This is the hardest part psychologically. The ODSP system is slow.
Next, she picked up the phone and dialed the ODSP office, scheduling an appointment with a caseworker. The earliest they could see her was in two weeks, which seemed like an eternity to Sarah. She spent the next few days filling out the application form, her anxiety growing with each question she answered.
When she arrived at the ODSP office, Sarah was greeted by a friendly receptionist who offered her a cup of coffee and a worn copy of a magazine. Sarah flipped through the pages, trying to distract herself from the butterflies in her stomach.
The application is not a single form but a multi-stage process involving the applicant, a caseworker, and a medical professional.
"Thank you, Sarah. We'll review your application and get back to you within a few weeks. In the meantime, I want you to know that ODSP is here to support you. We can help with income, housing, and employment supports. We'll work with you to get you back on your feet."
After what felt like an eternity, a caseworker emerged to escort Sarah to a cramped office in the back. The caseworker, a kind-faced woman named Karen, introduced herself and began to review Sarah's application.