Learning, Earning and Parenting (LEAP) Program

This program helps young parents who are receiving social assistance:

Finish high school
Develop parenting skills that promote healthy child development
Develop employment related skills to get a job and become financially independent

Eligibility

To be eligible for this program, you must:

Be a parent 25 years of age or younger
Be receiving social assistance (Ontario Works or Ontario Disability Support)
Have not completed high school

This program is:

Mandatory for parents 16 to 17 years of age
Voluntary for parents 18 to 25 years of age

Supports

We will cover part or all expenses related to:

Educational trips
Employment
Graduation fees
Recreational activity fees
School supplies and clothing
Transportation

Free child care

Niagara Region supports children from birth to 12 years of age and their families by providing a range of services offered across Niagara, including supports for children with special needs.

A single appointment with a casemanager will determine your eligibility for both Ontario Works and placement in a subsidized licensed child care space while participating in activities.

Cash incentive

Each participant will get $500 when they complete secondary school and at least 35 hours of approved parenting activities.

This incentive is an investment towards further education and training for either the parent or the child.

How to apply