Schreiner pens open letter to Ford, calling on government to double ODSP rates immediately

June 13, 2022

TORONTO — Ontario Greens Leader Mike Schreiner penned an open letter to Premier Ford this afternoon, calling on his government to double Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) rates immediately.

View Open Letter.

TORONTO– Ontario Greens Leader Mike Schreiner penned an open letter to Premier Ford this afternoon, calling on his government to double Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) rates immediately.

“The issue of affordability is top of mind for many Ontarians right now,” Schreiner wrote. “And people with disabilities are feeling the effects of the cost of living crisis the most intensely.”

Schreiner noted that while the cost of everything, including food, shelter and transportation, continues to increase, ODSP rates have remained flat at an unlivable $1,169/month.

“Premier, unfortunately the 5% ODSP increase you promised last month during the campaign is wholly insufficient to address the challenges people on ODSP are facing,” wrote Schreiner.

“That is why I am calling on your government to immediately double ODSP rates and tie all future increases to inflation.”

“People on ODSP shouldn’t have to choose between putting food on the table or keeping a roof over their head.”

Schreiner also pointed out that investing in lifting people out of poverty is the fiscally responsible thing to do as well as the right thing to do, citing that poverty costs Ontario up to $33 billion a year, primarily due to increased health and justice system expenses.

“With the budget still yet to be passed, this is your opportunity to address the severe financial challenges many Ontarians with disabilities are currently facing,” Schreiner closed.

“It’s time to start treating people with disabilities with the dignity and respect they deserve.”

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