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Social assistance rates are way below the poverty line, and it has remained
virtually unchanged since 1995 where Mike Harris government slashed
assistant rate by almost 22%. People on social assistance are now about 40%
to 50% worse off than those in 1995. In addition, the McGuinty government
has decided to restrict its $250 special diet allowance to social assistance
recipients with a medically verified need for extra money for special diet.
According to the Toronto Star, those with “ineligible” aliments (such as
cardiovascular disease and impaired glucose tolerance) or hungry kids or no
cash left when the rent is paid will be cut off. Thousands of recipients
will be affected by these changes.
Jane-Finch community has had one of the highest rates of application as well
as denial of special diet allowance. Social assistance rates need to be increased
to the above poverty line and the Special Diet Allowance restored immediately.
What can we do to restore the Special Diet Allowance?
Childcare and TTC tickets are available. Dinner will be served.
Organized by Jane Finch Action Against Poverty (JFAAP) in partnership with Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) and Ontario Coalition Against Poverty (OCAP).
For more information, email or leave us a voicemail at 416-760-2677.
