Searching for Utility Assistance Programs

COVID19 -- services and classes being offered online and in-person; for information or to register and for all other settlement service inquiries, call 905-306-0577 ext 227 or email at info@ncpeel.ca; Crisis Services Direct Lines 416-455-8252 or 416-450-8734

------------ ------------- ---------------

LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English, upon assessment by Achēv -- see separate entry

• English classes
• LINC classes running online and in-person
• childminding may be available; part-time or full-time classes

Labour Market Access for Newcomers

• employment and business start-up assistance
• resume writing and job search skills
• networking and interview skills
• in-person and online classes

Settlement Services

• information and referral
• translation, interpretation and certification of documents
• citizenship preparation classes
• assistance with forms and applications, including access to Ontario Electricity Support Program
• workshops

Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS)

• services delivered in elementary and secondary schools in Mississauga during the school year
• information about the school system
• parent and youth-specific workshops with information on topics such as housing, health care and job search

Community Connections Mentorship Program

• group activities for newly arrived immigrant and refugee youth, adults and seniors
• trained volunteer mentors
• homework help for youth
• computer classes and low impact exercise for seniors

Bridging Generations -- Stronger Parents, Stronger Community

• tools to de-escalate conflicts and advocate for children
• helps parents define acceptable behavior, respond to their children's needs and reinforce their family's values

COVID19 -- call or email concerning service updates


Information and referral to community services

Settlement information for immigrants and refugees (including GARs)

• job search and housing help; information about health and education system
• in-home settlement visits available
• participates in LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English, upon assessment by Achēv -- see separate entry, childminding may be available for attendees with children 2 to 6 years, bus fare for eligible attendees
• computer/Zoom classes: Zoom classes open to all who want to learn video conferencing via the Zoom app; class outside LINC/ESL class time

Seniors programs including information and referral, social activities -- membership, help applying for benefits

Family abuse, mental health and rights information

Community Volunteer Income Tax program for low income families

Help for low-income families and seniors

• applying for Ontario Works in Peel or for Peel Access to Housing
• assistance with applications for OESP (Ontario Electricity Support Program)

Commissioner for taking affidavits

Multiservice agency

• community information and referrals
• counselling, anger management
• counselling for youth and young adults
• employment assistance including resume/cover letter preparation, job search
• social housing application assistance
• year round income tax clinic
• leadership skills development
• children's breakfast club (on and off site)
• outreach
• workshops for women and youth
• social and recreation activities, including children's book club and youth homework club

Electricity bill support assistance -- lead intake agency for Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) through Ontario Energy Board (OEB)

• pre-screening required, qualifying residents receive appointment to complete the application process
• Access centre for Ontario Electricity Support Program -- assistance with applications

Food, clothing, and toy distribution -- for new immigrants, refugees and Ontario Works recipients

• intake assessment required
• annual Christmas toy distribution application deadline October 15

Newcomer Information Services

• information and referrals, including immigration, employment and community services
• counselling
• some form filling assistance
• access to computers

COVID19 -- Call or visit website for COVID-related changes


Multi-service agency

Conflict Resolution Service: for individuals or groups to resolve disputes, disagreements, or concerns through free and confidential community mediation

Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) and Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP)

• Peel Region lead intake agency for LEAP (hydro) through Ontario Energy Board
• pre-screening required, qualifying residents receive appointment to complete the application process
• access centre for OESP -- assistance with applications
• for more information on LEAP for Enbridge Gas, contact United Way Simcoe Muskoka, 1-855-487-5327

Seasonal Income Tax Clinic -- by appointment

Orientation/Settlement Program

• assistance accessing health services, education, English language class referrals, translation and interpretation
• orientation and information workshops, referrals regarding government services
• assistance filling out government forms including forms for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
• solution-focused counselling
• individual advocacy when needed to obtain community and government services
• translation of foreign documents for settlement and educational purposes; Commissioner of Oaths for verifying documents

Health and Wellness Support Services for Newcomers -- one-on-one sessions to address stress, depression, anxiety, or loneliness; support groups and workshops; referrals to other mental health services

Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC)

• English classes, upon assessment by Achēv -- see separate entry
• childminding may be available for attendees with children 6 months to 6 years
• bus fare for eligible clients
• evening and weekend classes

Settlement Workers in Schools (SWIS)

