Economic Prosperity

Income Supports and Tax Services

Canada. Canada Pension Plan - Old Age Security

Toronto, ON

Old Age Security (OAS)

• Monthly pension to legal residents of Canada 65 years and older
• full pension to those who have lived in Canada for at least 40 years after turning 18
• partial pension may be available

Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) -- Monthly supplement for low income OAS recipients living in Canada
Allowance -- Monthly benefit for low income spouses (60-64 years) of GIS recipients; based on combined income of the couple

Allowance for the Survivor -- Monthly benefit for low income widowed spouses 60-64 years

Social Security Tribunal, 1-877-227-8577 -- independent appeal process for Old Age Security decisions, see separate entry

Programs of Employment and Social Development Canada, delivered by Service Canada

Guaranteed Annual Income System (GAINS), 1-866-668-8297 -- monthly supplement to low income Ontario seniors receiving OAS and GIS ; program of the Ontario Ministry of Finance

Retirement Hub - information and resource on pension and retirement planning

https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/publicpensions/cpp/old-age-security.html

Office: 1-800-277-9914

TTY: 1-800-255-4786

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4:30 pm to speak to an agent Recorded information Mon-Sun 24 hours

Canada. Canada Pension Plan - Retirement pension

Toronto, ON

Monthly retirement pension, beginning as early as 60 years or as late as 70 years

• full pension if started at 65 years
• reduced pension if started before 65 years
• increased pension if started after 65 years

Post-Retirement Benefit -- for workers 60-70 years who continue to contribute to CPP while receiving a CPP pension

Disability benefits -- for contributors under 65 years

• allowance for dependent children

Survivor benefits -- monthly pension for surviving spouse or common law partner

• children's benefit for dependent children of deceased contributor
• death benefit (lump sum payment to estate, or persons responsible for funeral costs)

Amount of benefits payable is in proportion to contributions

• pension credits earned by either spouse may be divided equally (credit splitting) on termination of marriage or common law partnership

Social Security Tribunal, 1-877-227-8577 -- independent appeal process for Canada Pension Plan decisions, see separate entry

Program of Employment and Social Development Canada, delivered by Service Canada

Retirement Hub - information and resources on pensions and retirement planning

https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/publicpensions/cpp.html

Office: 1-800-277-9914

TTY: 1-800-255-4786

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4:30 pm to speak to an agent Recorded information Mon-Sun 24 hours

Canada. Canada Revenue Agency - St Catharines Tax Services Office

32 Church St
Main Fl St Catharines, ON
L2R 3B7

Administers tax laws for the Government of Canada and for most provinces and territories, and administers various social and economic benefit and incentive programs delivered through the tax system.

Provides information on income tax deductions, credits and exemptions including:

• GST/HST Credit
• Canada Child Benefit
• Ontario Trillium Benefit

https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency.html

Office: 1-800-959-8281

Businesses & Self Employed Inidviduals: 1-800-959-5525

TIPS automated information: 1-800-267-6999

GST/HST enquiries: 1-800-387-1193

Fax: 905-688-5996

TTY: 1-800-665-0354

Mon-Fri 6:30 am-11 pm, Sat 7:30 am-8 pm

Canada. Employment Insurance

Toronto, ON

Service Overview

• Temporary financial assistance and support in finding new employment
• claimants must conduct a reasonable job search to remain eligible
• Basic benefit rate is 55% of average insured earnings
• maximum weekly benefit $668
• duration of benefits based on insured weeks of work and regional unemployment rate

Working While on Claim

• claimants keep 50 cents of EI benefits for every dollar earned in wages, up to a maximum of 90% of weekly earnings
• claimants may choose instead to earn up to 40% of regular benefits or $75 per week (whichever is higher) with no reduction in EI payment

Family and caregiving benefits

• for low income families who receive the Canada Child Benefit (see separate entry)
• amount based on annual net family income
• supplement will be added to EI payment

Special benefits for self-employed people

• 6 types of special benefits including maternity, parental, sickness, family caregiver benefit for children, family caregiver benefit for adults, and compassionate care
• Claimants may be able to receive combination of special benefits
  

My Service Canada Account -- computer access to claim information

​Social Security Tribunal, 1-877-227-8577 -- independent appeal process for Employment Insurance decisions, see separate entry

Job Bank www.jobbank.gc.ca

• online employment information and job postings
• employers can post jobs online
• see separate entry

