Closed
Source verified July 6, 2026
Ontario Works or emergency assistance
Financial support for basic needs and employment
Latest source updateLast Update: June 14, 2026Latest change: The Ontario Works page now shows a more detailed application flow, updated program overview, and current support information, including the $733 monthly example for a single person.View change
Latest source update
Last Update: June 14, 2026
Latest change: The Ontario Works page now shows a more detailed application flow, updated program overview, and current support information, including the $733 monthly example for a single person.
Ontario Works page updated with new application details
The page now presents a fuller Ontario Works overview with clearer scope and funding details, including that a single person may receive up to $733 a month for basic needs and shelter, and that the Canada Disability Benefit does not affect Ontario Works eligibility or payment amount. The application section was expanded from a simple apply/contact flow to step-by-step instructions: online applications take 20 to 30 minutes, applicants may be asked for supporting documents, and decisions are expected within four business days once all information is received. The page also now shows a 30-day request period for a financial eligibility review and updated support options through MyBenefits and the Social Assistance Support Line at 1-888-999-1142 / TTY 1-800-387-5559.
Funding available
$ 733
Deadline
Open continuously
Location
Ontario, Canada
Overview
Ontario Works provides financial assistance for people in financial need in Ontario. It helps cover basic needs, housing, health benefits, and emergency assistance, and some recipients must participate in employment services.
/100
Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Develop a new program or service
- Increase social or community impact
- Enhance an existing program
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 733 $
Funds Providers
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Ontario
Legal structures
- Public or Parapublic institution
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- Indigenous Peoples
- Persons with Disabilities
- Newcomers to Canada
- Canadians
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Activities funded
- Employment services with Employment Ontario
- Temporary financial support in a crisis or emergency
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Individuals in financial need
- People who need short term financial support for food and housing
- People in Ontario under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel may apply for temporary financial support through emergency assistance
Who is not eligible
- People who live in a First Nations community, are under the age of 18, or do not have a Social Insurance Number must contact their local Ontario Works office to apply
- People not in Ontario under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel and who need support for longer than 48 days should apply for Ontario Works
Eligible expenses
- Basic needs and shelter
- Health benefits
- Medical transportation and parking expenses
Eligible geographic areas
- Ontario
- York Region
- Huron County
- Hastings County
- Renfrew County
- City of Kawartha Lakes
- County of Haliburton
Selection criteria
- Financial need and household situation
- Income, assets and shelter costs
- Participation in employment activities
How to apply
- Apply online through the Ontario Social Assistance portal.
- Call 1-888-999-1142 or toll-free/TTY at 1-800-387-5559, Monday to Friday, 8:30am-5:00pm.
- Contact the local office by phone or in person.
Processing and Agreement
- If you recently received Ontario Works, you may be able to re-apply using a simpler process.
- As part of the Ontario Works program, you are required to participate in employment services with Employment Ontario.
- More information is provided as you complete the online application.
Additional information
- Monthly benefits are available.
- Applicants may be contacted to provide more information or documents.
- MyBenefits can be used to manage the case online.
- An internal review may be requested if a decision is disputed.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Ontario Works or emergency assistance Program
What is the Ontario Works or emergency assistance?
Ontario Works provides financial assistance for people in financial need in Ontario. It helps cover basic needs, housing, health benefits, and emergency assistance, and some recipients must participate in employment services.
How much funding can be received?
Ontario Works or emergency assistance Funds up to $733 of admissible expenses.
Who is eligible for the Ontario Works or emergency assistance program?
To be eligible for the Ontario Works or emergency assistance program, you must:
Applicants must be in financial need
Applicants must be at least 16 years old
Emergency assistance is for people in a crisis or emergency
What expenses are eligible under Ontario Works or emergency assistance?
Employment services with Employment Ontario
Temporary financial support in a crisis or emergency
Who can I contact for more information about the Ontario Works or emergency assistance?
You can contact Region of Peel by email at none or by phone at 1-888-999-1142.
Where is the Ontario Works or emergency assistance available?
The Ontario Works or emergency assistance program is available the province of Ontario.
Is the Ontario Works or emergency assistance a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Ontario Works or emergency assistance is a Grant and Funding