Searching for Housing Expense Assistance

Provides affordable housing for rental and homeowner clients through geared-to income rent and mortgage subsidies. Infinity Property Services provides a full range of property management services including:

• Building inspection
• Repair, maintenance and capital planning
• Purchasing and tendering
• Contract administration
• Tenant placement, counselling and tenant relations

The Urgent Needs Fund is on hold until April 2023. DO NOT TAKE ANY INTAKES AT ALL

A discretionary fund available to provide individuals in Simcoe County who are experiencing or are at-risk of poverty, emergency financial assistance with modest one-time grants to address basic needs including:

• food security (e.g. grocery gift card, baby food, etc.);
• transportation (e.g. gas gift card, taxi voucher, bus ticket, medical transportation, etc.);
• basic needs (e.g. clothing, cleaning supplies, personal hygiene supplies, footwear, etc.) including delivery of items;
• social integration (e.g. access to a cellphone or phone cards, computer rentals, etc.);
• health and wellness (e.g. medication, emergency dental, eyeglasses, etc.);
• housing start-up costs (e.g. furniture, kitchen supplies, bedding, mattress, etc.);
• child care;
• family supports (e.g. parenting courses, educational resources and supplies for children/youth);
• personal Identification (e.g. birth certificate, health card, SIN, driver's license);
• student assistance for elementary and high school students (books, supplies, registration / application fees); and/or,
• mental health supports;
• income tax filing costs;
• utilities

Requests for assistance will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Financial assistance for home repairs of low to moderate households including home repair deficiencies, accessibility upgrades for persons with disabilities. Assistance in form of forgivable loan up to $15,000 for essential home repairs, including up to $5,000 in the form of a grant for accessibility modifications. Loans for home repairs and accessibility modifications are forgiven over a 10 year period.

Eligible repairs could include the following:

• building exterior including roofs, walls or foundations
• doors and windows
• plumbing, septic systems
• fire safety
• electrical systems
• heating systems
• mould remediation

Accessibility modifications include but are not limited to:

• ramps
• handrails
• chair and bath lifts
• height adjustments to countertops
• cues for doorbells/fire alarms
• bathroom renovations

Soft costs deemed reasonable by the County of Simcoe and that are agreed to by the Province of Ontario may be eligible expenses. Examples include, but are not limited to:

• Labour and applicable taxes
• Building permits
• Certificates
• Appraisal, consultant, inspection fees
• Drawings and specifications
• Legal fees up to a maximum of $1,000

Provides down payment assistance to moderate income individuals and families giving them the opportunity to move from rental accommodation to homeownership

• Homeownership component of the Investment in Affordable Housing program provides up to 10% in down-payment assistance to households to aid them in purchasing a new house at or below a set maximum price (changes yearly)
• loan is forgivable if the applicant keeps the home for 20 years
• if the applicant sells the house, they have to repay the principal downpayment assistance plus 10% capital gains
• this money will then go back into a revolving fund the county will maintain so it can be rolled back out again

A percentage of available funding will be designated for applicants currently living in Social Housing or those who self-identify as Aboriginal households

Assists with first/last month's rent and moving/storing expenses. Will assist with rental and mortgage arrears when the individuals has been issued a N-4 and is facing eviction. Will also assist with utility arrears including hydro, gas, oil, wood and water - must have a disconnection notice.

A combined maximum of $1,200 for eligible singles, $1,500 for couples and $2,000 for eligible families in a 24-month period may be available.
Requests for financial assistance will be considered based on individual circumstance and available funding.

For individuals in receipt of Ontario Works or Ontario Disability Support, applications can be completed over the phone through their local Ontario Works office.

For individuals not on Social Assistance that require help, applications can also be completed over the phone.

Program funds projects that incorporate accessible, adaptable and inclusive designs, which allow seniors to continue to live independently in their communities for as long as possible.

Grant amounts will be distributed based on the number of applications received and ability to meet funding criteria.

COVID19 -- Closed for public access until further notice. Applicants can apply for social assistance by calling Access York at 1-877-464-9675 or online at york.ca.

