Ontario Government Ends Social Assistance For People Living In Canada Illegally

The Ontario Government is strengthening the rules for Ontario’s social assistance programs to ensure that only people living legally in Canada can receive financial assistance from Ontario Works or the Ontario Disability Support Program, announced on Thursday.

Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawrtha MPP. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

Effective immediately, the Provincial government says these regulations will protect taxpayer dollars and ensure that Ontario’s social assistance programs focus on supporting only families and individuals facing financial hardship who are legally authorized to live in Canada.

“Our government will always be there for those that need it most, but taxpayer-funded social assistance should not go to people living in Canada illegally,” said Michael Parsa, Minister of Children, Community and Social Services. “These changes will protect taxpayer dollars and ensure these programs are there for the people who they were intended to support.”

The province has amended regulations under the Ontario Works Act, 1997, and the Ontario Disability Support Program Act, 1997, to clarify who is eligible for social assistance.

Under the updated rules, the following individuals are not eligible for social assistance:

• Individuals who are in Canada illegally; and

• Individuals authorized to remain in Canada on a temporary basis, for example, those here with student visas, work permits or as visitors and tourists.

These changes take effect immediately to prevent unauthorized individuals from receiving these financial supports, ensuring Ontario’s government-funded social assistance programs are reserved for people who meet the province’s eligibility requirements.

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Peterborough Museum and Archives Receives Federal Grant For National Travelling Exhibition

The Peterborough Museum and Archives (PMA) has been awarded a $6,400 grant by the Department of Canadian Heritage through the Museums Assistance Program Exhibition Circulation Fund.

File photo.

The Museums Assistance Program Exhibition Circulation Fund helps museums and heritage organizations increase access to Canadian heritage by supporting travelling exhibitions. 

The grant supports bringing the upcoming temporary exhibition ‘Lost Liberties – The War Measures Act,’ which runs until Sept. 13 at the PMA.

The exhibit examines the impact of Canada's use of emergency powers on civil liberties and the lives of Canadians. Through historical research, artifacts, personal stories, and educational programming, the exhibition encourages visitors to explore the balance between national security and individual rights during periods of crisis.  

The exhibition aims to reach diverse audiences and provide opportunities for reflection on the historical consequences of emergency legislation, including the human experiences behind these significant national events.  

“I am pleased to see the Peterborough Museum and Archives receive this support through the federal government's Museums Assistance Program," said Emma Harrison, Member of Parliament for the riding of Peterborough. "Investments like this help bring important exhibitions such as “Lost Liberties – The War Measures Act” to our community, giving residents the opportunity to reflect on pivotal moments in Canada’s history. I am grateful that residents of Peterborough will have access to this important experience, and I encourage everyone to take the time to visit!”  

“We are grateful to the Department of Canadian Heritage for its support in bringing important exhibitions like “Lost Liberties – The War Measures Act” to Peterborough,” said Community Services Co-Chairs Alex Bierk and Lesley Parnell. “Museums play a vital role in preserving and sharing our collective history, and this exhibit explores an important and complex part of Canada's past. By encouraging reflection and dialogue about civil liberties, democratic values and the impact of government decisions during times of crisis, this exhibition will offer meaningful learning opportunities for visitors of all ages.” 

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City Receives Receives Second Funding Installment After Completing Housing Accelerator Fund Action Plan

The City of Peterborough has completed all seven initiatives under its Housing Accelerator Fund (HAF) Action Plan and has received a second funding installment of $2.67 million from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation, announced on Tuesday.

Photo courtesy of The City of Peterborough.

The City has received a total of approximately $5.3 million through the federal program, which supports municipalities in creating more housing opportunities by improving planning processes, removing barriers to development and creating healthy, walkable communities.

“The City shares the Government of Canada's goal of increasing the supply and range of housing options available in our community,” said Mayor Jeff Leal. “Through the Housing Accelerator Fund, we've modernized our planning policies, streamlined development approvals and improved how we deliver services. These changes will help support the construction of more homes, including affordable housing, and position Peterborough for future growth.”

