City now permanently offers health benefits for low-income residents

Following the approval of Kingston City Council for the permanent continuation of the program, low-income residents can continue to apply for health benefits through the City.

The benefits are available through the City of Kingston’s My Kingston – Health Benefits Program, which offers funding for low-income residents for dental care, vision care, and prescription medication. Applications for the program are being accepted now.

“We know residents are looking for these kinds of health benefits. We are excited to make this now-permanent program available to residents through My Kingston, which offers access to a variety of municipal discounts and supports using one application,” said Laura Rabbie, Manager of Social Services for the City of Kingston.

Council approved the permanent continuation of the program on Tuesday, Oct. 15, 2019. The program aims to help those in low-income households, particularly those who are working and may not be covered by provincial programs. It offers a maximum of $600 for eligible individuals, and $800 for families to be used towards dental, vision, or prescription costs. Working residents with low income who are not supported by Ontario Works or the Ontario Disability Support Program are eligible for the benefits.

Eligible applicants will be sent an embossed letter which they can take to their dentist, optometrist, or pharmacy to access the care they need within three months.

To access the funds, residents must apply using the My Kingston – Municipal Fee Assistance Program (MFAP) application. Residents must fill out an application, even if they are already receiving MFAP. Applications are available online and at City Hall, Artillery Park Aquatic Centre, Housing and Social Services, and the INVISTA Centre. To find out more details on the My Kingston – Health Benefits Program, click here. To find out more about the MFAP, click here.