Emergency Housing After Eviction: Options for Ontario Tenants

Post-Eviction Resources Ontario published June 25, 2025 Flag of Ontario

If you have recently been evicted in Ontario, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed and unsure about your next steps. Fortunately, there are emergency housing resources and supports in Ontario to help you find safety and stability during this critical time.

What to Do Right After an Eviction

Eviction is a stressful process, but knowing what to do next can help protect your rights and well-being. If you haven’t already, make sure to review the eviction notice and ensure the process followed the Residential Tenancies Act, 2006. The Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario oversees tenancy disputes and eviction enforcement.

Immediate Emergency Housing Options

If you have nowhere to go after leaving your rental, consider these resources:

  • Emergency Shelters: Municipalities and organizations operate shelters for individuals and families. Find shelters in your area using Ontario’s Emergency Shelter List.
  • Transitional and Supportive Housing: Some organizations offer short-term stays and assistance finding permanent housing. Call 2-1-1 or visit 211 Ontario to explore available options.
  • Community Supports: Local organizations, food banks, and faith-based groups may offer temporary help. Ask at community centres for regional contacts.
  • Family or Friends: If possible, reach out to your support network for a temporary place to stay.

The City of Toronto maintains a central shelter intake for help locating space in the Toronto shelter system.

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How to Apply for Social and Temporary Housing Assistance

Ontario provides several programs for those facing a housing crisis:

  • Ontario Works Emergency Assistance: If you have little or no money, you may qualify for one-time urgent financial support. Visit your local Ontario Works office or learn more at Ontario Social Assistance.
  • Rent Bank Programs: Local rent banks may help cover rent arrears or emergency rent if you’re at risk of losing (or have just lost) your home. Contact your municipality or 2-1-1 for details.
  • Transitional Housing: This offers a safe place while you search for long-term accommodation. Ask shelter workers or social services about local openings.

Applying as soon as possible improves your access to support and housing options.

Forms and Applications: Accessing Help After Eviction

Certain situations may require specific government forms:

  • Ontario Works – Application for Assistance: Complete this form to request financial support for food, shelter, or health costs. Available through your municipal Ontario Works office. Apply Online Here. Use this if you have no income or a crisis after eviction.
  • Housing Help Centre Intake Forms: Community agencies may require you to complete an intake or assessment form. Staff can fill this with you during your first visit or call.
  • Landlord and Tenant Board Forms (e.g., A2 – Application About Tenancy Agreement): If you believe your eviction was not legal or want to appeal, the LTB’s official forms list is the place to start.

Staying Safe and Planning Your Next Steps

Your safety is a top priority. Stay in contact with trusted friends or loved ones when changing locations, and store important identification and documents securely. If you’re struggling with health or safety concerns in a new rental, brush up on your rights by reading Health and Safety Issues Every Tenant Should Know When Renting.

Tip: Keep a record of any conversations or paperwork related to your eviction and new housing search. This will support you if you need to apply for new housing or dispute the eviction.

Preparing for Permanent Housing

Once you’re safe, begin planning for more stable housing. Consider saving documents and references from your previous tenancies. Review How to Get Your Security Deposit Back with Interest When Moving Out to maximize your funds for a new home.

When searching for your next rental, Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for updated listings and user-friendly search tools.

Know Your Rights as a Tenant in Ontario

Even after an eviction, you have rights that protect you from discrimination or unsafe housing. Learn more at Tenant Rights in Ontario.

FAQ: Emergency Housing After Eviction in Ontario

  1. Where can I find an emergency shelter after an eviction?
    Most cities maintain a shelter list; call 2-1-1 or use the Ontario shelter directory.
  2. Can I apply for financial assistance if I’m homeless?
    Yes. Apply to Ontario Works for emergency support if you have no income or shelter.
  3. What if I think my eviction was not legal?
    You may file an application with the Landlord and Tenant Board using Form A2 or seek advice from a legal clinic.
  4. How do I protect my belongings after an eviction?
    Arrange storage with family or friends, or inquire at your local housing help centre. Landlords must follow rules about property left behind.
  5. Is there help for finding a new rental home quickly?
    Yes. Visit Find rental homes across Canada on Houseme for available listings, or contact local housing help centres directly.

Key Takeaways

  • Contact emergency shelters or 2-1-1 in your area if you need immediate housing after eviction.
  • Apply for Ontario Works or rent bank support for financial aid as needed.
  • Review your rights through Tenant Rights in Ontario and ensure all eviction steps followed Ontario law.

Finding a safe, stable place after eviction is possible—support and information are available across Ontario.

Need Help? Resources for Tenants


  1. Residential Tenancies Act, 2006 – Official Ontario Legislation
  2. Landlord and Tenant Board of Ontario – Tribunals Ontario
  3. Ontario Emergency Shelters – Government of Ontario Shelter List
  4. Ontario Works Social Assistance – Government of Ontario
Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Canada

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.