In 1995, the Province of Ontario began a major reform of social assistance programs. Two new programs were created: Ontario Works (OW) and the Ontario Disability Support Program (OSDP).

The Ontario Disability Support Program provides income and employment supports for people with disabilities and is delivered by the Ministry of Community and Social Services.

Ontario Works is an Ontario-wide program that municipalities deliver according to provincial regulations and rules. The province shares the cost of delivering OW with municipalities. This new program combines income support with employment services. It has two main components:

Employment Assistance

Provides opportunities for participants to engage in a variety of activities that lead to jobs or increase employment prospects.

Financial Assistance

Includes funds to cover food, shelter, clothing and other household items for people who have no other means of support. The province sets the benefit rates.

Clients are first assessed to determine whether they are in financial need. Most people who receive Financial Assistance must participate in an Employment Assistance activity to remain eligible.