I'm not sure what the programs are like in Canada, but it sounds similar to the U.S. There's housing that's based on your total income. (whether your income is from working, disability, or any other source) Basically, the cost of your rent and utilities is adjusted depending on what your income is. For some people, the cost can be very low. I think there are waiting lists for this kind of housing, though. It probably depends on availability and the priority of your circumstances. (e.g., a family with children might have more priority than a bachelor) I think there are actually many different housing programs that have different standards. Some will allow you to buy your own home, and then help you lower payments.

If you're a student, there's financial aid and student housing. Generally, you receive a fixed amount of financial aid to pay for tuition, but you get to keep any additional aid that's left over. This can be used to help with housing expenses or food, for instance. (it can actually be used for anything you want)

The kinds of services available to you can be either federal or state. If something is federal, then it's available throughout the entire country; if it's state, then it's only available in your state. Sometimes, you can take advantage of both kinds of services, or state services will extend upon the benefits offered by federal services. (e.g., some states grant additional financial aid based on "lottery scholarships")

There is a strong tendency for public housing to be dangerous, though. Generally, druggies and dealers live in and around these areas. As long as you're not involved with them, you're relatively safe. I don't think I would bother trying to be friends with anyone in such an area, though. By associating with them, you're likely to end up in the wrong place at the wrong time, and have criminal charges brought against you. (particularly if you're around anyone in this area while they are in possession of drugs) How police deal with drug crimes in the U.S. is really outrageous.