Denied assistance

A homeless teenager who could not live with either parent was denied assistance through Ontario Works and was not provided with anything in writing about how to appeal the decision. After Ombudsman staff made inquiries with a supervisor at Ontario Works, the teen’s mother confirmed that he was homeless and a cheque was prepared for rent and living costs so the teen could attend school. The teen thanked us for our assistance, and the supervisor apologized for the error made by the intake worker, and thanked our Office for our intervention, saying he was happy to have the Ombudsman’s oversight.