COVID-19 Emergency Benefit for OW and ODSP Recipients

COVID-19 Emergency Benefit for People Receiving Social Assistance

The COVID-19 Emergency Benefit was originally introduced as a one-time benefit in April 2020, and has now been extended for each month, up until and including, July 2020.

This COVID-19 Emergency Benefit is available for people receiving assistance from Ontario Works (OW) or Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) who may have additional costs related to pandemic. This support will help cover some additional pressures, including those related to emergency needs, cleaning and personal protective supplies, non-medical transportation, or additional food expenses. The amount is $100 for a single person and $200 for a family.*

Updated information about this benefit and Toronto Employment and Social Services is also available on the City's website, Click here to visit the City of Toronto's Assistance Through Ontario Works page.

 As part of the City’s COVID-19 response, all Toronto Employment & Social Services offices are providing financial benefits by phone. Clients can call the main line of their nearest office to speak with a representative. The Metro Hall, Scarborough Village and York Humber locations continue to remain open for in-person service by appointment only. Click here for information about Toronto Employment & Social Service locations. Applications for Ontario Works assistance continue online, click here for the Government of Ontario's website or by calling 416-338-8888. For more information, please review the fact sheet below.