Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) and Ontario Works (OW) recipients in Toronto are automatically eligible for the Welcome Policy recreation fee subsidy, providing free access to registered programs, pools, fitness centres, and ice rinks. OW recipients are pre-approved. Additional benefits include the TTC Monthly Pass Discount Program, free dental and vision care for children, and prescription drug coverage.
Free: All City of Toronto recreation centres and community facilities · Season: year-round
Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) and Ontario Works (OW) recipients in Toronto have access to an extraordinary range of benefits that extend far beyond basic income support. In addition to the Welcome Policy's free recreation access, eligible individuals receive reduced-cost transit through the TTC Monthly Pass Discount Program, free dental and vision care for children, prescription drug coverage, and various other supports. For low-income Toronto residents, these programs collectively provide access to health, recreation, and mobility services that would otherwise be financially out of reach.
What to Expect
ODSP and OW are Ontario's two main social assistance programs. In Toronto, recipients of both programs are automatically eligible for the City of Toronto's Welcome Policy, which provides free access to registered recreation programs, facility memberships, pool passes, and ice rink access at all City-operated community centres.
Ontario Works (OW) Recipients: Are pre-approved for the Welcome Policy. No separate application is required — simply contact your OW caseworker to activate your recreation benefits. Your caseworker will provide you with the necessary documentation or direct you to the appropriate recreation centre.
ODSP Recipients: Are eligible for the Welcome Policy but must apply using their ODSP Member ID. The application can be completed online at toronto.ca/welcome-policy or in person at any recreation centre.
Recreation Benefits
Through the Welcome Policy, ODSP and OW recipients receive:
- Free registered programs (swimming lessons, fitness classes, sports leagues, arts programs)
- Free summer camp registration for children
- Free facility memberships and multi-use passes
- Free pool access (indoor and outdoor pools)
- Free ice rink access (public skating and shinny hockey)
- Free gymnasium access
- Free community centre programming
These benefits cover all eligible family members in the same household, meaning children of ODSP and OW recipients can participate in swimming lessons, summer camps, and sports leagues at no cost.
TTC Monthly Pass Discount Program
In addition to recreation benefits, eligible ODSP and OW recipients can access reduced-cost TTC monthly passes through the Transit Pass Discount Program. This program provides:
- Reduced-cost monthly adult passes
- Reduced-cost monthly senior passes (for eligible seniors)
- Reduced-cost monthly student passes (for eligible students)
The discount rate varies and is set by the City of Toronto in partnership with the TTC. Check the current rates at toronto.ca or by contacting your caseworker. The pass is loaded on a PRESTO card and can be used for unlimited travel on the TTC's entire network.
Additional Benefits
ODSP and OW recipients in Toronto also receive:
- **Prescription drug coverage:** Most prescription medications are covered through the Ontario Drug Benefit program
- **Dental care for children:** Free dental services for children under 18, including checkups, cleanings, and treatments
- **Vision care for children:** Free eye exams and glasses for children under 18
- **Housing supports:** Assistance with rent, utilities, and housing stability
- **Employment supports:** Training, education, and job search assistance (OW)
- **Disability supports:** Assistive devices, mobility aids, and specialized services (ODSP)
How to Access Benefits
1. Contact Your Caseworker: OW recipients should start by contacting their assigned caseworker, who will facilitate Welcome Policy access and provide information on other benefits.
2. Visit a Recreation Centre: Take your OW or ODSP documentation to any City-operated recreation centre. Staff are trained to process Welcome Policy applications discreetly.
3. Apply Online: The Welcome Policy application is available at toronto.ca/welcome-policy. ODSP recipients will need their Member ID.
4. TTC Discount Program: Apply through the TTC's website or in person at select locations. Your caseworker can provide guidance.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring: Registration for summer camps and spring recreation programs opens. The Welcome Policy covers camp fees, making summer planning accessible.
Summer: Summer camps operate across the city. Outdoor pools and splash pads are free to access (no Welcome Policy required for splash pads). The TTC discount pass makes summer travel affordable.
Fall: Fall program registration opens. Swimming lessons, fitness classes, and sports leagues begin new sessions.
Winter: Indoor recreation dominates — swimming, fitness, and ice skating. The Welcome Policy covers all ice rink access, including public skating at Nathan Phillips Square.
How to Get There
All City of Toronto recreation centres and TTC service centres are accessible by public transit. The TTC discount program makes transit itself affordable for eligible recipients.
Accessibility
All City recreation facilities and TTC services are wheelchair accessible. The Welcome Policy covers adapted and accessible programming. ODSP recipients with specific disability-related needs should discuss accommodations with their caseworker and recreation facility staff.
Practical Tips for Recipients
- Ontario Works recipients are pre-approved for the Welcome Policy — your caseworker is your first point of contact
- The Welcome Policy covers your entire household — children can participate in programs at no cost
- Apply for the TTC discount pass as soon as possible to maximize savings
- Recreation program registration fills quickly — register as soon as the registration period opens
- Keep your OW or ODSP documentation current to maintain eligibility
- Call 311 for general information about City services and benefits
- The Welcome Policy and TTC discount are confidential — your privacy is protected
Visitor tip
OW recipients are pre-approved for Welcome Policy — contact your caseworker. ODSP recipients apply with their Member ID at any recreation centre or online. The TTC discount program provides reduced-cost monthly passes for eligible ODSP/OW recipients. Check toronto.ca for current discount rates.