Assesses eligibility for Ontario Works financial and employment assistance, including verification interview

York Region COVID-19 Temporary Arrears Benefit

• One-time rental/mortgage or utility arrears support to eligible Ontario Works (OW) or Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) households in York Region who, as a result of COVID-19 have not been able to pay rent or utility expenses (are currently in arrears) and are at risk of eviction
• offers light case management
• benefit is available until December 31, 2021 or until funding is exhaused, whichever is first
• call Access York to apply

COVID19 -- Closed for public access until further notice. Applicants can apply for social assistance by calling Access York at 1-877-464-9675 or online at york.ca.

Assesses eligibility for Ontario Works financial and employment assistance, including verification interview

York Region COVID-19 Temporary Arrears Benefit

• One-time rental/mortgage or utility arrears support to eligible Ontario Works (OW) or Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) households in York Region who, as a result of COVID-19 have not been able to pay rent or utility expenses (are currently in arrears) and are at risk of eviction
• offers light case management
• benefit is available until December 31, 2021 or until funding is exhaused, whichever is first
• call Access York to apply

COVID19 - Closed for public access until further notice.

Short-term counselling services to assist clients in becoming stable and better able to engage in programs, increase their contribution to the economy and/or become socially engaged in their communities

COVID19 - Closed for public access until further notice.

Provides a fee subsidy and case management support to York Region residents who require supervision and support with their daily living activities in one of 22 privately owned Housing with Supports Homes:

Locations:

Botsford Place 905-895-3983
445 Botsford Street, Newmarket, Ontario, L3Y 1T2

Brigitta's Residential Home
128 Arden Avenue, Newmarket, Ontario, L3Y 4H6

Brookside Lodge 905-853-7342
542 Wellington St, Newmarket, Ontario, L3Y 2C6

Browns Residential Home
399 Queen Street, Newmarket, Ontario, L3Y 2G9

Cedar Lane Residential Home
19704 Holland Landing Road, East Gwillimbury, Ontario, L9N 1M8

Cobblestone Lodge Retirement Home 905- 841-9390
15029 Yonge St, Aurora, Ontario, L4G 1M3

Country Living Retirement Home 905-473-2731
5091 Mount Albert Rd, East Gwillimbury, Ontario, L0G 1M0

Fairpark Manor
85 Fairpark Lane, Georgina, Ontario, L0E 1R0

Halsey Lodge
875 Lake Dr E, Georgina, Ontario, L4P 3E9

Heritage Lodge York Region 905-853-1587
508 College St, Newmarket, Ontario, L3Y 1C6

Hillcrest Residential Home 905-895-3231
208 Prospect St, Newmarket, Ontario, L3Y 3T6

Hilltop Manor Retirement Residence 905-476-4712
233 Glenwoods Ave, Keswick, Ontario, L4P 2W7

MacDonald House Seniors Inc. 905-715-7785
688 Mount Albert Road, East Gwillimbury, Ontario, L9N 1P1

Parkview Manor 905-895-9064
683 Gorham St, Newmarket, Ontario, L3Y 1L5

Pipe and Slipper Home 905-476-3601
2926 Old Homestead Rd, Keswick, Ontario, L4P 3E9

Prospect House 905-868-8057
137 Prospect St, Newmarket, Ontario, L3Y 3T3

Queenview Residential Home
2729 Doane Rd, Queensville, Ontario, L0G 1R0

Sunnybrook Residential Care Home
825 Lake Dr E, Georgina, Ontario, L4P 3E9

The Newmarket Residence 905-895-9353
3248 Davis Drive, East Gwillimbury, Ontario, L9N 0L4

Valley View Rest Home 905-478-2221
1345 Ravenshoe Road, East Gwillimbury, Ontario, L0G 1R0

Victoria House 905-989-1016
961 Metro Rd N, Keswick, Ontario, L4P 3E9

Westwood Manor
9 School Street, East Gwillimbury, Ontario, L9N 1L1

COVID19 - Closed for public access until further notice.

