City of Hamilton, Healthy and Safe Communities Department, Social Services Division
Housing Emergency Fund
- Description
Helps Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) recipients, Ontario Works (OW) recipients, and people with low income maintain their existing housing or establish a new residence.
- ODSP and OW recipients can receive help with last month's rent, rent arrears, utility arrears.
- People with low income can receive help with utility and rent arrears.
- Eligibility
- Eligibility is determined by the following criteria: Approved applicants are eligible for a maximum amount of support based on household size in a 24 month period, see website for table. Accommodation costs do not exceed 95% of the household income. The applicant is establishing a residence for the first time or attempting to remain in their current housing, both within the geographic boundaries of the City of Hamilton. The applicant's circumstances meet a situation outlined in the application (such as being evicted, having a disconnection notice for utilities, moving to first time or to more affordable housing).
- Application Process
- The application can be filled out and submitted online, or in person: OW recipients at Access to Housing or Ontario Works offices Low-income and ODSP recipients at Hamilton Housing Help Center ODSP recipients (staying in emergency shelter) at Access to Housing office Indigenous community members at Hamilton Regional Indian Centre
- Documents Required
- Documentation of disconnection notice for utilities and proof of one month of income for the household.
- Office
- 905-546-4800
- Web Site
- https://www.hamilton.ca/people-programs/housing-shelter/housing-supports/housing-emergency-fund
- [email protected]
- Languages
- English
- Fees
- None
- Topic(s)
- Agency Information
- View Agency Profile
- Copyright
- Hamilton Public Library
- Last Verified On
- January 22, 2026
- Address
- 250 Main St E
Hamilton, ON, L8N 1H6Local office of the Ontario provincial support program Ontario Works. This location offers counter service and ongoing case management services.
Open in Google Maps - Hours of Operation
- Contact for information.
- Service Area(s)
- Hamilton
