Ontario Emergency Assistance (short-term money in a crisis)
Ontario Emergency Assistance (short-term money in a crisis) is a program run by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services that gives about $733 a month to people living in Ontario (not visitors) who face a crisis, such as being evicted or leaving abuse, and do not have enough money for basic needs. Checked on the official page on October 6, 2026.
About $733 a month
You likely qualify if: You live in Ontario; You are in a crisis or emergency; You lack money for food and housing; You are not on Ontario Works or ODSP.
Free. Never pay anyone to apply.
ApplySend to someone who needs thisChecked on October 6, 2026 on the official page
We last read this on October 6, 2026. That was a while ago, so please check their own website before you rely on it, and tell us below if something changed.
Short-term money from the Ontario government if you are in a crisis and do not have enough money for food and housing. A single person can get about $733 a month for food and shelter, more if you have children, for up to 48 days at first. It also includes prescription drug card benefits.
Who qualifies
People living in Ontario (not visitors) who face a crisis, such as being evicted or leaving abuse, and do not have enough money for basic needs. Not for people already on Ontario Works or ODSP.
You likely qualify if:
- You live in Ontario
- You are in a crisis or emergency
- You lack money for food and housing
- You are not on Ontario Works or ODSP
What to bring
- Details on housing costs, income and assets
- Bank account information for faster payment
- Proof of your status in Canada
Dates
The official page we read gives no date. Check it before you apply.
Something wrong? Tell us
We read all of this on their own website. If something has changed, tell us here. It takes 20 seconds, needs no account, and nothing is deleted: the old fact stays until a person checks yours.