Provides a short term rent benefit and case management support to help people stay housed when faced with a temporary financial loss

COVID19 -- Assessments by Access York are by telephone only


Provides financial assistance to stabilize housing to eligible York Region residents who are homeless or at risk of homelessness and who are not receiving funds from Ontario Work or the Ontario Disabiity Support Program

Eligible Expenses

• first and last month's rent
• rental arrears
• assistance with mortgage payments or arrears
• utility arrears
• utility security deposit
• utility reconnection fees
• moving costs
• identification replacement
• funds for urgent medical needs
• landlord and tenant mediation

Follow up services are provided

The Homelessness Initiative seeks to:

• ensure that homeless people and those at risk of homelessness are provided longer-term housing solutions, shelter and support and prevention services.
• increase strategic engagement of partners and improved coordination and delivery of services.
• increase knowledge to support better informed policies, investment decision making and provision of services.

Assistance available to individuals includes:

• advocacy with Ontario Works, ODSP, service agencies and other sources of support
• assessment and referral to determine what the individuals situation is, what is necessary to ensure shelter and which agencies may provide suitable assistance
• a variety of assistance is available to help ensure housing is retained if it is in jeopardy of being lost, including possible financial assistance for needed services such as hydro and heating. Financial assistance is based on client need and is only accessible once.
• possible emergency shelter is available such as hotel chits.
• food security assistance
• Identification

Tax rebate and deferral programs for residential properties and water/wastewater rebates

• water and wastewater rebates for residents receiving support from government programs such as the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS), Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) or Ontario Works (OW)
• property tax rebates for seniors, including those with low income, and low income persons with disabilities
• property tax rebates for registered charities in leased or rented premises

Services include:

Housing Stability Program

• rental arrears and/or utility or energy arrears
• last month's rental deposit
• moving costs for those that move to secure more affordable accommodation
• assistance with rental arrears, moving cost, and utility arrears

Access to Affordable Housing

• staff assist to locate units available in the communities that clients wish to live
• assist with rental applications, completion of a standard lease and connecting clients with housing providers
• market rent and rent-geared-to-income (RGI)

ID Replacement

• year-round I.D. replacement for birth certificates
• staff assist with processing application information and will provide payment for the document
• expedited birth certificates will not be expensed by North House
• birth certificate replacements available to both clients, and their child if required

Income Tax

• complete taxes for the current year and 10 years prior
• e-file to CRA

Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB) Support

• staff will address and advise on concerns that you may have about your tenancy and the appropriate forms to file with the LTB
• staff can attend scheduled hearings as emotional and moral support but cannot speak on client's behalf

Landlord Engagement

• Opening Doors in Durham Region where landlords may be eligible to receive a signing bonus of up to $1,000 to provide permanent, affordable, and supported housing solutions to the communities in north Durham Region

Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP)

• assistance with arrears of electricity or natural gas bill and facing possibility of disconnection

Ontario Electricity Support Program

• lowers electricity bills for lower-income households
• provides a monthly credit to eligible customers based on household income and household size
• credits are applied directly to eligible customers' electricity bills

Financial assistance in the form of a rebate to qualified seniors or persons with disabilities who own and reside in their own homes; allows for property tax reduction against residential real property taxes; rebate is a grant and does not require repayment

Provides financial assistance and employment assistance to individuals in financial need. Services to clients include:

• employment support- referrals to community services including Housing and Children Services



• discretionary benefits maybe available to people receiving OW or ODSP on a case by case basis

The County of Dufferin Ontario Renovates program is designed to provide moderate income households, with an interest free loan to assist with necessary home repairs.

Funding is subject to availability

Dufferin County Homeownership Program is designed to provide moderate income households, with an interest free down payment assistance loan/second mortgage to help purchase a home.

There are no monthly mortgage payments for the second mortgage. Repayment of the second mortgage is required when the property is sold.

Residents of Dufferin County who are experiencing a housing crisis may be eligible for financial assistance to help find or keep housing.

Eligible expenses may include last month's rent deposits or rental arrears.

Utility assistance may include help with deposits, arrears, and disconnections.