Program of Employment and Social Development Canada, delivered by Service Canada

Phone average wait time

http://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/ei.html

Office: 1-800-206-7218

Automated information and reporting Service : 1-800-531-7555

Social Security Tribunal : 1-877-227-8577

TTY: 1-800-529-3742

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4:30 pm to speak to an agent Recorded information Mon-Sun 24 hours

Grantham Lions Club

732 Niagara St
St Catharines, ON
L2M 1V7

A service club made up of community-minded men and women that raise funds for a variety of causes. New members are always welcome to join. Requests for funding must be forwarded in writing.

https://www.granthamlionsclub.com

granthamlion@gmail.com

Office: 905-935-8434

Call for information

Hope Centre (The) - Financial and Community Programs

570 King St
Welland, ON
L3B 3L2

Programs include:

Utility Assistance: Provides intake for the Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP) to lower electricity bills for low-income households.

Trusteeship: assists clients in effective budgeting * ensuring rent and bills are paid directly to the landlord and service providers to prevent evictions/disconnections

Dental: Brushed Aside partner agency - Limited assistance available for the treatment of pain/infection or dentures provided through a partnership with the United Way and other local agencies.

One Sight Program: assists clients with obtaining prescription eyeglasses

Homelessness Prevention Coordinator: provide housing information, assistance with goal setting, advocacy and emotional support

Kacey Lynn Fund: financial assistance to eligible families with children encountering health and dental expenses beyond their income and/or health benefits

https://www.thehopecentre.net

info@thehopecentre.net

Office: 905-788-0744

Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri 8:30 am-4:30 pm * Wed 11 am-7 pm

Niagara (Region of). Community Services Department - Social Assistance & Employment Opportunities

469 Central Ave
Fort Erie, ON
L2A 3T8

Provides financial assistance and a range of employment supports and activities to enable participants and their families to achieve independence through sustainable employment.

As of Oct 1, 2024, the Centralized Intake Unit of the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) will determine eligibility, notify applicants of status of application and appeals and authorize initial payments.

Applications will now be completed online or by calling 1-888-999-1142

While individuals will now complete the online application via the MCCSS, Niagara Region Social Assistance and Employment Opportunities (SAEO) will continue to provide the following supports for all eligible applicants:

• Life stabilization activities
• Common assessment
• Action plans
• Referrals to community partners
• Monitoring eligibility for OW
• Will continue to adjudicate and issue
• Additional client benefits (cell, internet, bus pass)
• Discretionary Benefits
• dental and dentures
• health related items and services
• funeral and burial services
• Housing Stability Benefits
• Niagara Utility Benefits

The Niagara Region SAEO will address applications for the following:

• Youth (under 18)
• LEAP (Learning, Earning and Parenting)
• Temporary Care
• Emergency Assistance
• refers to the immediate provision of basic needs, shelter and benefits due to:
• catastrophic events (flood, fire, threats to physical health)
• emergency events (temporary disruption in ability to meet basic needs)
• relocation due to Domestic Violence

A dedicated team of SAEO staff will continue to support any individual who may face challenges with the MCCSS digital/automated application process, regardless of how they apply. Additionally, SAEO Case Managers will continue to provide person-centered casework that supports people on a pathway to greater independence and employment

Applicants requiring assistance navigating the MCCSS application process can reach out to their local SAEO office by phone or in person. All SAEO offices will have public computers and telephones for those looking to apply. Staff will be available to support those who are unable to navigate the website or do not have access to a computer/technology.

https://www.niagararegion.ca/social-services/default.aspx

Office: 905-354-3561 ext 6331

Toll Free: 1-888-999-1142

Fax: 905-994-7262

MCCSS Mon-Fri 8:30 am-5 pm * SAEO Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4 pm

Niagara (Region of). Community Services Department - Social Assistance & Employment Opportunities

5853 Peer St
Niagara Falls, ON
L2G 1X4

Provides financial assistance and a range of employment supports and activities to enable participants and their families to achieve independence through sustainable employment.

As of Oct 1, 2024, the Centralized Intake Unit of the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) will determine eligibility, notify applicants of status of application and appeals and authorize initial payments.