• assists newcomer students and their families with settling into their schools and communities
• outreach program based in elementary and secondary schools from mid-August to end of June

Newcomer Youth Community Engagement (NYCE)

• helps newcomer youth learn about Canadian culture and society, and interact with youth their own age
• volunteers assist with English language skills, social skills, leadership building activities, life skills workshops

Disability and Settlement Services

• for newcomers with a disability
• information and referral, advocacy

EarlyON Child and Family Centres -- see separate entries

Growing Together in Peel (CAPC)

• for families with young children birth-6 years looking for extra help and living on low incomes
• play programs, parenting information, emotional support
• nutrition programs/food security

Caregivers' and Seniors Support Program

• education, information and referrals for caregivers and vulnerable seniors
• language specific groups and groups with people from all cultures offered

Volunteer opportunities

Immigrant Services -- settlement information and orientation to life in Canada

• needs assessment
• referral to other agencies and government services
• help filling in government forms and applications
• Commissioner of Oaths, document translation and interpretation with service providers
• crisis support counselling
• Youth Achieving Employment Project (YAE) research project to develop an intervention for recent postsecondary graduates struggling to find employment
• Mississauga Cycles cycling mentorship and do-it-yourself Bike Hub
• New Horizons for Seniors Program (NHSP) where seniors help seniors learn computer based social networking skills, digital photography, event management, report writing and also a social and physical exercise club

Participates in LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) in English, upon assessment by Achēv -- see separate entry

Enhanced Language Training (ELT) -- sector specific language training with job search workshops and a co-op placement
English Conversation Circles (ECC), and ESL Home Based Business Language Training

Community Connections Mentorship Program (formerly HOST Program)

• group activities for newly arrived immigrants and refugees of all ages to help orient them to their new community and establish social and professional networks
• trained and experienced volunteer mentors assist, with focus on citizenship and civic engagement or skills and career development

Community Services

• digital Literacy Training
• free seasonal income tax clinic
• mobile dental clinic
• Orientation to Ontario (O2O) webinars

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

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

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

• prescription drug coverage under the Ontario Drug Benefit Program
• health benefits including medical supplies, sensory and mobility aids, medical transportation
• discretionary benefits may include dentures, emergency dental services, eyeglasses, prosthetic devices, funerals and burials

Employment supports -- adult clients must participate in employment assistance activities unless they are living with a serious disability or illness, or caring for preschool children

• referrals to job counselling, training programs, basic education
• access to telephones, faxes, computers and job banks
• for more information contact caseworker or access additional supports by booking an appointment with closest Employment Ontario office

Housing Stability program -- provides financial and non-financial assistance to elegible residents of Peel Region to get or keep affordable housing

Past-due bills or rent -- help with utility bills or rent to avoid eviction, visit website to apply

Affordable Transit program -- for residents of Brampton or Mississauga who cant afford a monthly bus pass, visit website to apply

COVID19 -- all services and programs provided through phone, email, zoom, google meet, what's app and other channels whether in group sessions or individually; location is open by appointment

----------------------------------------

Settlement Services

• information and referral, housing and legal assistance
• translation and interpretation
• escort to appointments
• counselling for students, individuals and families, liaising with Children's Aid Society
• youth counselling and parenting sessions
• orientation
• Community Connections Mentorship Program -- community support through volunteer befriending, help adapting to community life skills, conversation circles to practice English
• credential evaluations - referral to World Education Services (WES)

Refugee Services

• referral and assistance with shelter, attendance at inquiry, employment, social, welfare and legal services
• social and cultural activities
• Ontario Community Participation -- volunteer placement program for Ontario Works recipients

Career Café -- ACCT's Employment Services helps newcomers understand and integrate into the Canadian job market

• delivered one on one and in a group setting, both online and in-person
• self assessment, writing resumes and cover letters, job search techniques, researching the job market and networking

Youth Services

• settlement program encouraging civic participation and integration through a focus on recreation, sport, and mentorship

Toronto Youth Job Corps

• full time paid employment preparation program for youth 15-30 years who are out of school, out of work, and require support in obtaining and maintaining employment
• 5 week pre-employment activities including resume preparation, employment readiness skills, career planning, counselling and referral
• 8 to 16 week supported placement with an employer in the community, with ongoing support after completing the program
• placements are in careers such as sales, administration, construction, or trades

Halftime -- a project for Black youth to help them build resiliency against risk factors of violence

