Nobody plans to need social assistance. But financial emergencies happen, a job falls through, a health crisis hits, family circumstances change. Ontario Works (OW) is the provincial safety net designed for exactly these situations, and if you're eligible, using it is not something to be ashamed of.
What Is Ontario Works?
Ontario Works is a provincial program that provides:
- Financial assistance: Monthly payments to help with basic living costs
- Employment assistance: Help finding work, resume support, job training
- Other supports: Drug benefits, dental coverage (basic), and referrals to community services
It's temporary support designed to help you stabilize and move toward employment, not a long-term income solution.
How Much Does Ontario Works Pay?
Payment amounts depend on family size and housing costs. In 2025, approximate monthly maximums:
- Single person: ~$733/month
- Single parent, one child: ~$1,150/month
- Couple, two children: ~$1,400/month
These amounts are modest. They're intended as a bridge, not a living wage. Most recipients supplement with food banks and community resources.
Who Is Eligible?
You must:
- Be an Ontario resident
- Be in financial need (income and assets below thresholds)
- Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, protected person (refugee), or certain permit holders
Important for newcomers: Refugee claimants (asylum seekers) with a valid refugee protection claim typically qualify for Ontario Works. However, sponsored immigrants: those whose sponsor signed an undertaking to support them, are generally not eligible for Ontario Works during the sponsorship period (typically 3 years for spouses, up to 10 years for parents/grandparents). If your sponsor is unable to support you, special circumstances may apply.
How to Apply in Ottawa
Apply online at ontario.ca/ontarioworks or in person at an Ontario Works office. In Ottawa:
- Central Ottawa: 100 Constellation Drive or 2197 Riverside Drive
- East Ottawa: Call 613-580-2626 for your local office
Bring photo ID, proof of immigration status, proof of income and assets, and rental agreement or address proof.
What About Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)?
If you have a substantial physical or mental health disability, you may qualify for ODSP, which pays more than Ontario Works and provides additional health benefits. Apply through Ontario Works if you think you qualify. They will help you with the transition.
Using Ontario Works Without Shame
Social assistance exists because the transition to a new country is hard. Unexpected job loss, health issues, or sponsorship breakdown can create genuine financial crises. Using Ontario Works while you stabilize, and actively working toward employment, is exactly what it's designed for.
Resources in Ottawa
- Ottawa Food Bank (ottawafoodbank.ca): Emergency food hampers while waiting for OW
- OCISO (ociso.org): Settlement help and emergency assistance referrals
- Ottawa Community Immigrant Services (accueilottawa.ca): French-language settlement support
- Refugee Centre Ottawa: Specialized support for refugees and claimants
If Ontario Works isn't enough to cover your rent, you may also be eligible for the Ontario Works housing supplement or be added to the Ottawa Community Housing waitlist.
Transitioning Off OW
Ontario Works helps with job search costs, childcare, and training, take advantage of everything offered. The goal is employment and financial independence, and OW workers are there to support that transition.
