Ontario Works
What’s on this page?
Overview
Explore the essentials of Ontario Works, a comprehensive program providing financial and person-centred support to individuals and families in need.
Am I Eligible?
To be eligible for Ontario Works, you must:
- Live in Ontario;
- Be in financial need (i.e. your household doesn’t have the financial resources to meet basic living expenses), and;
- Be willing to make reasonable efforts to participate in employment activities and undertake efforts towards wellness and life stabilization.
Apply for Ontario Works
Ontario Works is a program of the Ministry of Community & Social Services. The first step is to apply directly to the Intake and Benefits Administration Unit/Service Ontario either by phone –1-888-999-1142; or online at http://www.ontario.ca/socialassistance
You can also contact one of PELASS’ local offices if you would like some assistance in applying. PELASS County Locations
After applying, you will then have an in-person follow up appointment with a caseworker in one of our local PELASS social services offices.
I am Currently on Ontario Works
If you’re receiving financial assistance, you’ll get help accessing needed person-centred supports to help you and your family and to help overcome any barriers in moving towards wellness, financial stability and employability. Once you are ready, you and your caseworker can discuss a referral to a partner Employment Ontario office to take part in employment-focused activities and supports in getting a job.
Financial Assistance Help for You and Your Family
Financial assistance helps you look after yourself and your family. You’ll receive support to maintain your household, receive person-centered supports and benefits, and assist with food and personal items and rent or residency costs such as heat and hydro.
Here’s what financial assistance covers:
- Monthly financial assistance to help with the costs of basic needs, like food, clothing and shelter.
- Coverage may include specialized needs depending on your circumstances, including such items as prescription medication emergency dental coverage for adults, prescription eyeglasses for children as required, and other supports.
- Other special benefits may include medical expenses, surgical and diabetic supplies, and funds to establish a permanent residence.
Employment Assistance
Ontario Works’ efforts centre around supporting individuals to overcome barriers that are preventing them from obtaining sustainable employment.
People and groups achieve their potential in different ways and at different rates. We build on the experience and assets that individuals or groups bring with them.
Ontario Works staff partner with staff from Local Employment Ontario offices to support a person in areas of employability, such as:
- Workshops on resume writing
- Job counselling
- Job-specific training
- Access to basic education
- Financial supports to overcome temporary barriers to employment
Our Resource Centres are also available to assist Ontario Works participants with their employment and person-centred needs. The Centres supply a variety of services and tools in a friendly “one-stop-shop” location. Here are some of the services offered:
- Computers and software for typing resumes and cover letters
- Online job banks
- Fax machine
- Photocopier
- Internet access
- Information on training, education and community resources
- Industrial directories
- Telephone (for employer-related calls)
FAQs
Do I have to look for work right away in order to receive financial supports from Ontario Works?
Not necessarily. While the eventual goal for anyone on Ontario Works is eventual self-sustaining and employment, we understand that every person is at a unique personal situation in their life and everyone is at a different place when it comes to being able to look for work or maintain a job. For some individuals, this may mean an immediate referral to our partners at Employment Ontario as they are ready to commence work now. However, for others, this may mean the focus with your PELASS caseworker is to address and work through some personal circumstances first while receiving benefits before being ready or able to look for employment. Your caseworker can decide with you which supports are needed.
Do I have to apply online?
Anyone seeking to apply for Ontario Works benefits is encouraged to apply with the Province online or by phone, as these applications can determine if you are eligible immediately and you can apply online 24 hours a day from your own residence. However, this may not be possible for everyone, so individuals can always call us directly at PELASS to discuss applying for Ontario Works at 613-354-0957.
If I only need help on a one-time basis to perhaps help with a high heat bill or rental arrears, can your office still help?
PELASS caseworkers may be able to offer supports on a one-time basis to help you meet an extraordinary one-time need related to your residency or health. There are some benefits such as Emergency Assistance that you may be able to access or a caseworker will know who to refer you to if other agencies in the community can help.
What do I need to apply?
Anyone can apply initially without any documents to get the process started; however, to find out if you are eligible for supports, you will need to have:
- Your identification for you and all members of your household.
- Proof of how much you pay for rent or for your home, as well as proof of other bills you may have
- Proof of your income such as pay stubs and bank account information
- If you are new to Canada, you will need to provide proof of your status in Canada.
What happens once I am eligible and qualify for Ontario Works benefits?
Once you qualify for Ontario Works benefits, you will work with a PELASS caseworker who will meet with you regularly to discuss your goals and other things affecting you and your household. It will be important to keep your caseworker advised of any changes in your circumstances. Each month, as long as you are still entitled to benefits, you will receive a monthly Ontario Works payment deposited directly into your bank account. You will also meet with your caseworker in person to discuss next steps and goals toward employability or addressing other barriers you are facing. This is known as “action-planning”.
Did You Know?
Once you apply for Ontario Works benefits, you can sign up for the “My Benefits “App. The My Benefits App is a software app that you can use on your phone or laptop or tablet that allows you to view the status of your Ontario Works file, receive letters and messages from your caseworker in real-time, check the status of your Ontario Works payments, and report any changes or send pictures of necessary documents or pay stubs directly to your caseworker. While accessing the My Benefits is not mandatory, it is a useful tool. You can talk to a PELASS caseworker if you want to find out more or need help registering.
Contact Information
Prince Edward-Lennox & Addington Social Services
95 Advance Avenue Napanee, Ontario, K7R 3Y5
229 Main Street Picton, Ontario, K0K 2T0
20 Manitou Crescent West Amherstview, Ontario, K7N 1B4
12497A Hwy 41 Northbrook, Ontario, K0H 2G0
Phone: 613-354-0957
Toll Free: 1-866-354-0957
Email
