TORONTO, September 23, 2026 – Several community service locations in Toronto held Ontario Works information sessions on September 23, introducing financial assistance, social supports and employment services to residents facing financial difficulty.
The sessions were held at North York Central Library, Malvern Intake & Access Centre and Scarborough Village Intake & Access Centre. All three sessions ran from 10 a.m. to noon. The events were provided by Toronto Employment and Social Services, with staff on site explaining Ontario Works benefits, eligibility requirements, and referrals to employment and community services.
Ontario Works is Ontario’s social assistance program for residents in financial need. Eligible individuals and families may receive basic needs and housing support, and some applicants may also qualify for health-related benefits.
Under current rates, an eligible single person may receive up to $733 per month for basic needs and shelter. The amount for families is calculated based on factors including family size, income, assets and housing costs.
Applicants generally must be at least 16 years old, live in Ontario, and meet financial need requirements. During the review process, household income, assets, living expenses, family size and housing costs are considered.
The current asset limit is $10,000 for a single person and $15,000 for a couple, with an additional $500 allowed for each dependant. A primary residence, a main vehicle and some registered savings plans may be exempt under the rules.
In addition to financial assistance, Ontario Works also provides employment support. Most recipients are required to work with staff to create an individual plan and take part in job search, skills training or other approved employment activities. The information sessions also introduce community resources and related service referrals.
Residents who missed the September 23 sessions can still attend upcoming events. The Toronto Employment Services Portal shows that Malvern Intake & Access Centre will hold another Ontario Works information session on September 24, while Beaches Intake & Access Centre has a session scheduled for September 30.
Residents can check the Toronto Employment Services Portal for specific times, locations and registration details.
Ontario Works also accepts online applications. Applicants usually need to prepare identification for household members, banking information, and related documents such as SIN, OHIP card, immigration documents and tax filing information. Residents who are unsure about eligibility can first check official channels to confirm what documents and application requirements apply to their situation.
（LJI by Yuanyuan）
