Closed
Source verified July 8, 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
- Persons with Disabilities
Next Steps
1
Determine your project
2
Validate your eligibility
Documents Needed
- Completed Application for Special Diet Allowance (Form 3111/3112).
- Consent to release relevant medical information.
- Supporting medical confirmation from an approved health care professional.
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 medically required special diet.
- Special diet expenses linked to approved medical conditions.
Ineligible Costs and Activities
- Products covered under the Ontario Drug Benefit Program.
- Special diet support already met by an institution or facility.
Eligible geographic areas
- Ontario
How to apply
- Step 1: Obtain the form
- Request an original Application for Special Diet Allowance form.
- Step 2: Complete medical section
- Have an approved health care professional complete and sign the form.
- Sign the consent to release relevant medical information.
- Step 3: Submit the application
- Send the completed original form to the local Ontario Works or ODSP office.
- Step 4: Await decision
- Wait for the approval or refusal notice.
- Follow review or appeal steps if needed.
Processing and Agreement
- Application is reviewed for completeness and eligibility.
- Approved applications receive a notice with the approved amount and review date, if applicable.
- Refused applications receive a notice with the reason and appeal rights.
- Ongoing eligibility is subject to review.
- Decisions may be internally reviewed and then appealed.
Additional information
- The allowance is part of income support budgetary requirements.
- A completed consent to release relevant medical information is required.
- Approved health care professionals may receive a $20 fee for completing the form.
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) by email at none 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