About Ontario Works
Ontario Works (OW) provides financial assistance to individuals and families (participants) in financial need as they work towards stability and employment, meeting requirements of the Ontario Works Act by seeking employment, developing skills, volunteering, and/or completing basic education.
As of March 1, 2025, Employment Ontario began delivering employment supports for Ontario Works participants in Sault Ste. Marie. This means employment services are no longer delivered or funded by DSSMSSAB.
Here's what you need to know:
- DSSAB no longer funds employment-related activities.
- Payment for travel and transportation for employment are no longer available through OW, but you may be eligible with Employment Ontario.
- DSSAB continues to help OW participants access supports and referrals.
- OW participants should now have completed personalized action plans with Case Managers. If you yet to be contacted, please call 705-759-5266.
- When you are ready, staff will refer you to Employment Ontario for support to reach employment and development goals.
Our Employment Ontario partners:
Sault Community Career Centre
Employment Solutions
Yes You Can Employment
March of Dimes
My Benefits
MyBenefits is an online service available 24/7 to Ontario residents who receive Social Assistance, allowing participants to see case information and report changes anytime on any device. www.ontario.ca/mybenefits
Learning, Earning And Parenting Program
The Learning, Earning And Parenting (LEAP) Program allows participants to gain parenting skills, finish high school, and prepare for the working world by providing resources and access to support, including daycare, supplies, fees, counselling, parenting classes, incentives and more.
To be eligible for the LEAP Program, you must:
- Be a parent aged 16-25
- Be currently receiving Ontario Works or Ontario Disability Support
- Commit to school, parenting classes and job preparation
To learn more about the program, eligbility, contact your Case Manager or LEAP contact Alysha Thompson: a.thompson@socialservices-ssmd.ca.