advocate , a podcast where lawyer Gordon VanderLeek and disability advocate Annie VanderLeek break down the Alberta government’s proposed Alberta Disability Assistance Program (ADAP) and what it means for Albertans living with disabilities.
In this first episode, they explore the government’s goals for ADAP, how it compares to the long-standing AISH (Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped) program, and why the change has many people worried.
In This Episode
- What is ADAP?
The Alberta government plans to launch ADAP in July 2026 as a “modernized” program that runs alongside AISH, focusing on those who have some ability to work. - A Two-Track System:
ADAP will apply to people who can work in some capacity, while AISH will remain for those who cannot work due to permanent disabilities. - The Financial Impact:
- Current AISH benefit: $1,901/month, rising to $1,940 in 2026.
- ADAP benefit: $1,740/month — a $200 reduction for those deemed able to work.
The government says this can be offset by increased earnings — but many question how realistic that is given Alberta’s job market and support limitations.
- Health Benefits & Positives:
ADAP promises continued access to health and prescription benefits even for those working, which Gordon and Annie agree would be a positive — if it’s implemented as promised. - Concerns About Stigma & Reality:
Annie points out that the new program risks reinforcing stigma — implying people on AISH aren’t working by choice, when most already face barriers that prevent full employment. - Bigger Picture:
Rather than scrap and rebuild, the hosts question: Why not improve AISH instead? They argue the system already allows people to work within set income limits and simply needs refinement, not replacement.
Key Takeaways
- ADAP introduces a two-tier system that separates people with disabilities based on perceived ability to work.
- The $200 monthly reduction creates additional financial strain in an already tight cost-of-living environment.
- Health benefit continuity could be a positive change, but details remain unclear.
- The government’s claim that the disability community asked for this reform appears unsupported by public feedback.
- Gordon and Annie emphasize the need for transparency, advocacy, and community awareness before ADAP rolls out in 2026.
