A new report from Maytree reveals a 72% increase in homelessness among Ontario Works (OW) and Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) recipients since 2019, with over 30,000 individuals lacking stable housing. The report highlights that reliance on these programs is increasingly leading to homelessness, particularly for single adults who receive the lowest benefits. Despite a 20% increase in ODSP rates since 2022, the maximum benefits remain inadequate compared to rising rental costs. Maytree calls on the provincial government to address systemic poverty issues and improve income support and housing options.
