NEWS RELEASE
MP CAROL HUGHES
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Households around Algoma-Manitoulin-Kapuskasing have been receiving mail from a private company who claims they can receive up to $50,000 from the Government of Canada, but NDP MP Carol Hughes is warning constituents that this mailing is neither from the federal or provincial governments.
“Constituents have been calling, e-mailing, and coming to my offices with concerns about flyers from a company called Ontario Benefits,” said Hughes. “While light on details, the flyer indicates that people can get money from the Government of Canada for having a number of medical conditions. Neither the provincial nor federal governments would send people a unilingual flyer telling them they can get paid for their medical condition.”
It's unclear who runs Ontario Benefits, but the flyer lists a number of medical conditions, such as ADHD, cancer, and irritable bowels, and states people of all ages and medical conditions can qualify. It asks people to call a toll-free number for more information, or text another number with your name and mailing address for an “information package.” It also lists a website that has very little information on it.
“I just want to warn people not to provide questionable organizations with your personal information,” said Hughes. “I can’t say for certain what sort of services, if any, this company provides. Even if they are operating legally, police organizations have already issued warnings about it.”
“If individuals have questions about possibly qualifying for government benefits such as for health conditions or other questions about government services, I encourage them to contact my office as provide services free of charge.”
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