Based on community feedback on the final recommendations from the Commission for the Review of Social Assistance in Ontario, we are calling for the provincial government to take immediate action and do the following:
- Immediately increase the Basic Needs Allowance by $100/month for OW and ODSP recipients as the first step toward adequate social assistance rates.
- Index OW and ODSP rates immediately to keep up with the annual inflation rate.
- Ensure that the proposed integration of OW and ODSP does not result in any rate reductions or cuts to benefits such as the Special Diet Allowance.
- Introduce an earnings exemption for social assistance recipients with work hours so that a 50% clawback on earnings does not apply on at least the first $200/month earned.
- Immediately provide OW recipients with the same access to prescription drug and dental benefits as ODSP recipients currently receive. Longer term, extend access to all low-income Ontarians, outside the social assistance system.
A full summary report of the community conversations held on February 21, 2013, is available here: Community Feedback on ‘Brighter Prospects: Transforming Social Assistance in Ontario.
To show your support for this call to action, we strongly encourage you to sign the online petition before April 19, 2013. Please click the postcard below (once you submit your details, the petition website will ask for a monetary donation. Please ignore the request and rest assured that your signature has been captured):
This petition will be presented to local MPP’s, the provincial government, and key decision-makers.
For more information about the Review of Social Assistance in Ontario, visit http://socialassistancereview.ca/