The following are programs available to individuals currently on Ontario Works - London or in receipt of Ontario Disability Support Program within the City of London.

LEAP stands for Learning, Earning and Parenting. LEAP is a partnership program between the Boys' & Girls' Club of London (BGCL) and Ontario Works London (OW). Financial supports are provided by OW and the case management and community supports are provided by BGCL.

You are eligible for the program if you:

• Are a young parent, under 25 years old, with the children residing in your care
• Have not completed your high school education
• Are receiving Ontario Works / Ontario Disability assistance in London

You can join the LEAP program by calling the LEAP Coordinator at (519) 434-9115 ext. 255, at the Boys' & Girls' Club of London. An appointment will be made for you, at which time details regarding your eligibility and plans will be discussed.

The LEAP program has many benefits to offer you. These include:

• SUBSIDIZED CHILDCARE
  
  We can provide assistance in locating formal childcare and facilitating payments through OW.




• FREE PARENTING ACTIVITIES
  
  LEAP participants are required to complete parenting activities, while on the LEAP program, before you graduate.
  These activities include many fun and educating programs and events that both you and your children can enjoy. Examples include: Parent and Tots swim lessons, Young Parent's Lunch and Dinner groups, First Aid and CPR courses, etc. Programs and membership fees are paid for by OW.




• SCHOOL SUPPLIES and SCHOOL CLOTHING
  
  Assistance is provided in covering the costs of school supplies, school clothing, student fees, school registration fees, field trips and graduation fees.




• TRANSPORTATION COSTS
  
  You will receive a monthly bus pass to travel to and from school, appointments, parenting and volunteer activities, etc.




• $500 INCENTIVE UPON GRADUATION FROM THE LEAP PROGRAM
  
  When you graduate with your grade 12 diploma (O.S.S.D. or GED) and complete your parenting requirement, you will receive a $500 Incentive. This can be used towards your post secondary education or towards a Registered Educational Savings Plan (RESP) for your child(ren).

For more information call the LEAP Coordinator at 519-434-9115 Ext. 255 or email her at hmiller@bgclondon.ca