What 'income supports' are available for pregnant women/young single & broke parents/etc in Canada?

No, no -- I'm not asking for my sake; I'm just curious given all the programs like WIC that Americans have.

Apart from the tax benefits, are there any direct supports? I'm aware of some increased welfare/disability benefits for nutrition for pregnant and nursing mothers, but what're the equivalent (if any) of food stamps and other supports for low-income Canadians?

I had a single mother friend with a 2-year-old several years ago. She had no job, but wisely decided to take some college courses.

The Canadian/Provincial government paid for the school and the daycare. Besides that, the gov't paid for a lovely 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom townhouse and a bit of spending money on the side.

From what I saw, there is a basic welfare amount, but there is no ceiling. If a single mother can show/prove that more money is needed, the money is delivered. Extra money must be requested each time. The base welfare doesn't go up.

I'm not stating an opinion, just an observation: single mothers can live quite well in Canada. I think there is also a big connection between the mother's attitude at the welfare office and the help that she receives.

The woman finished her courses and now has a good job, married, and the child is as integrated into society as well as any other kid.

your friend should call her social services office and they can tell her what she would be in titled to and how she can go about getting it like what she needs to do or have to qualify. Your a good friend.