COVID-19 Basic Needs Funding for Ontario Works Clients

February 18, 2022

COVID 19 Basic Needs Funding for Income Assistance Clients

The Government of Canada has committed an additional supplement to the On-Reserve Income Assistance Program to help ensure that First Nations individuals and families who rely on Income Assistance will be able to cover their essential living expenses during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) will assist individuals and families on-reserve by providing temporary COVID-19 funding (Basic Needs) of $300 per month per Income Assistance client for five months (November and December 2021, and January, February, and March 2022).

This benefit is available to all Ontario Works clients who were on OW with our office for that time period – even if they are no longer on Ontario Works assistance.

We are currently issuing for the months of November, December, and January. We have made arrangements with our local vendors, Northern Store and GG’s, to issue an in-store voucher. Whatever amount each client was eligible for we divided equally between the two stores. For example, if you are eligible for the full $900 (Nov, Dec, and Jan) you get a voucher from GG’s at $450 and from Northern for $450.

For the clients who are no longer on OW and live out of town payment will be made directly to you through Direct Deposit or cheque.

Vouchers for February and March will be available Friday, March 18^th, 2022.

To pick up your vouchers

Northern Store vouchers are ready for pick up (Friday, February 18^th)
GG’s vouchers will be ready on Monday, February 21^st

The vouchers are to be used for food, clothing, household items and camping supplies as well for those of you going out to spring camp. No electronics, tobacco, games, toys, or gift cards.

Thank you. Should you have any questions please contact your worker.

Take care and be safe!