Jump in case load forecasted

The Ontario Works caseload in Hastings County is forecasted to increase by about 19% over the past year and into 2023.

This is predicted to be followed by eight per cent in 2023 – 2024.

In his report to the Human and Community Services Committee on Wednesday, Director Connor Dorey noted the Ministry of Community and Social Services shared its September 2022 Social Assistance Caseload Forecast from the provincial level with Consolidated Municipal Service Managers.

This social assistance forecast uses actual social assistance data and labour market trends to forecast future caseload levels.

Calculations assume current economic and policy conditions in predicting future levels, as well as incorporating labour market trends.

Dorey also reported to the committee that a major housing project is underway in Bancroft.
The Town of Bancroft has been working on an innovative project that will include library space and the creation of approximately 30 rental units on municipally owned property, known as the North Hastings Inspiration Place.

To support this project’s progress, the Town of Bancroft has expressed interest in applying for the Rapid Housing Initiative (RHI) offered through the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC).

Hastings County staff continue to work closely with representatives from the Town of Bancroft to support the municipality in the application

Dorey also reported that as of February 1, 2023, the Ontario Government has increased the amount of money ODSP recipients can earn, without any reduction of their monthly benefits.

Before the change, ODSP participants were permitted to earn $200 to supplement their ODSP benefits.

Each dollar earned in excess of $200 was subject to a 50% reduction of benefits.

With the change, ODSP recipients are allowed to earn and keep up to $1000 per month.

Anything in excess of $1000 will be subject to a 75% reduction.

The County of Hastings does not administer the ODSP program, and these changes have no impact on the Ontario Works program.

The Ministry shared its September 2022 Social Assistance Caseload Forecast from the provincial level with Consolidated Municipal Service Managers. This social assistance forecast uses actual social assistance data and labour market trends to forecast future caseload levels.

Calculations assume current economic and policy conditions in predicting future levels, as well as incorporating labour market trends.

The Ontario Works caseload in Hastings County is forecasted to increase by about 19% in 2022-23.

Hastings County Ontario Works Average Monthly Caseload Forecast Fiscal Year: