The Ministry of Community and Social Services in the Canadian province of Ontario is responsible for social services such as welfare, and disability insurance and community service programs around issues such as homelessness, domestic violence, spousal support, adoption, and assisted housing for people with disabilities.
The current Minister of Community and Social Services in the Executive Council of Ontario (or provincial cabinet) is the Honourable Madeleine Meilleur.
Previously known as "General Welfare," where there were recipients is now called Ontario Works where there are participants. Ontario Works program better respects peoples dignity, builds self-esteem and promotes independence. This program was created by the Ontario Works Act, 1997. Each of its participants is encouraged to be involved more in the community and find suitable employment. Ontario Works is a program that provides income and employment assistance for people who are in financial need by developing an Action Plan in certain agencies. In other agencies participants are referred to other resources. This Plan identifies and addresses an individual's barriers to employment. It is a benefit for persons 18 years and older and by exception for peoples 16 to 18 and also single parents regardless of age. In order to qualify for Ontario Works, an applicant must be a resident of the province of Ontario, in immediate need of financial help, not have excessive assets and be a willing participant in employment assistance programs and activities. There are exceptions to participating in employment related activities if you are unable to work due to medical reasons or if you are the primary caregiver for a relative. The amount of money you may receive from Ontario Works will depend on your; family size, income, assets, and housing costs. If you are eligible for Ontario Works then you may be able to receive other benefits from them such as; medical and dental coverage, eyeglasses, moving or eviction costs and employment-related costs. Ontario Works also assists applicants for the Ontario Disability Supports Program (ODSP) by providing immediate financial assistance, application for ODSP and advocacy in the appeal process. Applications for Social Assistance in Ontario can now be completed online at; https://saapply.mcss.gov.on.ca/CitizenPortal/cw/PlayerPage.do. Eligibility can also be determined at the same link without directly applying.