Niagara (Region of). Community Services Department - Social Assistance & Employment Opportunities

Provides financial assistance and a range of employment supports and activities to enable participants and their families to achieve independence through sustainable employment.

As of Oct 1, 2024, the Centralized Intake Unit of the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) will determine eligibility, notify applicants of status of application and appeals and authorize initial payments.

Applications will now be completed online or by calling 1-888-999-1142

While individuals will now complete the online application via the MCCSS, Niagara Region Social Assistance and Employment Opportunities (SAEO) will continue to provide the following supports for all eligible applicants:

• Life stabilization activities
• Common assessment
• Action plans
• Referrals to community partners
• Monitoring eligibility for OW
• Will continue to adjudicate and issue
• Additional client benefits (cell, internet, bus pass)
• Discretionary Benefits
• dental and dentures
• health related items and services
• funeral and burial services
• Housing Stability Benefits
• Niagara Utility Benefits

The Niagara Region SAEO will address applications for the following:

• Youth (under 18)
• LEAP (Learning, Earning and Parenting)
• Temporary Care
• Emergency Assistance
• refers to the immediate provision of basic needs, shelter and benefits due to:
• catastrophic events (flood, fire, threats to physical health)
• emergency events (temporary disruption in ability to meet basic needs)
• relocation due to Domestic Violence

A dedicated team of SAEO staff will continue to support any individual who may face challenges with the MCCSS digital/automated application process, regardless of how they apply. Additionally, SAEO Case Managers will continue to provide person-centered casework that supports people on a pathway to greater independence and employment

Applicants requiring assistance navigating the MCCSS application process can reach out to their local SAEO office by phone or in person. All SAEO offices will have public computers and telephones for those looking to apply. Staff will be available to support those who are unable to navigate the website or do not have access to a computer/technology.

• be at least 16 years of age
• be an Ontario resident
• have assets no greater than the limits set out in the program
• be in financial need
• participate in employment activities

• must be under the age of 18
• special circumstances exist requiring the applicant to live outside the parental home
• all conditions of eligibility for OW are met

• be a parent 25 years of age or younger
• be receiving OW or ODSP
• have not completed high school

• adults who are temporarily responsible for the care of a child who is in financial need

• not already in receipt of social assistance
• not be serving a period of ineligibility
• have made reasonable effort to access all other resources
• have your physical health (or that of a family member) be in danger without the emergency assistance or at least one of your dependent children will be unable to continue to live with you
• have not received emergency assistance in the last six months