COVID-19 Funding (Basic Needs)

March 19, 2021

COVID 19 Funding for Income Assistance Clients – Basic Needs

The Government of Canada has committed an additional supplement 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 provide assistance to individuals and families on-reserve by providing temporary COVID -19 funding (Basic Needs) of $300 per month per Income Assistance client retroactively for three months (December 2020 – February 2021).

This benefit is available to all Ontario Works clients who were on OW with our office this past December, January and February – even if they are no longer on Ontario Works assistance.

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 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 are now ready and be picked up as follows:

For Northern issue:

Edna’s clients: Friday afternoon
Hayley’s clients: Saturday.

For GG’s issue:

Last names starting with:

A – C: Friday 1 – 5
D – I: Friday 5 – 8
J – M: Saturday 1-5
N – Q: Saturday 5-8
Q – Z: Sunday

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 and/or gift cards.

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

Take care and be safe!