Get help accessing benefits, essential supports and identification at ID and Benefits Access Hubs

Whitby, Ontario – Residents living with low income are encouraged to visit an ID and Benefits Access Hub this spring for help accessing a variety of government supports and services that can help.

Why: ID and Benefits Access Hubs can help residents:

• Learn about eligible benefits; there are more than 40 benefits in Ontario that can help boost your income.
• Apply for the Canada Disability Benefit and/or Canadian Dental Care Plan with a Service Canada representative on site at the Hub.
• Get or replace government identification (ID) for free, such as a Social Insurance Number (SIN), Birth Certificate (free for eligible individuals with low income) and Health Card. Services will also be available to obtain or renew Photo ID and Driver’s Licenses (fees may apply).
• Open a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) and apply for the Canada Learning Bond benefit from the Government of Canada; if eligible, you could receive up to $2,000 per child for free into a RESP to save for their post-secondary education.
• Get help accessing food supports. Feed The Need in Durham is preparing 20 food packages per Hub location, to share with those who visit a Hub and require this support.
• Discover services offered by Durham Region Health Department, Social Services and Durham Region Transit, as well as helpful services offered by community partners.
• At select locations, individuals with low or no income and simple tax situations can get help filing taxes (an appointment is required for tax filing support).

When and where:

• April 14: Pickering Public Library, 1 The Esplanade South, Pickering, from 1 to 6 p.m.
• April 22: Brock Community Health Centre, 39 Cameron Street West, Cannington, from 1 to 6:30 p.m.
• April 29: Ajax Public Library, 55 Harwood Avenue South, Ajax, from 1 to 6 p.m.
• April 30: Oshawa Public Libraries - McLaughlin Branch, 65 Debwewin Miikan, Oshawa, from 1 to 6 p.m.
• May 6: Clarington Library, Museums & Archives - Bowmanville Library, 163 Church Street, Bowmanville, from 1 to 6 p.m.
• May 14: Whitby Public Library, 405 Dundas Street West, Whitby, from 1 to 6 p.m.

Note: For more information and what to bring when you visit an ID and Benefits Access Hub, visit durham.ca/MobileBenefitsHub.

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