Region of Waterloo Ontario Works – Waterloo, ON

Social Assistance and Employment Support

Regional Social Services

The Ontario Works office at 99 Regina Street South is administered by the Region of Waterloo Community Services department. This facility sits directly adjacent to Waterloo City Hall but operates under the regional tier of government, which is responsible for public health, housing, and social services across Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge. This specific office serves as a “Welcome Space” and intake centre for residents of Waterloo facing financial hardship, providing a safety net and resources to foster independence.

Programs and Benefits

The primary mandate of this office is to deliver the provincial Ontario Works program.

• Financial Assistance: Eligible clients receive funds to cover basic needs such as food and shelter (Basic Needs and Shelter Allowance). Emergency assistance is also available for those in crisis situations (e.g., pending eviction, disaster).
• Employment Support: The office provides access to employment workshops, job coaching, and training programs designed to help recipients return to the workforce.
• Discretionary Benefits: Low-income residents may apply for additional health-related or non-health-related discretionary benefits, such as coverage for funeral expenses or essential dental care.

Service Delivery Model

The 99 Regina Street location operates as a multi-service hub.

• Welcome Spaces: These areas allow residents to access computers, phones, and printers for job searching or housing applications. Staff are available to assist with online applications for social assistance.
• Public Health: The building often co-locates with Public Health services, offering sexual health clinics or dental clinics for eligible seniors and children (depending on current regional scheduling).

Access and Location

Situated in the uptown core, the office is easily accessible by public transit. It features wheelchair-accessible entrances and private interview rooms for sensitive discussions with caseworkers. Clients are encouraged to use the online “MyBenefits” portal for managing their files, but in-person support remains a core pillar of the service.