If you're a Niagara resident receiving Ontario Works or Ontario Disability benefits, financial help is available for essential health and housing stability items and services.
Low-income families who are not on Ontario Works or Ontario Disability Support Program may apply for help with last month's rent and rental or mortgage arrears. Eligibility for benefits is based on income and family size.
The program includes Discretionary Health Benefits and Housing Stability Benefits.
Discretionary Health Benefits support necessary health and safety needs and must:
Health-related services and items include:
The Assistive Devices Program must be used first for all eligible items. If you're receiving Ontario Works, you may qualify to receive the remaining balance.
For more information, contact the Assistive Devices Program at 1-800-268-6021.
The Discretionary Benefits Portal is a fast, easy and secure way to apply online for discretionary and housing stability benefits. You can apply anytime, anywhere and on any device.
To register, you must have a valid email address. Once registered, you can:
If you can't apply online, there's other ways you can apply.
If you're receiving Ontario Works benefits, contact your casemanager directly to request Housing Stability Benefits.
Learn how the portal works.
Housing Stability Benefits help to cover overdue rent payments, moving or storage costs, or last month's rent.
Individuals or couples are eligible for a maximum of $900 per calendar year. Families with children are eligible for a maximum of $1600 per calendar year.
Requests for Housing Stability Benefits must be:
This benefit may be considered if you're homeless, in an emergency shelter, or moving due to: