The Ontario government is offering a one-time financial payment to parents while schools and childcare centres remain closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
We have provided you with some Q&As related to this new initiative:
What is the Support for Families initiative?
The new Support for Families initiative offers a one-time payment of $200 per child 0 to 12 years of age, and $250 for those 0 to 21 years of age with special needs.
Who is eligible?
There is no income cap on this program. All parents are eligible if you have a child who is:
- Aged 0 to 12 ($200 per child)
- Aged 0 to 21 with special needs ($250 per child)
Before you apply, please note:
- only one parent can apply for each child
- the parent who applies should have custody of the child
How do I access the payment?
If you have more than one child, you must submit one application per child.
To complete the application, you will need:
- the name of your child’s school and school board (if applicable)
- your child’s date of birth
- your banking information
- a valid email address
Please note: Parents already receiving Support for Parents payments through direct deposit will be automatically eligible for this financial support and do not need to submit a new application.
How will I get the payment?
You will get the payment through direct deposit.
If you are unable to provide banking information and require a cheque, you may submit a special request for one. Simply indicate this on the application.
Please note that processing cheques may take up to several months from the date you apply, so if you have banking information, it is better to use that.
Where can I find resources to help my children learn at home?
If you have school-aged children, the Government of Ontario has put together a list of resources to help them learn at home during the pandemic. You can access the resources here: https://www.ontario.ca/page/learn-at-home. There is also information in other languages about the Learn at Home initiative at the bottom of that page.
