Funerals can be a significant financial burden, especially when unexpected. Fortunately, there are resources in Manitoba that can help reduce funeral costs for families in need. This guide outlines federal, provincial, and local support options that may be available to you.
Federal Resources
Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Death Benefit
The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) provides a one-time death benefit of up to $2,500 to help cover funeral expenses if the deceased contributed to the plan.
- Eligibility: The deceased must have contributed to CPP during their working life.
- How to apply: The application can be submitted through Service Canada by the estate executor or next of kin.
Veterans Affairs Canada Funeral and Burial Program
Veterans Affairs Canada offers funeral assistance to veterans who passed away due to service-related causes or whose family cannot afford funeral costs. The Funeral and Burial Program can cover necessary expenses.
- How to apply: Contact Veterans Affairs Canada for eligibility information and application processes.
Indigenous Services Canada – Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB)
For First Nations and Inuit individuals, Indigenous Services Canada provides support for funeral and burial costs through the Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program. This program covers necessary expenses, including the transportation of the deceased.
- Eligibility: Available to First Nations and Inuit individuals.
- How to apply: Visit the Indigenous Services Canada website or contact your local community health services.
Provincial Resources
Employment and Income Assistance (EIA) Funeral Benefits
Manitoba offers funeral benefits through the Employment and Income Assistance (EIA) program. These benefits help cover the cost of a basic funeral, burial, or cremation for low-income families.
- Eligibility: Available to individuals receiving EIA or those with no financial means to cover funeral expenses.
- What’s covered: Basic cremation or burial, transportation of the deceased, and essential funeral costs.
- How to apply: Contact Manitoba’s Employment and Income Assistance office for more information and application guidance.
Manitoba Employment Standards – Death Benefits
Some employment contracts or union agreements may provide for death benefits, which can help cover funeral costs. Be sure to check with the deceased’s employer or union representative to determine if any benefits are available.
- How to inquire: Contact the employer or Manitoba’s Employment Standards office for further details.
Local and Community Resources
Local Charitable Organizations
Many charitable organizations in Manitoba offer support to those struggling to afford funeral costs. Some organizations include:
- The Salvation Army: Often provides financial assistance and funeral support to low-income families.
- Local Churches, Mosques, and Temples: Religious organizations often assist with funeral expenses, offer venues, or provide community support.
- See table below.
Crowdfunding and Community Support
Many families in Manitoba turn to crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe to raise funds for funeral expenses. This allows family, friends, and the broader community to contribute directly to the funeral costs.
Funeral Homes with Payment Plans
Some funeral homes in Manitoba offer payment plans or reduced-cost services to help families cover funeral expenses over time. Contact funeral homes in your area to inquire about these options.
Donate Your Body or Tissue After Death and Receive Free Funeral Arrangements
Choosing to donate your body or tissues after death is an extraordinary way to contribute to medical research, education, or even save lives through organ transplants. In Canada, various organizations and medical schools offer programs where you can make this gift, and in many cases, they provide free cremation services as part of the donation process. This page explores how these programs work, what they seek, and whether they cover funeral arrangements, offering a meaningful way to reduce funeral costs while leaving a lasting legacy.
The University of Manitoba, has a Body Donation Program where donated bodies are used for medical research. A free cremation funeral is available for donor families. Ashes are returned. Click here for further info
Table of Resources for Funeral Support in Manitoba
Here’s a table summarizing all the resources available for funeral support in Manitoba:
| Resource | Amount of Money Available | Link to More Information |
|---|---|---|
| Canada Pension Plan (CPP) Death Benefit | Up to $2,500 | CPP Death Benefit |
| Veterans Affairs Canada Funeral and Burial Program | Varies based on need and service | Veterans Affairs Canada |
| Indigenous Services Canada – Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) | Varies, covers transportation and burial | Indigenous Services Canada |
| Employment and Income Assistance (EIA) Funeral Benefits | Covers basic funeral costs | EIA Funeral Benefits |
| Local Religious and Charitable Organizations | Varies based on organization | Contact local organizations directly (see charities below) |
| Crowdfunding (e.g., GoFundMe) | Varies based on contributions | GoFundMe |
| Funeral Homes with Payment Plans | Flexible payment options | Contact local funeral homes for details |
| University of Manitoba Body Donation Program | Free cremation funeral | Info here |
Additional Sources of Information
Navigating funeral costs can be overwhelming, but several resources can help you find support:
- Funeral Service Association of Manitoba: This organization provides general advice on funeral services and regulations in the province. Visit Funeral Service Association of Manitoba for more information.
- Manitoba Employment and Income Assistance: Visit the EIA website or contact their office for details on provincial benefits.
- Service Canada: For federal benefits such as the CPP Death Benefit, visit Service Canada for more information and applications.
Table of Charitable Resources in Manitoba
| Charity Name | Amount Available | Who Qualifies | Contact Information |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Salvation Army – Manitoba Division | Varies based on need | Low-income individuals and families unable to afford funeral costs | Salvation Army Manitoba Phone: 1-800-725-2769 |
| St. Vincent de Paul Society – Manitoba | Varies based on need | Individuals or families in financial distress, including those facing funeral costs | St. Vincent de Paul Manitoba Phone: 204-254-0900 |
| Jewish Child and Family Service | Varies based on need | Jewish community members facing financial difficulty for funeral expenses | Jewish Child and Family Service Phone: 204-477-7430 |
| Siloam Mission | Varies based on need | Individuals experiencing homelessness or financial distress in Winnipeg | Siloam Mission Phone: 204-956-4344 |
| Union Gospel Mission – Winnipeg | Varies based on need | Individuals facing poverty or homelessness in Winnipeg | Union Gospel Mission Winnipeg Phone: 204-943-9904 |
| Muslim Food Bank and Community Services Society | Varies based on need | Muslim families and individuals in financial distress | Muslim Food Bank Phone: 1-866-824-2525 |
Contact the Resources Directly for Additional Information and Assistance
When planning a funeral in Manitoba, it’s crucial to reach out directly to the organizations and programs mentioned in this post. Each program may have specific eligibility criteria, application processes, and documentation requirements. By contacting them directly, you can ensure you receive accurate and up-to-date information about the assistance available.
- Service Canada: For federal programs like the CPP Death Benefit, contact Service Canada directly. Their website provides detailed information, and representatives can guide you through the process.
- Employment and Income Assistance (EIA): Contact Manitoba’s EIA office for information on provincial funeral benefits. They can help you determine eligibility and assist with the application process.
- Local Charitable and Religious Organizations: Many local charities and religious institutions in Manitoba offer funeral assistance. Contact them directly to learn about their programs and how they can support you during this difficult time.
By taking the time to connect with these resources, you can find the right assistance for your situation and relieve some of the financial stress associated with funeral planning.
Questions
If you have questions, or need further info it is best to contact the resources listed in this post directly.