Applications will now be completed online or by calling 1-888-999-1142

While individuals will now complete the online application via the MCCSS, Niagara Region Social Assistance and Employment Opportunities (SAEO) will continue to provide the following supports for all eligible applicants:

• Life stabilization activities
• Common assessment
• Action plans
• Referrals to community partners
• Monitoring eligibility for OW
• Will continue to adjudicate and issue
• Additional client benefits (cell, internet, bus pass)
• Discretionary Benefits
• dental and dentures
• health related items and services
• funeral and burial services
• Housing Stability Benefits
• Niagara Utility Benefits

The Niagara Region SAEO will address applications for the following:

• Youth (under 18)
• LEAP (Learning, Earning and Parenting)
• Temporary Care
• Emergency Assistance
• refers to the immediate provision of basic needs, shelter and benefits due to:
• catastrophic events (flood, fire, threats to physical health)
• emergency events (temporary disruption in ability to meet basic needs)
• relocation due to Domestic Violence

A dedicated team of SAEO staff will continue to support any individual who may face challenges with the MCCSS digital/automated application process, regardless of how they apply. Additionally, SAEO Case Managers will continue to provide person-centered casework that supports people on a pathway to greater independence and employment

Applicants requiring assistance navigating the MCCSS application process can reach out to their local SAEO office by phone or in person. All SAEO offices will have public computers and telephones for those looking to apply. Staff will be available to support those who are unable to navigate the website or do not have access to a computer/technology.

https://www.niagararegion.ca/social-services/default.aspx

Office: 905-354-3561 ext 6331

Toll Free: 1-888-999-1142

Fax: 905-353-1613

MCCSS Mon-Fri 8:30 am-5 pm * SAEO Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4 pm

Niagara (Region of). Community Services Department - Social Assistance & Employment Opportunities

92 Charlotte St
Port Colborne, ON
L3K 3E1

Provides financial assistance and a range of employment supports and activities to enable participants and their families to achieve independence through sustainable employment.

As of Oct 1, 2024, the Centralized Intake Unit of the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) will determine eligibility, notify applicants of status of application and appeals and authorize initial payments.

Applications will now be completed online or by calling 1-888-999-1142

While individuals will now complete the online application via the MCCSS, Niagara Region Social Assistance and Employment Opportunities (SAEO) will continue to provide the following supports for all eligible applicants:

• Life stabilization activities
• Common assessment
• Action plans
• Referrals to community partners
• Monitoring eligibility for OW
• Will continue to adjudicate and issue
• Additional client benefits (cell, internet, bus pass)
• Discretionary Benefits
• dental and dentures
• health related items and services
• funeral and burial services
• Housing Stability Benefits
• Niagara Utility Benefits

The Niagara Region SAEO will address applications for the following:

• Youth (under 18)
• LEAP (Learning, Earning and Parenting)
• Temporary Care
• Emergency Assistance
• refers to the immediate provision of basic needs, shelter and benefits due to:
• catastrophic events (flood, fire, threats to physical health)
• emergency events (temporary disruption in ability to meet basic needs)
• relocation due to Domestic Violence

A dedicated team of SAEO staff will continue to support any individual who may face challenges with the MCCSS digital/automated application process, regardless of how they apply. Additionally, SAEO Case Managers will continue to provide person-centered casework that supports people on a pathway to greater independence and employment

Applicants requiring assistance navigating the MCCSS application process can reach out to their local SAEO office by phone or in person. All SAEO offices will have public computers and telephones for those looking to apply. Staff will be available to support those who are unable to navigate the website or do not have access to a computer/technology.

https://www.niagararegion.ca/social-services/default.aspx

Office: 905-734-7975 ext 6367

Toll Free: 1-888-999-1142

Fax: 905-834-4445

MCCSS Mon-Fri 8:30 am-5 pm * SAEO Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4 pm

Niagara (Region of). Community Services Department - Social Assistance & Employment Opportunities

234 Bunting Rd
St Catharines, ON
L2R 6Z4

Provides financial assistance and a range of employment supports and activities to enable participants and their families to achieve independence through sustainable employment.

As of Oct 1, 2024, the Centralized Intake Unit of the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) will determine eligibility, notify applicants of status of application and appeals and authorize initial payments.

