Which benefit is specifically intended for new mothers in Canada?

Maternity benefits under Employment Insurance are specifically designed to support new mothers in Canada. These benefits provide financial assistance during the period when a mother is on leave from work due to childbirth. The program recognizes the time and care required for recovery and for bonding with a newborn, allowing mothers to take a designated leave while receiving a portion of their salary through these benefits.

This targeted support acknowledges the unique needs of mothers following childbirth, distinguishing it from options like parental leave benefits, which apply to both parents and are designed for the overall caregiving responsibilities associated with a new child. Paternity leave benefits cater specifically to fathers, and family health benefits encompass a broader range of services that do not focus solely on maternity needs. Thus, the specific aim of maternity benefits under Employment Insurance is to address the circumstances and needs that new mothers face.