Ontario Increase Welfare Rates by Only 2%

The Ontario government is increasing the maximum monthly social assistance rates by 2% for recipients of benefits under the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) and Ontario Works (OW). The increases
come into effect in November and December, respectively, and they apply to all basic needs allowances, shelter, board and lodging rates. Northern allowances, and special allowances paid to people in certain institutions and guide dog users. The 2% increase also applies to Back to School and Winter Clothing Allowances for eligible recipients with children under the age of 18. Families receiving assistance under the Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities program (payable to a parent with a child with a severe disability) will see the maximum monthly allowance increase from $400 to $410 per month, a 2.5% increase.

For more information:

What's New from the Ontario Ministry of Community and Social Services

Social Assistance Rate Increase

Implications for BC:

The BC Ministry have informed us in the past that they take welfare rates in other provinces into account when establishing the rates in BC, so we can expect them to look at the increases in other provinces when increasing the shelter allowance in BC in 2007. So, if BC follows Ontario's lead, we would expect only a 2% increase, which amounts to only an increase of $6.50 to the $325 shelter allowance. Or an overall welfare rate increase of 2% for a single employable person at $510 is $10.20 for a new monthly cheque of $520. Not really a significant difference.