There are two types of Social Assistance in Ontario: Ontario Works (OW) and Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP).
Ontario Works (OW) is often referred to as “welfare” and is for people who have no or very limited income or assets. The Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) is for people with disabilities who have no or limited income, and for the people in their benefit unit. Both ODSP and OW are paid once a month.
OW and ODSP provide money and other benefits, including prescription drug coverage, some dental care, some medical expenses, special diet allowances, employment supports, etc.
For more information about ODSP, please see our Ontario Disability Support Program section.
Here is a link to ODSP and OW social assistance information on the Government of Ontario website: www.mcss.gov.on.ca/en/mcss/programs/social/index.aspx
Community Legal Education Ontario (CLEO) has publications about social assistance in Ontario available on the CLEO website and in print: www.mcss.gov.on.ca/en/mcss/programs/social/index.aspx
Special Diet Allowance Changes in 2011
Please see our Ontario Disability Support Program section for information about the Special Diet Allowance.
Getting legal help
The law is complicated, so you should get legal advice about your situation. Contact us for legal advice if you are living with HIV or you can contact your local community legal clinic (www.legalaid.on.ca/en/contact/contact.asp?type=cl)