Access Centre for Ontario Electricity Support Program

• assistance with applications

Problem Gambling Program

• culturally appropriate prevention, education and treatment with outreach and public education to community groups
• individual or group counselling for gamblers or those affected by gambling

Domestic Violence Education Program

• counselling and referral for victims of family violence

Housing Services

• housing counselling
• information and referral
• matches tenants with landlords, eviction prevention, landlord outreach and recruitment, housing listings

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

MyBenefits -- online service available to residents receiving Ontario Works to access information via smartphone, tablet or computerWelfare Fraud Hotline 416-392-8980

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

Objectives are to relieve poverty for people of all abilities, through programs like:

Food Bank
* see here for more details

Household Goods and Clothing
* when made aware of individual needs for clothing and household goods, OPNC post's those specific needs on Facebook page
* if you have items that you would like to donate, please contact in advance (do not drop off unless need is confirmed)
* annual winter coat drive

Finding Hope in Poverty Support Group
* free counselling and peer to peer support group
* Wed 10 am-11:30 am
* contact hope@opnc.ca

Year Round Income Tax Clinics
* see here for more details
* contact support@opnc.ca
* or visit haltontax.ca

Micro Finance Loans
* can assist with low interest loans for those who would not otherwise qualify (Subject to approval)
* contact support@opnc.ca for appointments

Canada Learning Bond
* Free Government Money for your child's education
* visit smartsaver.org for more details

Utility Bill Payment Assistance
* for more information see, Gas & Hydro Bill Assistance - Oakville

Financial Management Support
* budgeting, information and referral for support
* Wed & Thu 11:30 am-2:30 pm

Assistive Devices
* small inventory of items to give those in need
* ability to provide funding to purchase items
* contact hello@opnc.ca

Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP):

• provides up to $500 assistance with paying bills for low income households where there is danger of disconnection
• provide copy of bill, proof rent/mortgage is up to date, 2 months bank statements and ID for all in household

Hydro:

• call 905-257-6029 ext 105

Gas:

• call 1-855-487-5327 Simcoe Muskoka United Way- LEAP Program 8:30 am-4 pm to begin intake
• United Way will send a partially completed intake form to Oak Park
• Oak Park will call you when the form arrives and ask you to come in with the documents listed above to complete the form
• they will then send the form back to the United Way to see if you will be assisted

Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP):

• provides $30-$75 discount per month on hydro bills for residents whose income falls below the Low Income Measure (LIM) cutoff
• the online application can be done if everyone in the household over 17 has completed their income tax and if they have a printer to print off the consent form to mail
• if individuals have not done their taxes or if they now make less than what is on their taxes and that has put them below the poverty line then they must go to Oak Park Neighbourhood Centre for staff to complete the application by looking at bank statements or tax returns to establish that they are living below poverty line and then staff will submit it on their behalf
• contact Oak Park Neighbourhood Centre for more information

A neighbourhood centre offering many different supports through community partnerships
* circle time (ages 1-3)
* art therapy
* one-on-one counselling
* Circles of Reconciliation
* Peer Support program
* Anti-Human Trafficking Support

Harm Reduction
* harm reduction supplies and naloxone overdose prevention kits
* community support and referrals
* regular visits from Halton Harm Reduction van

Food Pantry
* for more information, see here

Year Round Income Tax Assistance
* for more information, see here

Gas & Hydro Bill Assistance
* for more information, see here

Other community agencies providing programs at this location include:
* The Bridge: Halton
* STRIDE
* Home Suite Hope
* Women's Centre of Halton
* CMHA Halton
* Elizabeth Fry Society
* SAVIS
* ADAPT
* Summit Housing and Outreach Programs

Objectives are to relieve poverty for people of all abilities, through programs like:

Food Bank
* see here for more details

Household Goods and Clothing
* when made aware of individual needs for clothing and household goods, OPNC post's those specific needs on Facebook page
* if you have items that you would like to donate, please contact in advance (do not drop off unless need is confirmed)
* annual winter coat drive

Finding Hope in Poverty Support Group
* free counselling and peer to peer support group
* Wed 10 am-11:30 am
* contact hope@opnc.ca

Year Round Income Tax Clinics
* see here for more details
* contact support@opnc.ca
* or visit haltontax.ca

