Ontario Works is a program that provides basic financial and employment assistance to people in need. The
County of Simcoe Ontario Works Department delivers this program to eligible Simcoe County residents.
Basic Financial Assistance
Applicants who qualify for Ontario Works Assistance can receive money to help cover the cost of basic needs (food, clothing, etc.) and shelter expenses. The amount of money they are eligible to receive depends on:
- Family size
- Age of dependents
- Income
- Assets
- Shelter expenses
Employment Assistance Activities
As a condition of initial and continued eligibility for assistance, all employable adults must participate in one or more employment assistance activities. Ontario Works employment assistance helps people to become and stay employed, and includes employment activities such as:
- Job search support services
- Employment information session
- Community participation (i.e. activities that allow people to contribute to the community and improve their employability)
- Employment placement and job retention services
- Supports for self-employment development
- Referral to basic education
- Young parenting program (Learning, Earning and Parenting, or LEAP)
- Literacy and job-specific skills training
- Screening for substance abuse and referral to assessment and treatment if necessary
The appropriate mix of employment assistance activities depends on the experience, skills, circumstances, and needs of individual applicants or participants and the realities of the local labour market. The amount of time a participant needs to engage in activities designed to help him or her increase employability and obtain sustainable employment will vary.
How to Apply
You can apply for social assistance online or by telephone.
- Visit the
Ontario Works section of the County of Simcoe website to learn how to apply for social assistance online.
- To apply by telephone contact the County of Simcoe Integrated Services Unit at (705) 722-3132 or if you live in the Beeton area (905) 729-4514 and follow the auto attendant prompts.
Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)
The Ontario Disability Support Program provides income support to eligible people with disabilities who are in financial need, as well as offering employment support to help those with disabilities who can and want to work. This program helps participants prepare for and find a job. ODSP is managed and delivered by the Ministry of Community and Social Services.
Income Support provides financial help for people with disabilities who are in need. It can help pay for living expenses, like food and housing.
Benefits that may be available
If you qualify for Income Support, you and your family may also qualify for other benefits, such as:
- Drug coverage
- Dental coverage
- Vision care
- Hearing aids
- Diabetic supplies
- Help with transportation costs to medical appointments
- Wheelchair/mobility device repairs and batteries
- Help to support your guide dog
- Help with work-related expenses
Working while receiving income support
Many people who receive Income Support can and want to work. Ontario Disability Support Program Employment Supports can help you get ready for a new job or a training program, and can help you keep your job if you are at risk of losing it. Depending on your situation, you can work and receive Income Support at the same time. If you work, ODSP may be able to help you with work-related costs, such as child care.
How to Apply
You can apply for ODSP online or by telephone.
| Barrie | (705) 737-1311
Toll Free: 1-800-461-7551
TDD/TTY: (705) 737-9601
Services available in French and English |
| Orillia | (705) 325-7408
Toll Free: 1-800-565-9871
TTY: (705) 325-3887
Services available in French and English |