Employment Supports

Transportation

Transportation funds may be provided if you have participation requirements or if you are voluntarily involved in employment programs.  This money will be issued directly to you.

  • Bus Pass - You will have to buy your monthly bus pass at locations throughout the City.
  • Own Vehicle - You will receive the same amount that a bus pass would cost in order to buy gas for your vehicle.  Your caseworker will need a copy of your vehicle ownership.

Childcare

When you are participating in Ontario Works programs, you are eligible to receive childcare.

Licenced Day Care

  • full and part-time childcare is available
  • hours and age of children vary from centre to centre
  • safe and stimulating
  • quality childcare
  • Regulated by the Day Nurseries Act.

Private Home Day Care

  • private home-based
  • no more than 5 children in one home
  • ages 6 weeks to 12 years
  • regulated home visits to ensure government standards are met and kept at all times
  • police check is completed on provider
  • Licensed under the Day Nurseries Act

Unlicensed or Informal Day Care

Choose a relative, friend, neighbour or a private caregiver.

  • possible subsidy available
  • maximum 5 children
  • private agreement between you and the caregiver
  • No license required - unregulated

Clothing Needs

If you need clothing for school or a job, contact your caseworker

  • each request will be looked at on an individual basis
  • make sure you are asking for a reasonable amount of money for clothing
  • make sure your list is specific and provide a price for each item<

You will need to provide receipts for the items you have requested once they have been purchased.

Employment Start-up Costs (Form )

When you are successful in finding employment while participating in the Ontario Works Program and need specific items in order to begin your employment (a uniform, work boots, etc.) you can request the Employment Start Up Benefit.  Forms are available in the Ontario Works lobby area.

  • maximum amount is $253.00
  • you can only receive this once in a 12 month period
  • you will need to submit receipts for the items requested once you have bought them

Other Benefits (some forms available on line)

Community Start-Up & Maintenance Benefit (Form )

If you are forced to move for health or safety issues, or have been discharged from an institution, you may be entitled to a community start-up & maintenance benefit.

In order to be considered for this benefit, you must meet one of the following criteria:

  • victim of family violence
  • eviction
  • uninhabitable premises
  • move to more affordable housing
  • relocating to start a job
  • discharge from an institution, such as a hospital, hostel, transition home or correctional facility

Community Start-Up & Maintenance Benefit may only be issued once every 24 months. Maximum amount is $799 for singles or couples with no children, or $1500 for families.

Special Diets (Form )

You may be eligible for a special allowance if you are pregnant, diabetic, or require another type of special diet.  A form must be completed by a health practitioner.<

Direct Bank Deposit

Your money will be deposited into your bank account on the 1st of each month.  Complete the direct bank deposit form/card available from reception or your caseworker.  You can submit a 'void' cheque, or provide your branch, institution and account number to your caseworker.  Your bank can give you your account information.

Pay-Direct to Landlord (Form )

You can have your rent paid directly to your landlord.  You need to complete a form for authorization.