Brief: Ontario Works and/or Ontario Disability Support Program Discretionary Benefits – Cooling Devices

As the frequency of extreme heat events occurs, the need for cooling devices increases.

Those without access to cool spaces during extreme heat events can be subjected to prolonged exposure. Such exposure can cause loss of internal temperature regulation which can lead to various negative health effects or, in some cases, death.

The impacts of extreme heat events disproportionately affect certain vulnerable populations, such as the elderly, low-income earners, and individuals with existing health vulnerabilities.

Members of these groups may be benefactors of Ontario Works (OW) or the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP). Recipients of OW or ODSP may be eligible to obtain a cooling device as a discretionary benefit.

The ability to do so, including eligibility requirements and other restrictions, is discussed in the following brief: click here to download.