William A. Smith

 I spoke with a very resourceful individual at this office that pretty much did what he could to help me find the resources I might need. When it comes to actually "fixing" issues? Who knows... I was in a very dangerous situation after being a victim of a random criminal act, and ended up losing my residence and business in the process. I was given over 40 phone numbers to call, and no additional help. It's like I've always said - the government is not there to help people - but to maintain order. If the public feels they are being "taken care of", then individuals who are on the fringes suffer as everything is "business as usual" for the majority. It's like the opinion that people on ODSP should be grateful that such a program exists. True. But how much money does the Ombudsman and the provincial/federal government lose because of clerical mismanagement, poor policy, and unfair directives? And then it gets blamed on ODSP recipients who aren't allowed to make enough money to feed their kids...

 I found them to be effectively helpful with Hydro One when the Smart meters came in. That started in my area in 2013 / 2014 . 10,000 + complaints later I saw that there's an Ombudsman just for Hydro One. I see that Hydro One is coming at us again with raised rates. (2019). I hope the Ombudsman's office is as effective with these new complaints because the problem remains the same. Ontarians can't pay. I almost lost my house last time, trying to keep up with my OTHER bills. I'm a Senior on a fixed income. I've got no more to give. Sincerely Brenda Acero