Media Release: TBDSSAB recognizes Social Assistance Programs Day

March 5, 2026 – The District of Thunder Bay Social Services Administration Board (TBDSSAB) is celebrating Social Assistance Programs Day on March 5, 2026.

Multiple celebrations of the social work profession take place in March, including Social Work Month, Social Worker & Social Service Worker Week, and International Social Workers Day. TBDSSAB observes Social Assistance Programs Day during the first week of March to celebrate professionals from a variety of backgrounds who support the delivery of social assistance programs.

Since 1999, the delivery of provincial social assistance programs has been the responsibility of District Social Services Administration Boards (DSSABs) and Consolidated Municipal Service Managers (CMSMs). Though DSSABs and CMSMs are appointed service system managers for other provincial social services like community housing and child care, the Ontario Works program continues to be regulated by the Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS). TBDSSAB delivers Ontario Works, but all functions and guidelines for the program—including eligibility, payment amounts, etc—are legislated through the Ontario Works Act.

Ontario Works has undergone significant changes through a provincial alignment of responsibilities. In 2021, the province implemented a new centralized intake process. In 2025, employment supports started being offered through Employment Ontario rather than directly through OW providers with the Integrated Employment Services initiative. Throughout these changes, the role of Caseworkers has evolved to focus more on helping OW recipients address barriers to employment.

More information about this process is outlined in the attached “Social Assistance Programs: Impact Highlights” document.

In recognition of Social Assistance Programs Day, TBDSSAB extends our gratitude to our staff, Board, and community partners for the role you play in helping people achieve self-sufficiency.

Thank you to the staff who support the delivery of social assistance programs at TBDSSAB. Your compassion, strength, and attention to detail are a light in the darkness for the people we serve. Thank you for choosing a career that lifts others up. Thank you to our Board for your ongoing advocacy to the province for changes to policies that negatively impact individuals and families receiving social assistance. We appreciate your willingness to ask for change that will help OW recipients thrive, not just survive. And thank you to our community partners who support low-income individuals and families. Your programs and services make a positive impact in the lives of our service recipients each day. Thank you for making it possible for OW recipients to access resources and opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach.

We are grateful to be part of a community of human services professionals that are dedicated to addressing the needs of low-income individuals and families in our community. Thank you for all that you do.

Quotes:

“I am so thankful to all our social work professionals who uplift individuals and families in need. Your compassion, commitment, and tireless efforts make a meaningful difference in our communities every single day. Thank you for being a source of hope and support to so many.”
– Crystal Simeoni, Director Integrated Social Services, TBDSSAB

“As we celebrate Social Assistance Programs Day, we proudly recognize the TBDSSAB professionals whose dedication and professionalism strengthen our community every day. Their commitment to supporting individuals and families creates stability, dignity and opportunity, making a lasting positive impact across the District. Their work is greatly valued.”
– Ken Ranta, Chief Executive Officer, TBDSSAB

Attachment:

Background:

The District of Thunder Bay Social Services Administration Board (TBDSSAB) delivers Ontario Works for the District of Thunder Bay. Ontario Works is a provincial program that provides income support and case management. Our OW Caseworkers offer people the support or referrals they need to enter the workforce. We work closely with community partners to help our clients reach their personal and employment goals.