About financial assistance
Ontario Works (OW) provides monthly financial support to help cover your basic needs and shelter costs. The program is run by the provincial government, and the City of Wrenford delivers it locally through Service Wrenford at City Hall. This page explains how the money works, who qualifies, and how to get your first payment.
How much you can get
The province sets the monthly rates for basic needs and shelter allowances. These amounts change each year based on inflation. For 2026, a single person without dependents can receive up to $345.00 for basic needs and up to $510.00 for shelter, depending on your actual rent. If you have a partner or children, the amounts increase. You can see the full table on the Income and resource limits page. Payments are sent directly to your bank account by the 25th of each month.
Who qualifies
You must be a Canadian citizen, a protected person, or a refugee claimant with valid status. You must live in Wrenford and have limited income and assets. You also need to be able and willing to look for work, unless you are exempt because of age, disability, or caregiving responsibilities. If you are able to work, you will need to take part in employment planning and job search activities.
How to apply
Visit the Service Wrenford counter at Wrenford City Hall (100 Mercer Street) Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Bring a government-issued photo ID, proof of your Wrenford address, and recent bank statements. If you are a tenant, bring a recent rent receipt or lease. If you have a case worker, bring your OW referral letter. Bring all documents to your first appointment. If you submit a complete application by 4:15 p.m., you can get same-day processing. You will receive your first payment by direct deposit within five business days.
What you get
- Monthly cash deposit for basic needs and shelter
- Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) extension
- Dental and vision coverage
- Access to the Employment Support Services programme
Reporting changes
You must tell your case worker about any changes in your income, household size, or address within thirty days. You also need to check in with your case worker every month to confirm you are still eligible. If you miss a check-in or fail to report a change, your payment may be stopped. Learn more on the Reporting changes page.
Emergency financial help
If you have an urgent need for food, medication, or emergency shelter, you may qualify for an emergency withdrawal of up to $200.00 per month. Call 519-555-0111 after hours (5:00 p.m. to 8:30 a.m.) for shelter emergencies. For other urgent needs, visit Service Wrenford during business hours.
Disagreement or appeal
If your application is denied or your payment is reduced, you have thirty calendar days to ask the City for an internal review. The City will respond within twenty business days. If you are still not satisfied, you can appeal to the Social Benefits Tribunal within thirty calendar days of our letter.
Contact us
For questions about financial assistance, call 519-555-0100 or email contact information. You can also visit our Ontario Works home page for forms and links to employment support.