Applications will now be completed online or by calling 1-888-999-1142

While individuals will now complete the online application via the MCCSS, Niagara Region Social Assistance and Employment Opportunities (SAEO) will continue to provide the following supports for all eligible applicants:

• Life stabilization activities
• Common assessment
• Action plans
• Referrals to community partners
• Monitoring eligibility for OW
• Will continue to adjudicate and issue
• Additional client benefits (cell, internet, bus pass)
• Discretionary Benefits
• dental and dentures
• health related items and services
• funeral and burial services
• Housing Stability Benefits
• Niagara Utility Benefits

The Niagara Region SAEO will address applications for the following:

• Youth (under 18)
• LEAP (Learning, Earning and Parenting)
• Temporary Care
• Emergency Assistance
• refers to the immediate provision of basic needs, shelter and benefits due to:
• catastrophic events (flood, fire, threats to physical health)
• emergency events (temporary disruption in ability to meet basic needs)
• relocation due to Domestic Violence

A dedicated team of SAEO staff will continue to support any individual who may face challenges with the MCCSS digital/automated application process, regardless of how they apply. Additionally, SAEO Case Managers will continue to provide person-centered casework that supports people on a pathway to greater independence and employment

Applicants requiring assistance navigating the MCCSS application process can reach out to their local SAEO office by phone or in person. All SAEO offices will have public computers and telephones for those looking to apply. Staff will be available to support those who are unable to navigate the website or do not have access to a computer/technology.

https://www.niagararegion.ca/social-services/default.aspx

Office: 905-641-9960 ext 6095

Toll Free: 1-888-999-1142

Fax: 905-984-8760

MCCSS Mon-Fri 8:30 am-5 pm * SAEO Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4 pm

Niagara (Region of). Community Services Department - Social Assistance & Employment Opportunities

250 Thorold Rd
Welland, ON
L3C 3W2

Provides financial assistance and a range of employment supports and activities to enable participants and their families to achieve independence through sustainable employment.

As of Oct 1, 2024, the Centralized Intake Unit of the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) will determine eligibility, notify applicants of status of application and appeals and authorize initial payments.

Applications will now be completed online or by calling 1-888-999-1142

While individuals will now complete the online application via the MCCSS, Niagara Region Social Assistance and Employment Opportunities (SAEO) will continue to provide the following supports for all eligible applicants:

• Life stabilization activities
• Common assessment
• Action plans
• Referrals to community partners
• Monitoring eligibility for OW
• Will continue to adjudicate and issue
• Additional client benefits (cell, internet, bus pass)
• Discretionary Benefits
• dental and dentures
• health related items and services
• funeral and burial services
• Housing Stability Benefits
• Niagara Utility Benefits

The Niagara Region SAEO will address applications for the following:

• Youth (under 18)
• LEAP (Learning, Earning and Parenting)
• Temporary Care
• Emergency Assistance
• refers to the immediate provision of basic needs, shelter and benefits due to:
• catastrophic events (flood, fire, threats to physical health)
• emergency events (temporary disruption in ability to meet basic needs)
• relocation due to Domestic Violence

A dedicated team of SAEO staff will continue to support any individual who may face challenges with the MCCSS digital/automated application process, regardless of how they apply. Additionally, SAEO Case Managers will continue to provide person-centered casework that supports people on a pathway to greater independence and employment

Applicants requiring assistance navigating the MCCSS application process can reach out to their local SAEO office by phone or in person. All SAEO offices will have public computers and telephones for those looking to apply. Staff will be available to support those who are unable to navigate the website or do not have access to a computer/technology.

https://www.niagararegion.ca/social-services/default.aspx

Office: 905-734-7975 ext 6367

Toll Free: 1-888-999-1142

Fax: 905-735-7307

MCCSS Mon-Fri 8:30 am-5 pm * SAEO Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4 pm

Ontario. Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services - Ontario Disability Support Program

Garden City Tower, 301 St Paul St
Mezzanine Fl St Catharines, ON
L2R 7R4

Helps people with disabilities who are in financial need pay for living expenses, like food and housing.

The program provides eligible people with disabilities with:

Income Support - helps people with disabilities who are in financial need pay for living expenses, like food and housing.

Employment Supports - helps people with disabilities who can and want to work prepare for and find a job.

If a person is receiving ODSP Income support, the individual and their family may be eligible to receive health benefits including prescription drugs, dental care, vision care, medical supplies, transportation to medical appointments.

