What is Ontario Works (OW)?

Ontario Works (OW) benefits are for people who need money because they cannot find work or temporarily cannot work.

OW has 2 main parts:

  • Financial assistance
  • Employment assistance

Financial Assistance

Financial assistance gives you money for food, shelter, clothing and other household items. Financial assistance is for basic needs.

Employment Assistance

Employment assistance helps you find work or get ready to work. It is to help you:

  • Get a job
  • Take training courses
  • Complete high school
  • Learn parenting skills
  • Improve your English skills
  • Volunteer
  • Find housing

For More Information

  • About Ontario Works - Official information about the Ontario Works program and links to related documents. From the Ministry of Community and Social Services.
  • Financial Assistance - Official information about the financial assistance part of the Ontario Works program and links to related documents. From the Ministry of Community and Social Services.
  • Employment Assistance - Official information about the Ontario Works program and links to related documents. From the Ministry of Community and Social Services.
  • Ontario Works Offices - Find contact information for Ontario Works offices in Ontario.
  • Social Assistance Law - Clear language information about your legal rights to social assistance. From CLEO (Community Legal Education Ontario).
Last updated: November 9, 2015 4001164