Micro Finance Loans
* can assist with low interest loans for those who would not otherwise qualify (Subject to approval)
* contact support@opnc.ca for appointments

Canada Learning Bond
* Free Government Money for your child's education
* visit smartsaver.org for more details

Utility Bill Payment Assistance
* for more information see, Gas & Hydro Bill Assistance - Oakville

Financial Management Support
* budgeting, information and referral for support
* Wed & Thu 11:30 am-2:30 pm

Assistive Devices
* small inventory of items to give those in need
* ability to provide funding to purchase items
* contact hello@opnc.ca

Affordable housing information and supports

Housing Subsidy, www.peelregion.ca/housing/apply-for-subsidy
Visit website to apply online for subsidized rental housing, or to update client information

• rent supplement residents selected from centralized waiting list run by Peel Access to Housing (PATH)
• eligibility information available online, including unit size and gross household income
• visit website for appeals information and request form, fax completed eligibility decision appeals to Service Manager at 905-453-0168, or send to Service Manager Appeals, 10 Centre Dr, Suite B, PO Box 2800, STN B, Brampton L6T 0E7

Peel Living, www.peelregion.ca/peelliving
Local municipal non-profit housing provider includes private non-profit housing such as non-profit housing co-operatives, with online repair request availble to current tenants

Preventing Homelessness in Peel Program (PHIPP)
One-time emergency assistance (for utility bills or rent) to low-income families and individuals at risk of losing their housing, apply online at www.peelregion.ca/help/past-due-bills, or by phone 905-453-1300 for urgent housing and eviction support

Market Rental Housing
Non-subsidized rental units may be available, visit website for information

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

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

• prescription drug coverage under the Ontario Drug Benefit Program
• health benefits including medical supplies, sensory and mobility aids, medical transportation
• discretionary benefits may include dentures, emergency dental services, eyeglasses, prosthetic devices, funerals and burials

Employment supports -- adult clients must participate in employment assistance activities unless they are living with a serious disability or illness, or caring for preschool children

• referrals to job counselling, training programs, basic education
• access to telephones, faxes, computers and job banks
• for more information contact caseworker or access additional supports by booking appointment with closest Employment Ontario office

Housing Stability program -- provides financial and non-financial assistance to eligible residents of Peel Region to get or keep affordable housing

Past-due bills or rent -- help with utility bills or rent to avoid eviction, visit website to apply

Affordable Transit program (ATP)-- for residents of Brampton or Mississauga who can't afford a monthly bus pass, visit website to apply

The fund's purpose is to help residents of Halton maintain their housing

• offers individuals and families one time assistance with basic housing expenses including last month's rent, rent and utility arrears, storage or moving costs and furniture
• call 311 or send an email and your information will be taken by a Customer Service Representative and a Integrated Housing Worker will contact you within 2-4 business days to further discuss your request

See Gas & Hydro Bill Assistance for further assistance options

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

COVID19 -- Many services continue to be available to clients by phone (and if necessary, as determined by the Unison provider/staff, in person); call 416-653-5400 for more information

• Legal Services: phone only, 416-653-5400 ext. 1244
• Housing Services: phone only, 416-653-5400 ext. 1306 and leave a message
• Harm Reduction: phone only, 647-999-3094

Community Health Centre

• health services, health promotion
• community services and community development
• Ontario Health Insurance NOT required for general services

Health Services

• family practice including crisis pregnancy, family planning, management of chronic conditions, prenatal and postnatal care, preventative health care, seniors' health, sexual health
• individual and sexuality counselling, treatment of sexually transmitted diseases
• counselling and case management
• dietitian
• podiatry clinic

Health Promotion

• breastfeeding clinic
• child and parenting programs, including Spanish-speaking groups
• Diabetes Education Centre
• harm reduction programs
• seniors programs
• Toronto Public Health dental clinic
• women's programs
• youth programs

Community Services

• Adult Protective Service program for adults with developmental disabilities
• community kitchen

Housing Help Centre

• client advocacy
• crisis referral to shelters
• eviction prevention
• housing search
• information and referral
• landlord outreach
• negotiation with landlords
• Share the Warmth
• Housing Connections Access Centre
• other Home Services -- rent bank and Streets to Homes Follow-up services

Access Centre 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

COVID19 -- services continue by phone, email, and video, online workshops and webinars available * offices are closed except for refugee shelters * see website page linked here for phone numbers to contact staff at specific services
COVID-19: SERVICE NOTICE

