Ontario Continues Efforts to Help Most Vulnerable

The Ontario government is investing more money in order to help the province’s most vulnerable population combat COVID-19.  Ontario Premier Doug Ford announced an additional $11 million to help deliver meals, medicines and other essentials to those in need.

“As we face some of the darkest times in our province’s history, we have a duty to protect and care for the most vulnerable in our society,” Ford said.  The province will also double the Guaranteed Annual Income System (GAINS) payments.  Individuals will receive approximately $166/ month, while couples will get $332/ month.  Doubled payments will continue for six months.   The province will revisit the decision at the end of six months”We will definitely be constantly reassessing as the situation develops,” Spokesperson Emily Hogeveen said.

The province is also working with the Ontario Community Support Association to launch the Ontario Community Support Program.  The program will expand Meals on Wheels services to those in the higher risk categories.  “For older Ontarians and people with disabilities, this may be especially challenging.”  The program will help increase capacity of community organizations to help deliver medication, and other essentials.