For more information:

• See Application Form
• Call 519-941-6991 ext 2110
• Email hpp@dufferincounty.ca or
• Visit Programs to Assist with Rent and Utilities

Monthly benefit payment to help eligible households pay their rent. Benefit payments are:

• portable, so benefit may be received after moving to another address
• based on household income and local market rent values

Financial assistance for assistive devices -- subsidizes mobility equipment, ramps, tub transfer benches, wheelchairs (both manual and electric), grab bars, seat cushions, commodes, beds, transfer boards, bath chairs, computer software

Subsidized gym memberships -- for persons with disabilities

Accessible gym equipment-- funded by RH Mobility and housed at Ed Sackfield Fitness Centre

Community development -- works with other organizations to foster inclusion and create new programs and events for persons with disabilities

COVID19 -- Closed for public access until further notice. Applicants can apply for social assistance by calling Access York at 1-877-464-9675 or online at york.ca.

Assesses eligibility for Ontario Works financial and employment assistance, including verification interview

York Region COVID-19 Temporary Arrears Benefit

• One-time rental/mortgage or utility arrears support to eligible Ontario Works (OW) or Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) households in York Region who, as a result of COVID-19 have not been able to pay rent or utility expenses (are currently in arrears) and are at risk of eviction
• offers light case management
• benefit is available until December 31, 2021 or until funding is exhaused, whichever is first
• call Access York to apply

Provides financial benefits through Ontario Works, as well as employment and social supports to people living in Toronto

Financial Assistance -- monthly allowance based on family size, housing costs and income

• provides money for food, shelter, and other household costs
• coverage for prescription medications under the Ontario Drug Benefit Program
• help with health costs and employment related expenses
• visit www.toronto.ca/ontarioworks for list of benefits

Health Support --includes medical supplies, sensory and mobility aids, medical transportation

• discretionary benefits may include dentures, emergency dental services, eyeglasses, prosthetic devices, funerals and burials
• some benefits may be available to only those receiving social assistance, visit website for more information

Employment Assistance -- programs, services, and benefits for those seeking employment such as benefits for employment-related or training costs, costs related to starting a job

• Employment centres - walk-in job search centres
• Training Programs - programs to assist clients prepare for employment, self-employment or career advancement
• Employer Hotline 416-397-JOBS (5627) --for employers to post jobs
• clients 18-65 years must participate in employment assistance activities unless they are living with a serious disability or illness, or caring for preschool children

Child and Family Support - benefits include newborn child allowance, child care start-up costs

• Learning, Earning and Parenting (LEAP) -- helps young parents 16-25 finish high school, improve parenting skills, locate and maintain employment
• help in pursuing child or spousal support

Housing Stabilization Fund --help with rent and energy arrears, rent deposit, moving costs and essential furniture

Social Supports -- referral to community and government services including child care, housing, addiction supports, health and mental health services, food banks, legal services, supports for youth, seniors and persons with disabilities

Interactive Voice Response (IVR) 1-800-808-2268, Mon-Fri 8 am-9 pm, Sat-Sun noon-5 pm -- automated information, payment details, file status, service not available to TTY users

Client Services and Information Unit 416-338-8888, option 3, then option 5 --information on Ontario Works, including legislation and procedures

MyBenefits -- online service available to residents receiving Ontario Works to access information via smartphone, tablet or computer

Service and Benefit Finder -- personalized list of benefits for child care, employment, housing and living expenses

Welfare Fraud Hotline 416-392-8980 -- to report allegations of fraudulent collection of Ontario Works assistance

Housing Services

• housing counselling
• information and referral
• matches tenants with landlords, eviction prevention, landlord outreach and recruitment, housing listings
• voluntary trusteeship service
• street outreach to persons who are homeless, Streets to Homes follow up support for clients who have been placed in housing

MyAccesstoHousingTO (Housing Connections, see separate entry) Community Partner -- assistance with housing search and application process

Rent Bank access centre -- interest-free repayable loans to low-income households who are in rental arrears or need to move into more suitable housing

• must have legal status in Canada and meet income requirements
• clients of Ontario Works and Ontario Disability Support Program may be eligible
• landlord and tenant mediation
• money management advice
• follow-up search assistance and community referrals
• also interest-free loans for first and last month's rent deposit to move into more affordable housing

Access centre for Ontario Electricity Support Program -- assistance with applications

• also for LEAP (Low Income Energy Assistance Program), sponsored by Toronto Hydro Electric System and United Way Toronto -- assistance to low income individuals and families who are in arrears for their electricity utility bills and have exhausted all other sources of financial support
• for help with Enbridge gas bills call 1-855-487-5327