Extended Health Benefit If someone does not qualify for ODSP income support due to excess income from other sources, they may qualify for the Extended Health Benefit. It may help with the cost of prescription drugs, basic dental care, vision care, medical supplies, transportation to medical appointments, assistive devices including hearing aids.

https://www.mcss.gov.on.ca/en/mcss/programs/social/odsp

odspstcath@ontario.ca

Office: 905-688-3022

Toll Free: 1-800-263-5413 ; IVR 1-800-808-2268

Fax: 905-688-2904

TTY: 905-688-1140

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-5 pm

Service Canada - Service Canada, Fort Erie Scheduled Outreach Site

Job Gym, 469 Central Ave
Fort Erie, ON
L2A 3T8

One-stop service delivery for a wide range of federal programs and services. Internet access and assistance locating and applying for government programs including:

• Employment Insurance
• Social Insurance Numbers
• Canada Pension Plan
• Old Age Security
• Apprenticeship Incentive Grant.

https://www.servicecanada.gc.ca

Office: 1-800-622-6232

TTY: 1-800-926-9105

First and Third Thu 10 am-12 noon, 12:30 pm-3 pm

Service Canada - Service Canada, Grimsby Scheduled Outreach Site

Employment Help Centre, Village Inn Centre; 63 Main St W
Grimsby, ON
L3M 4H1

One-stop service delivery for a wide range of federal programs and services. Internet access and assistance locating and applying for government programs including:

• Employment Insurance
• Social Insurance Numbers
• Canada Pension Plan
• Old Age Security
• Apprenticeship Incentive Grant

https://www.servicecanada.gc.ca

Office: 1-800-622-6232

TTY: 1-800-926-9105

Second and Fourth Wed 9:30 am-12 noon, 12:30 pm-3 pm

Service Canada - Service Canada, Niagara Falls Service Canada Centre

6080 McLeod Rd
Niagara Falls, ON
L2G 7T4

One-stop service delivery for a wide range of federal programs and services. Internet access and assistance locating and applying for government programs including:

• Employment Insurance
• Social Insurance Numbers
• Canada Pension Plan
• Old Age Security
• Apprenticeship Incentive Grant

Passport receiving agents are also available at this location. Passport Receiving Agents can:

• accept standard passport applications in person
• take payment
• collect and validate supporting documents
• review applications for completeness
• send in applications for processing

https://www.servicecanada.gc.ca

Office: 1-800-622-6232

TTY: 1-800-926-9105

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4 pm

Service Canada - Service Canada, Port Colborne Scheduled Outreach Site

Port Cares, 92 Charlotte St
Port Colborne, ON
L3K 3E1

One-stop service delivery for a wide range of federal programs and services. Internet access and assistance locating and applying for government programs including:

• Employment Insurance
• Social Insurance Numbers
• Canada Pension Plan
• Old Age Security
• Apprenticeship Incentive Grant.

https://www.servicecanada.gc.ca

Office: 1-800-622-6232

TTY: 1-800-926-9105

Second and Fourth Tue 10 am-12 noon, 12:30 pm-3 pm

Service Canada - Service Canada, St Catharines Service Canada Centre

Henley Square Plaza, 395 Ontario St
Units E and F St Catharines, ON
L2N 7N6

One-stop service delivery for a wide range of federal programs and services. Internet access and assistance locating and applying for government programs including:

• Employment Insurance
• Social Insurance Numbers
• Canada Pension Plan
• Old Age Security
• Apprenticeship Incentive Grant.

Passport receiving agents are also available at this location. Passport Receiving Agents can:

• accept standard passport applications in person
• take payment
• collect and validate supporting documents
• review applications for completeness
• send in applications for processing

https://www.servicecanada.gc.ca

Office: 1-800-622-6232

TTY: 1-800-926-9105

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4 pm

Veteran Affairs Canada - Veterans Affairs Canada, Hamilton District Office

120 King St W
2nd Flr Hamilton, ON
L8P 4V2

Offers a wide variety of services for Canadian Veterans and their families. This includes:

• support and services related to physical and mental health and wellness
• support for income, emergency funding
• post-service training and education and employment assistance
• help at home, assistance with at-risk housing situations
• death and bereavement
• benefits and services for family, including survivors and caregivers
• history, memorials, medals, and decorations of those who served

https://www.veterans.gc.ca/

information@veterans.gc.ca

Toll Free: English 1-866-522-2122 * French 1-866-522-2022

TTY: 1-833-921-0071

Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4:30 pm

Wainfleet Lions Club

Lions Community Centre; 12166 Lakeshore Rd
Long Beach Wainfleet, ON
L0S 1V0

A service club that raises funds for LIONS INTERNATIONAL Projects including the blind, youth, diabetes and dialysis programs, sponsorship of leader dogs and community minor sports and scholarships.
May be able to help local individual's who request assistance.

Office: No public telephone number

Hours vary, Sep-Jun
Meetings: First, Third Wed 7 pm for dinner Meeting at the Wainfleet Lions Community Centre on Lakeshore Rd