The funding recognizes the City’s work to make it easier and faster to build housing, while expanding housing options and supporting the development of more affordable homes.

“The Housing Accelerator Fund rewards local governments for pursuing changes that cut red tape and build more homes faster. HAF encourages local solutions that create more housing options by driving innovation, removing barriers and incentivizing updates to planning systems,” said Emma Harrison, Peterborough-Kawartha MP. “Peterborough proposed an ambitious Housing Action Plan which included rezoning to encourage the creation of missing middle housing, leveraging surplus and underused public land for housing and embracing technology to streamline permitting processes. The City recently received its second HAF installment of nearly $2.7 million, reflecting the successful implementation of its plan.”

The City’s completed initiatives include:

• Introducing a city-wide Community Planning Permit By-law to replace the City’s 1972 Comprehensive Zoning By-law and make the development approvals process more efficient;

• Reducing or removing residential parking requirements to support more housing options;

• Allowing up to four residential units on eligible properties and encouraging missing middle housing, such as townhomes and small apartment buildings;

• Launching a public e-permitting portal to make it easier and more efficient to submit and track development applications;

• Improving building application processes to support new construction methods and help move housing projects forward more quickly;

• Making City-owned land available to support housing development and partnerships that create affordable housing; and

• Updating the Community Improvement Plan to provide stronger incentives for affordable housing projects.

On June 29, Peterborough City Council approved the city-wide Community Planning Permit By-law, completing the final milestone in the City’s Action Plan within the required timeline.

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Ontario Government Invests Over $116,000 For Local Senior Support

Six local organizations in the Peterborough-Kawartha area have received a combined total of $116,196 to help local seniors stay active, safe and socially connected within their communities.

The Ontario government is investing up to $7 million for more than 320 Seniors Community Grants across the province this year, helping seniors stay fit, active, healthy, and socially connected close to home. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The funding is through the Ontario government’s Seniors Community Grants program.

The funding recipients in Peterborough-Kawartha are:

The City of Peterborough: $24,998

• Project: Be Prepared (Third Revision)

• Overview: Updates materials for the Be Prepared program to equip seniors with clear, practical guidance to recognize and respond to frauds, scams, severe weather events, and intimate partner or family violence, while strengthening emergency preparedness

Alzheimer Society of Peterborough Kawartha Lakes Northumberland and Haliburton: $24,251

• Project: The Social and Night Out Program

• Overview: Provides an inclusive environment where individuals living with dementia, caregivers, and families can socialize, share meals, dance, and build lasting connections in a safe, welcoming atmosphere

Mapleridge Recreation Centre (Senior Citizens Association of Peterborough): $24,541

• Project: Connected Communities: Seniors' Digital Literacy Program

• Overview: Offers hands-on workshops using computers, tablets, and smart boards to build seniors' confidence in using technology safely, covering scam prevention, safe use of AI tools, and accessing online services

Community Care Peterborough: $24,500

• Project: Senior Connectors – Phase 2: Peer Navigation & Follow-Up

• Overview: Supports trained senior volunteers hosting community kiosks to help older adults across the City and County of Peterborough access vital local services, reducing isolation and promoting independence

Douro-Dummer Township Public Library Board: $17,906

• Project: The Douro-Dummer Public Library Learning Commons Phase II

• Overview: Enhances the community hub's programming, user experience, and partnership opportunities, providing a gathering space for rural seniors and community members of all ages

St. Joseph's at Fleming: $2,100

• Project: Community Connections for Seniors

• Overview: Provides monthly, supervised community outings with accessible transportation for long-term care residents to enjoy cultural and recreational experiences, helping them remain engaged in the broader community

“Seniors have built the vibrant, close-knit communities we enjoy today, and ensuring they have access to programs that keep them active, safe, and connected is a top priority,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “Whether it's preventing online scams, supporting those living with dementia, or helping long-term care residents get out into the community, these six local projects will make a real, tangible difference in the everyday lives of older adults right across our region.”

