Ontario Disability Support Program

About Ontario Disability Support Program

The Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) is a government service located in downtown London on York Street that provides income support and disability-related benefits to eligible individuals and their family members. The program is designed to assist those with disabilities who are in financial need by providing money to help cover essential living expenses, such as food and rent. The program offers a variety of supports tailored to a person's specific situation. These include health benefits for prescription drugs and vision care, as well as additional funds for specific needs like transportation to medical appointments. ODSP also provides board and lodge amounts for individuals and families, and specific amounts for couples where both people have disabilities. Furthermore, it provides funding for services delivered by specialized care residences or long-term care homes. The program describes its approach as providing support based on individual financial and medical circumstances. It notes that the Canada Disability Benefit is exempt as income for social assistance, meaning it does not affect a recipient's eligibility for or payment amount from ODSP. For healthcare professionals, the program provides resources for completing medical review and disability determination packages. Prospective clients can apply for support online, over the phone via a toll-free line, or in-person by booking an appointment at a local office. The application process can take several months; however, individuals who lack sufficient funds to support themselves during the review period may apply for Ontario Works and ODSP simultaneously to receive immediate financial assistance while their application is being assessed.