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Source verified August 12, 2026
Special Diet Allowance
Support for medically required special diets
Latest source updateLast Update: May 3, 2026Latest change: The Special Diet Allowance page was substantially revised, with updated program scope, eligibility, application steps, and review language.View change
Latest source update
Last Update: May 3, 2026
Latest change: The Special Diet Allowance page was substantially revised, with updated program scope, eligibility, application steps, and review language.
Special Diet Allowance policy updated
The Special Diet Allowance content was substantially rewritten and now presents an ODSP-based policy structure instead of the earlier Ontario Works framing. It updates who may apply, how applications are issued and submitted, how incomplete forms are handled, and how review dates and approvals are processed. The page also revises the policy summary and legislative references, while keeping the $250 monthly maximum and the $20 professional fee in substance. Several wording and process details were clarified, including template letters, review timing, and payment instructions.
Funding available
$ 250
Deadline
Open continuously
Location
Ontario, Canada
Overview
The program provides special diet allowance support under Ontario Works and ODSP income support. It helps cover medically required special diet costs, with payments based on the Special Diets Schedule and a maximum of $250 per month per benefit unit member.
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Opportunity Score
Moderate potential, but conditions must align.
At a glance
Funding available
Financing goals
- Increase social or community impact
- Enhance an existing program
- Raise awareness or mobilize a population
Eligible Funding
- Maximum amount : 250 $
Eligible candidates
Eligible Industries
- All industries
Location
- Ontario
Legal structures
- All legal structures
Annual revenue
- All revenue ranges
Organisation size
- All organization sizes
Audience
- All groups
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Documents Needed
- Completed Application for Special Diet Allowance (Form 3111/3112).
- Consent to the release of relevant medical information.
Official resources
Eligibility
Who is eligible?
- Ontario Works applicants and recipients.
- ODSP recipients.
- Members of the benefit unit who need a special diet.
Who is not eligible
- People living in institutions where their needs are met by the institution.
- Ontario Works emergency hostel service users served by First Nations delivery agents.
- Residents of long-term care homes.
Eligible expenses
- Costs of a special diet due to an approved medical condition.
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Products covered under the Ontario Drug Benefit Program (ODB).
Eligible geographic areas
- Ontario
How to apply
- Request an original Application for Special Diet Allowance form.
- Have an approved health care professional complete the application form and sign the consent to the release of relevant medical information.
- Submit the completed original form to the local office.
Processing and Agreement
- Approved applicants receive a letter notifying them that the allowance has been approved, the amount approved, and the review date if applicable.
- Applicants whose requests are not approved receive a letter with the reason and the right to request an internal review.
- Ongoing eligibility for a Special Diet Allowance is subject to review.
- Prior to an appeal to the Social Benefits Tribunal, an internal review must be requested.
Contacts
Frequently Asked Questions about the Special Diet Allowance Program
What is the Special Diet Allowance?
The program provides special diet allowance support under Ontario Works and ODSP income support. It helps cover medically required special diet costs, with payments based on the Special Diets Schedule and a maximum of $250 per month per benefit unit member.
How much funding can be received?
Special Diet Allowance Funds up to $250 of admissible expenses.
Who is eligible for the Special Diet Allowance program?
To be eligible for the Special Diet Allowance program, you must:
Medical condition confirmed
Completed application form
Submitted to local office
Who can I contact for more information about the Special Diet Allowance?
You can contact Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) or by phone at 416-325-5666.
Where is the Special Diet Allowance available?
The Special Diet Allowance program is available the province of Ontario.
Is the Special Diet Allowance a grant, loan, or tax credit?
Special Diet Allowance is a Grant and Funding
Who are the financial supporters of the Special Diet Allowance?
Special Diet Allowance is funded by Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS), Township of Leeds and the Thousand Islands