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Ontario Government Gives Peterborough Over $1.6 Million Through the Building Faster Fund After Reaching Housing Targets

The Ontario Government has rewarded the City of Peterborough with $1,653,397, which provides funding to municipalities that achieve at least 80 per cent of their provincially designated housing targets, announced at City Hall on Wednesday.

City Staff and local politicans with Rob Flack (middle) recieving the $1.6 million for reaching 80 per cent of Peterborough’s housing targets. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The funding came through the third round of the Building Faster Fund.

Last year, Peterborough broke ground on 545 new homes, exceeding its annual target by 16 per cent. The funding will help the City of Peterborough build more homes and community infrastructure while advancing the province’s plan to protect Ontario by investing in projects that support economic growth and keep workers on the job according to Rob Flack, Minister of Municipal Affairs and Housing.

“Our government is relentlessly focused on creating the conditions municipalities need to meet the growing demand for more homes,” he said. “That is why we have introduced bold legislative changes and introduced measures such as the Development Charge Reduction Program. We appreciate partners like Peterborough who are committed to working alongside us.”

Announced in August 2023, the Building Faster Fund is a three-year, up to $1.2 billion program that helps municipalities build more homes faster. The fund rewards municipalities that make significant progress toward their housing targets by providing funding for the infrastructure needed to support new housing and growing communities.

“The City of Peterborough is taking action to support housing construction by reducing development charges and streamlining our development approvals process through the implementation of a Community Planning Permit System,” said Jeff Leal, Mayor of Peterborough. Together, we're creating the conditions for builders to create homes and jobs in our community.”

Flack added that the Ontario Government is also helping to speed up the construction of new homes and infrastructure by streamlining development processes and reducing unnecessary costs, most recently through the Building Homes and Improving Transportation Infrastructure Act, 2026 and the HST Relief Implementation Act (Residential Property Rebates), 2026.

As part of the up to $8.8 billion Canada-Ontario Partnership to Build, Ontario has introduced the Development Charge Reduction Program, which will provide funding for housing-enabling infrastructure projects over a 10-year period. Funding will be prioritized for municipalities that reduce and maintain reductions on development charges.

The agreement also supports removing HST on new homes from April 1, 2026, to March 31, 2027, which will save homebuyers up to $130,000 on the cost of a new home. Collectively, these measures help to enhance affordability, support builders as they get shovels in the ground on new homes and keep workers on the job.

“We know that increasing the housing supply is the best way to make life more affordable for seniors and young families in Peterborough,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “Exceeding our provincial targets means our community has earned a $1.65 million reward. This funding goes straight into building the foundation—the pipes, roads, and local services—needed to keep our building momentum going.”

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Ontario Government Invests $56 Million to Fleming College For Post-Secondary Education Expansion

To protect students’ access to education and successful careers, the Ontario Government has invested $56 million into Fleming College announced on Friday.

Photo courtesy of Dave Smith.

This investment is part of the government’s new funding model, which will bring an additional $6.4 billion to universities, colleges and Indigenous Institutes across the province to build long-term sustainability in the sector, according to Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP.

“This historic $56 million investment represents a vital commitment to the future of our region,” he said. “By delivering this targeted support directly to Fleming College, our government is ensuring that local students can continue to access world-class education right here at home. This funding provides the long-term stability needed to keep our postsecondary sector strong, while empowering the next generation with the practical skills required for rewarding, high-demand careers.”

“Fleming College plays a critical role in preparing the next generation of skilled workers, innovators, and community leaders” said Laurie Scott, Haliburton – Kawartha Lakes – Brock MPP. “This investment will help ensure students continue to benefit from high-quality education and hands-on training while strengthening the college’s long-term sustainability. By supporting Fleming today, we are helping build a stronger workforce, stronger communities, and greater opportunities for future generations to launch rewarding careers right here in Ontario.”

