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Immediate Needs


Overview: October 1, 2012

Effective: October 01, 2012

At the beginning of the Stage 1 application process, staff will be proactive in determining whether an applicant has an immediate need for food, shelter or urgent medical attention.

If it is determined that an applicant has an immediate need, their eligibility will be determined on an urgent basis. An applicant will be assessed as to whether they are exempt from the requirement to complete a work search.  An applicant who is exempt from this requirement will proceed directly to Stage 2 of the application process.

Those applicants with an immediate need who are not exempt from the requirement to complete a work search will proceed directly to Stage 2 of the application process and be assessed for hardship assistance.  Recipients assessed as eligible for Hardship Assistance – Immediate Needs – Work Search Required will receive hardship assistance while they complete either a three- or five-week work search.

An assessment for an immediate need must be conducted for applicants applying for assistance under the Employment and Assistance Regulation or Employment and Assistance for Persons with Disabilities Regulation.