Subsidized Funeral and Burial Services
Niagara Region provides financial assistance for funeral, burial and cremation services at a funeral home or place of worship.
Eligibility
- Niagara residents receiving Ontario Works or Ontario Disability Support Program benefits
- Low income residents of Niagara may also be eligible for services
An application to determine eligibility must be processed by Niagara Region before funeral arrangements are finalized.
Services Provided
A basic funeral includes:
- Two hour visitation and service
- Direct burial
- Cremation
- Burial services
- Purchase of a burial plot if required
Cremation or burial, including plot, and interment are subsidized separately and provided by local cemeteries under this program.
Costs
Niagara Region maintains a rate schedule that supports a basic yet professional and dignified service.
Any additional services and supplies must be purchased directly from the funeral provider and are done so outside of the agreement with Niagara Region Community Services.
Apply for Assistance
To apply for financial assistance, contact Niagara Region Community Services, Discretionary Benefits Program, at 905-641-9960 x 6026. Applicants will be contacted to book an appointment with a staff member within one business day of your request.
If the death occurs on the weekend, holiday, or if there are time sensitive cultural / religious requirements, contact our office immediately and leave a message to ensure your appointment is prioritized during regular business hours.
Applications for financial assistance must be approved by Niagara Region prior to the finalization of funeral arrangements.
What will I need for my application?
The following documents of the deceased person are required in order to complete the application for funeral, burial and cremation services:
- One piece of identification of the deceased and applicant such as:
- Birth certificate, passport, permanent resident card, citizenship documents
- Driver's licence
- Social insurance number
- Health card
- Will
- Life insurance policy
- Pre-paid funeral
- Verification of current bank account(s)
- Income verification
- Verification of assets, including RRSPs, bonds, stocks, investments, etc.
For more information, call 905-641-9960 ext. 6026.