The investment helps ensure that Fleming College can keep preparing students for rewarding, in-demand careers that meet labour market demands, spanning several generations. Operating funding for the sector will increase by 30 per cent to $7 billion in fall 2026, with a focus on delivering programs that align with student demand as well as regional and provincial labour-market demands. The model also includes specialized funding for small, rural, northern and French institutions, so that students in all corners of the province have access to a world-class education.

According to the Ontario Government, through this new model, the government is investing $1.7 billion to fund 70,000 in-demand seats across the province. This investment will expand enrollment in health care, skilled trades, teaching and STEM programs to build the highly skilled workforce businesses and communities depend on. A call for proposals to access this funding will launch this spring, with seats opening in fall 2026.

“We are grateful to the Government of Ontario for this significant $14 million average annual investment in Fleming College, provided over the next four years,” said Dr. Theresa Knott, Interim President, Fleming College. “This funding will provide important stability for the College as we continue to focus on our students and their success. By investing in career-focused education and training, the province is helping ensure Fleming graduates are prepared with the skills they need to succeed in rewarding, in-demand careers and contribute to the communities and industries that depend on them.”

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Trent University Receives Investment of $57.7 Million From Ontario Government Over Four Years

To help launch students’ successful careers by providing access to postsecondary education, the Ontario Government has invested $57.7 million over four years at Trent University.

Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP (left) with Dr. Cathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor (right) during a press conference in March. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

This investment is part of the government’s new funding model, which will bring an additional $6.4 billion to universities, colleges and Indigenous Institutes across the province to build long-term sustainability in the sector, according to Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP.

“Investing in Trent University is a direct investment in the future of Peterborough and the Kawarthas,” he said. “This new funding model is a huge win for our community. It gives Trent the stability it needs to keep delivering top-tier programs in high-demand fields like healthcare and technology. For local families, it means our young people can get a world-class education right here in their own backyard, graduate with the skills our local workforce needs, and step straight into good-paying careers without having to look outside our region.”

As stated in a press release, funding for Trent University can help prepare students for rewarding, in-demand careers that meet labour market demands, spanning several generations. Operating funding for the sector will increase by 30 per cent to $7 billion in the fall with a focus on delivering programs that align with student demand as well as regional and provincial labour market demands.

The model also includes specialized funding for small, rural, northern and French institutions, so that students in all corners of the province have access to a world-class education. Through this, the government is investing $1.7 billion to fund 70,000 in-demand seats across the province. This investment will expand enrollment in health care, skilled trades, teaching and STEM programs to build the highly skilled workforce businesses and communities depend on. A call for proposals to access this funding will launch this spring, with seats opening in the fall.

“Trent is preparing the highly qualified graduates that become the skilled professionals and leaders Ontario needs. Our students are working alongside leading experts and partners to address challenges across a variety of sectors, including health care, education, business and artificial intelligence,” said Dr. Cathy Bruce, Trent president and vice-chancellor. “This funding provides greater stability for long-term planning and helps ensure we continue delivering exceptional teaching, research and student experiences that contribute to healthy and sustainable communities here in Ontario.”

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Ontario Government Invests $6.4 Million to Build New School Addition In Buckhorn

The Ontario Government has invested $6.4 million in a new addition at Buckhorn Public School to create more student and childcare spaces in a growing community, announced on Monday.

Photo courtesy of Dave Smith.

This project plans to give 98 new elementary student spaces and 49 new licensed childcare spaces for local families in the Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board, according to Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP.

“This investment to expand Buckhorn Public School is a major milestone for local families and a vital step forward for Trent Lakes and the surrounding area,” he said. “I am absolutely thrilled to see this project advance, as it directly addresses the growing demand for child care and modern student spaces throughout our neighbouring communities. By expanding this facility, we are ensuring that youth across the region have access to a safe, up-to-date, and fully equipped learning environment right close to home for years to come.”

The investment is part of the provincial government’s plan to ensure students have access to modern classrooms, with $1.6 billion allocated to 79 school construction projects across Ontario.

