Schreiner calls on the Premier to Raise the Rates

TORONTO — Mike Schreiner released the following statement for Hunger Action Month:

“Hunger Action Month is a reminder of the growing food insecurity problem in Ontario.

I’m repeating my calls to the Premier to double the rates for Ontario Works (OW) and the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) to address food insecurity in the province.

We know that Ontarians with disabilities and on social assistance disproportionately face food security challenges.

And they have borne a disproportionate burden of the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet OW and ODSP rates have not increased.

People with disabilities have been begging for help during COVID, struggling to survive on a maximum of $1,169 a month.

Ontarians shouldn’t have to choose between paying their rent or putting food on the table.

Food insecurity has a huge impact on mental and physical health. Access to food is a fundamental human right.

It’s time for the Premier to do the right thing by raising the rates and treating Ontarians on social assistance and with disabilities with the support and dignity they deserve.”