Ontario Works

On this page: 

• My Benefits
• What is Ontario Works? 
• How can Ontario Works help me?
• How do I receive my money? 
• Emergency Assistance
• Ontario Works Benefits
• Children and Families

What is Ontario Works?

Ontario Works provides help to those in need residing in the City and County of Peterborough.

To be eligible for Ontario Works you need to:

• Live in Ontario;
• Need money right away for food and housing costs;
• Have assets and income under a certain level. 

Even if you think you might not be eligible, you are encouraged to call and talk to us. We are here to answer all your questions. 

How can Ontario Works help me?

If you are eligible, you'll receive a monthly payment for your basic needs (like food) and shelter costs (like rent). 

The amount of money you will get from Ontario Works will depend on a few things including:

• Family size;
• Other income you may be receiving;
• Your assets (property, investments, other money available to you); and
• The cost of your housing, heat, and hydro.

 You will also receive drug and dental benefits. There are other things that you may be eligible for; more information on those can be found further down the page.

We can also help you find child care, and avoid eviction or utility disconnection.

How do I receive my money?

Payments can be deposited directly into your bank account, loaded onto a reloadable payment card or mailed to you as a cheque. No matter how you receive your funds you will also be mailed these items:

1. A benefits eligibility card (if applicable);
2. An explanation of the payment

Ontario Works payments will always come out on the last business day of the month.

Emergency Assistance 

If you are in an emergency, you may be eligible for one-time emergency assistance. You can apply online for emergency assistance, visit our office at 178 Charlotte Street or call 705-748-8830. 

Ontario Works Benefits: 

Drug Benefits: 

You will have the cost of eligible prescription drugs covered while you are on Ontario Works.  You can show your Ontario Health card when you are picking up your prescription at the pharmacy.

Eyeglasses: 

If you or anyone in your family needs new glasses or their prescription changes, we can help with the cost of glasses.   

Adults are eligible for up $350 for lenses and frames. Children are eligible for the actual cost of the lenses and fees and up to $125 for the cost of frames. Your Case Manager will need a prescription and an eyeglass estimate.

Diabetic and Surgical Supplies: 

Supplies like test strips, lancets, and other diabetic and surgical supplies can be covered through Ontario Works. Ask your Case Manager how to apply for this.

Advanced Age Item for People Over 65: 

If you are 65 or older, you will receive an advanced age benefit added to your assistance.

Medical Transportation: 

Speak with your Case Manager to talk about financial assistance for frequent or out of town medical appointments. It is possible that all travel costs over $15 / month can be covered by Ontario Works. 

Special Diets: 

If you or a family member need extra money for special diet because of a medical condition, during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, Ontario Works can help. You can talk to your Case Manager about getting a Special Diet Application form. You can take this to your doctor or dietitian to be filled out.

Extended Employment Health Benefits: 

If you leave Ontario Works because you're working we may be able to extend your drug and dental benefits for up to 12 months after your file closes. This will give time for your benefits from work to start, or you can apply for the government of Ontario Trillium Drug program.

Please contact your Case Manager if you have any questions about mandatory benefits.

Children and Families

Dental Coverage for Children: 

Dental check-ups, and other dental services for your child are covered through Healthy Smiles Ontario.  Healthy Smiles is a government-funded dental program children and youth 17 years old and under. You can ask your Case Manager for more details.

Eyeglasses for Children: 

If your child needs eyeglasses, Ontario Works can help with the costs.  Up to $125 dollars is available for the frames and the total cost of the lenses will be covered.  You may be eligible for new lenses if your child's prescription changes.

Eye exams are covered once every twenty four (24) months. You can show your Ontario Health Card and a copy of your OW statement to your optometrist.

Children and Daycare: 

Speak with your Case Manager about options for assistance with childcare.

Please note the items, services and amounts listed are subject to change based on available funding. Any benefit that is issued in a month may be considered an overpayment if it is determined that you are not eligible for basic financial assistance in that month.