The Ontario government has begun issuing $200 taxpayer rebates to Londoners and their eligible children to help with the high cost of living and interest rates, with cheques set to reach families over the weeks. The rebate was announced in October 2024.
Residents in London explain that the rebate is an opportunity for them to sort out urgent personal expenses. “I will be using it for groceries,” says Oyin Lola, a business owner. “It’s not a lot, but every bit helps.”
For others, the rebate provides an opportunity for extra spending. Martha Dunvbun, a business analyst, sees this as a great initiative by the government and an opportunity to treat herself to a nice birthday. “I haven’t gotten it yet, but I think it’s a fair amount that should help a lot of people.” I’m going to use mine to give myself a treat on my birthday and go to the blue mountain,” she says.
Retailers and business owners are also excited about this. Downtown shop owner Ofu Smith hopes these little funds will support local businesses. “People deserve to be happy in these hard times when things are expensive, and we would love to see them spending it here,” Smith says.
Financial advisor, however, urges people, “It’s tempting to splurge, but setting some asides for emergencies is wise,” says Winnie Badaiki.
While some see the rebate as a much-needed relief, Wayne questions its impact on long-term affordability. He says, “$200 is unlikely to significantly compensate for the high cost of living.
Ashma Gmuire, a nurse at the long-term care facility, says many people do not have jobs or shelter in this cold weather. ‘There is not so much I can do, but I would like to buy some groceries with this money and donate it to people.”
“People are looking for more sustainable solutions than a one-time rebate, says Shantell Salvador, a student at Fanshawe College.
