What if someone is homeless?

General Rule: Ontario Works can’t refuse to give someone income support just because they don’t have a permanent address. However, if they aren’t paying for housing, the amount of assistance they receive from the program will not include shelter supports.

If your client is homeless and in need of financial assistance to securing a place to live, they might still be able to get a loan or get certain rent support payments, including discretionary amounts from Ontario Works, for first and last month’s rent, without reducing the amount of money they already receive from the program. 

How You Can Help:

• Step 1: Make sure your client speaks with their caseworker first for more information about getting a loan or rent support payments.
• Step 2: Help your client organize any required documentation.