Housing Help services

• support finding and maintaining housing
• eviction prevention and housing stabilization services
• counselling, case management, advocacy support and referral for post housing stabilization
• information, referral, assistance with applications for subsidized, supportive housing, or emergency shelters
• crisis intervention
• drop-in program, free telephone and computers use during drop-in hours
• Streets to Homes Follow-up Program -- services and specialized help for formerly homeless individuals with complex needs, ID clinic
• seasonal income tax clinic

Information, orientation and education on the topics such as money management, tenants' rights and responsibilities and other community services that assist families facing crisis

Toronto 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

• applicants must be low income with adequate income to sustain their housing
• must have legal status in Canada, and pay market rent (not subsidized)
• additional eligibility criteria apply, Ontario Works and Ontario Disability Support Program recipients not eligible

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

Member agency of Toronto Drop-in Network (TDIN) and Housing Help Association of Ontario (HHAO)

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

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

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

MyBenefits -- online service available to residents receiving Ontario Works to access information via smartphone, tablet or computerWelfare Fraud Hotline 416-392-8980

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

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

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

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

MyBenefits -- online service available to residents receiving Ontario Works to access information via smartphone, tablet or computerWelfare Fraud Hotline 416-392-8980

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

A Christian organization which provides community programming and Christian teaching for both children and adults

Community and Family Services include:

• food bank
• spiritual needs
• subsidized Summer Day Camp
• youth programs
• Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP), providing one time help with those struggling to pay their hydro arrears
• Christmas assistance
• volunteers always welcome, contact office for more information

Explains different housing types and how to apply, and directs to other housing-related listings in this directory
* for emergency shelters see separate listing here


NONPROFIT HOUSING
Housing operated to fill a social need, not as a business
* may be owned by government, nonprofits or charities, co-operatives, etc.
* some is subsidized (reserved for people with low income), some is 'market rent' (open to people of any income)
* some is reserved for seniors or people with disabilities (may have supportive services, like meals, personal support, etc.)

How to find and apply to nonprofit housing:
For complete list see Halton Region website here
Details for each listing show how to apply, but in general:
* for most market-rent units, apply directly to individual housing provider
* for most (but not all) subsidized units, apply through HATCH (at Halton Region 905-825-6000, or see separate HATCH listing here)

Halton Housing Help
Contact at Halton Region 905-825-6000 or see separate listing here
* can help explain the housing system, how to search and apply


PRIVATE RENTAL MARKET
Housing that is privately owned, rented as a for-profit business

How to find private rental market housing:
Halton Housing Help
Contact at Halton Region 905-825-6000 or see separate listing here
* provides free help and support to tenants to find and keep rental housing
* posts listings of available housing (see here)

Rental listings can also be found in local newspapers, and on websites such as gottarent, viewit, Kijiji, etc.


YOUTH HOUSING
Bridging the Gap
For youth, ages 16 to 24, who are homeless or at risk of homelessness
* call 905-635-0663 or see full listing here

Community Youth Programs
Offers residential placement for youth, ages 15 to 18, not able to live with family but not ready for independent living
* call 905-845-9718 or see full listing here

Support House
Offers a full range of supportive housing options for youth ages 16 and up with mental health and/or substance use issues
* call toll free 1-833-845-9355 or see full listing here


HELP TO PAY DEPOSITS OR RENT
Halton Region Housing Stability Fund
One-time assistance with basic housing expenses to help people maintain their housing
* call Halton Region 905-825-6000 or see separate listing here

VETS Canada
For Canadian veterans who are in crisis, at risk of becoming homeless, or are homeless
* call toll free 1-888-228-3871 ext 121 or see separate listing here


HELP TO PAY UTILITIES
See separate listings for Gas & Hydro Bill Assistance here


PROPERTY TAX REBATES AND DEFERRALS
Property Tax Rebate (for lower-income seniors or people with disabilities)
See separate listings for Burlington * Oakville * Milton * Halton Hills or contact your local municipal government

Older Adults Property Tax Deferral Program (for lower-income seniors)
* call Halton Region at 905-825-6000 or see full listing here


LEGAL HELP FOR HOUSING
Halton Community Legal Services
Provides free legal assistance to those with low income, for housing and landlord/tenant issues
* call 905-875-2069 or see full listing here