The Capital Priorities program supports the construction of new schools, permanent additions, renovations and school purchases. According to a press release, this year’s funding will support a combination of new school builds, expansions and retrofits across the province and is part of Ontario’s commitment to provide more than $22 billion over 10 years for new school construction, renewal and improvements.

“We want schools to be at the heart of the communities they serve, from preschool to graduation. We extend our sincere thanks to the provincial government for this capital investment that makes it possible to better support our students here at Buckhorn Public School,” said Paul Brown, Chairperson of the Board, Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board. “We are very excited for the opportunity to enhance this school, which we know will benefit our students and families in the Buckhorn school community for many years to come.”

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Ontario Government Invests Over $260,000 to Support Rural Economic Development In Peterborough-Kawartha

To help protect rural Ontario, the provincial government has invested $260,305.50 to support economic growth and long-term prosperity in Peterborough-Kawartha, announced at the Innovation Cluster on Monday.

Through the first intake of the ROD program, the province is investing over $5.5 million in 116 projects across rural Ontario. Photo by David Tuan Bui.

The funding is through the Rural Ontario Development (ROD) program, a $20 million investment by the province to strengthen local economies, support rural workers, and assist communities in planning for long-term growth according to Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP.

“Our rural communities are the backbone of Ontario’s economy, and this investment ensures that Peterborough-Kawartha has the resources to thrive for generations to come,” he said. “By backing localized initiatives like transportation studies, business plans, and innovation hubs, we are breaking down barriers to growth and equipping our fantastic local entrepreneurs with the tools they need to compete on a wider scale.”

Through the first intake of the ROD program, the province is supporting the following projects in Peterborough-Kawartha:

• $145,000 for the Innovation Cluster for their Rural Innovation Centre Project

• $50,000 to the City of Peterborough for the Future Ready Peterborough: Economic Development Strategy

• $30,000 for Community Care Peterborough for the Rural Peterborough County Transportation Feasibility Study

• $20,000 for the County of Peterborough for the Trade-Ready: Equipping Rural Entrepreneurs to compete Beyond the Region project

• $15,308.50 for Farms at Work for the Peterborough Community Farm Business Plan

“The Rural Ontario Development program demonstrates our government’s commitment to supporting small, rural and northern communities across Ontario,” said Lisa Thompson, Minister of Rural Affairs. “Through investments that support local priorities and economic development opportunities, we are helping rural communities build strong foundations for long-term success.”

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Ontario Government Investing Over $2 Million to Connect 4,762 People to Primary Care In Peterborough-Kawartha

The Ontario Government has invested over $2,019,200 this year to connect up to 4,762 people in Peterborough City and County to a family doctor or primary care provider by 2029.

Photo courtesy of Dave Smith.

“This investment to enhance local healthcare access showcases our government's absolute commitment to connecting everyone in our region to primary care,” said Dave Smith, Peterborough-Kawartha MPP. “By delivering this vital funding directly to our local health teams, we are ensuring that thousands of unattached patients across Peterborough City and County will have a reliable, high-quality place to turn for medical care closer to home. This funding will significantly impact the lives of local families and relieve pressure on our broader healthcare system.”

Peterborough Family Health Team (PFHT), in partnership with the 360 Nurse Practitioner Clinic, the Peterborough Community Health Centre, and the Peterborough Newcomer Health Clinic, is establishing a process for accepting new patients and will communicate it to the local community.

PFHT was funded through the latest call for proposals under the Primary Care Action Plan, with all 124 teams receiving funding expected to connect another 500,000 patients to primary care across Ontario. Each team has established a plan to attach a high proportion of unattached people in their community, including those on the Health Care Connect waitlist.

In the 2026 Budget, the province is also increasing overall funding for the plan to $3.4 billion between 2025 and 2029.

“This announcement represents a major investment in primary care for our community,” said Duff Sprague, CEO of the Peterborough Family Health Team. “Along with increased funding for the PFHT Connect Clinic, the Government is also introducing system changes that will allow patients to be attached directly to the Peterborough Family Health Team.”

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