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Resources/Links

Ensemble has compiled a list of supports and services relevant to the disability sector.

We do our best to keep the links and information accurate and up to date. Ensemble welcomes feedback including corrections, updates, and suggestions for improvement, so please email Ensemble.

Please note that many services and supports will appear under multiple categories.

This listing of services and supports does not constitute an endorsement or verification of the quality/type of supports or services.

The Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services has made temporary changes to the Passport program. We have included a link to the updated Passport Guidelines, which come into effect April 1, 2022.

Click Here to Read the Updated Guidelines

Abuse

  • Advocates Against Abuse
    Advocates Against Abuse (AAA) – an innovative project in partnership with four other services providers, funded by Green Shield Canada to develop a curriculum and prepare peer trainers to teach abuse prevention and awareness to people who have an intellectual disability. For more information, please contact Lynne Shepley at Community Living Essex County, (519) 776-6483 ext. 232.
  • Serving Sexual Violence Victims with Disabilities Toolkit
    The West Virginia S.A.F.E. Training and Collaboration Toolkit: Serving Sexual Violence Victims with Disabilities, is a useful resource to facilitate cross-training and improve the ability to recognize the signs of sexual abuse and how to respond appropriately.

Accessibility

  • AODA Alliance
    The AODA Alliance is a disability consumer advocacy group that works to support the full and effective implementation of accessibility standards in Ontario. Since 2005, the AODA Alliance has worked collaboratively with the disability community and with government to promote the interests of persons with disabilities. Ontarians with Disabilities Act Committee which dissolved and reformed to become AODA Alliance, worked diligently on a 10-year campaign that led to the enactment of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act 2005.
  • Buddy Bike
    Adaptive bicycle.
  • Essex County Accessibility Advisory Committee
    This seven member Committee was appointed by Essex County Council, in accordance with the Ontarians With Disabilities Act, and acts as an advisory body to County Council for the preparation, implementation and monitoring of effectiveness of the annual Accessibility Plan for the Corporation of the County of Essex.
  • Ontario Camps Association
    Guide to camps working towards inclusion that may have resources for people with special needs. Please contact camps directly for details and accommodations.
  • Windsor Accessibility Advisory Committee
    The Windsor Accessibility Advisory Committee (WAAC) is comprised of 12 members, including volunteer citizens, disabled citizens and one member of City Council, The WAAC meet monthly and seeks to eliminate barriers for persons with disabilities.

Adult Services & Supports

  • Assisted Living Southwestern Ontario
    This agency continues the service tradition of the Association for Persons With Physical Disabilities of Windsor and Essex County by providing adults with physical disabilities with services that ensure they are able to live, work and play in the community with choice, opportunities, and the confidence of full citizenship. Various services include attendant services, supportive housing, outreach, respite, social recreation, employment services, and client intervention services.
  • Assistive Devices Program
    The objective of the Assistive Devices Program (ADP) provides funding to Ontario residents who have long-term physical disabilities and to provide access to personalized assistive devices appropriate for the individual’s basic needs.
  • Autism Services Incorporated of Windsor and Essex County
    Autism Services Incorporated serves the needs of those in our community with Autism Spectrum Disorders and the people who are close to them.
  • Brain Injury Association of Windsor-Essex County
    The Brain Injury Association of Windsor-Essex County develops, provides and disseminates information and educational tools that define, discuss and describe all aspects of acquired brain injury. They also track, analyze and report on related acquired brain injury data through in-house questionnaires and bring to the public’s attention the definition and effects of acquired brain injuries.
  • Christian Horizons
    Christian Horizons is a non-profit, faith-based charitable organization serving adults with developmental disabilities and their families. With more than 200 residences as well as respite care and retreat facilities, we offer programs and services that can be tailored to meet a wide variety of needs.
  • Community Living Essex County
    Community Living Essex County is a not-for-profit charitable organization has been committed to assisting people of all ages who have an intellectual disability and their families throughout Essex County since 1961.
  • Community Living Windsor
    Community Living Windsor provides supports and services to people who have an intellectual disability in the Windsor community, serving over 500 families since 1952.
  • Developmental Services Ontario (DSO)
    Developmental Services Ontario helps adults with developmental disabilities connect to services and supports in their communities and is funded by the Ontario Ministry of Community and Social Services.
  • Developmental Services Ontario South West Region
    Access point for adult developmental services funded by the Ontario Ministry of Community and Social Services across the south west region which includes Windsor-Essex County.
  • Erie St. Clair – Local Health Integration Network (LHIN)
    The Community Care Access Centre (CCAC) connect people with the care they need at home, coordinates care in their community through specialized support services, and provides information about long-term care options. The Windsor-Essex CCAC is funded through the Erie-St. Clair Health Integration Network so advice and services are covered by tax dollars and OHIP.
  • Family Services Windsor-Essex
    Family Services Windsor-Essex offers a variety of services for men, women, children, the LGBT community, people with disabilities as well as seniors and their caregivers. Services include individual/marital/couple/family and group counselling, support for adults with developmental disabilities and seniors living in the community that includes client intervention for conflict resolution, friendly visitor program, volunteer trusteeship program, income tax completion, form completion service, and walk-in services.
  • Harmony in Action
    Harmony In Action is a non-profit, incorporated, registered charity that provides a day program and other programs for people with intellectual and physical disabilities.
  • March of Dimes Canada
    Ontario March of Dimes serves adults age 19 years and older who are physically disabled with a mobility impairment. Various services and programs are offered including friendship, attendant services, home and vehicle modifications, promotion of understanding and acceptance of disabilities, employment services, recreation, acquired brain injury, and more. Contact (800) 263-3463 or (416) 425-3463.
  • Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)
    The Ontario Disability Support Program helps people with disabilities who are in financial need pay for living expenses, like food and housing.
  • Ontario Federation of Cerebral Palsy
    The Ontario Federation for Cerebral Palsy (OFCP) is an organization committed to supporting independence, inclusion, choice and full integration of all persons with cerebral palsy (CP) in Ontario. The OFCP does this by providing and initiating a wide range of services, resources and programs for individuals with CP and their families as well as professional organizations. These services can range from funding for equipment, education and recreation to housing and life planning.
  • Ontario Photo Identification Card
    An Ontario photo identification card was introduced to make it easier for people who do not have a driver’s license to travel, open a bank account, and perform any other activities that require official ID. Ontarians with disabilities, seniors and other advocacy groups provided input on the design and availability of the card. Ontario residents who are 16 and older were able to apply for the new photo ID card at Service Ontario Centres, (800) 387-3445. In Windsor-Essex County, the card is available at Service Ontario, 400 City Hall Square, Windsor.
  • Reach for the Skye
    Reach for the Skye Windsor is a registered charitable organization that provides day programs for developmentally and physically challenged youth and adults.
  • Regional Support Associates
    Regional Support Associates (RSA) provides leading edge clinical supports aimed at enhancing the quality of life for adults with intellectual/ developmental disabilities in their community. We inspire innovation and creativity in ourselves and in those with whom we work, through our clinical practice, research, education, and community development in intellectual /developmental disabilities.
  • Roots 2 Wings
    Daytime programs, friendship club, and special events. The Daytime Program is for ages 18 years and up and runs Mondays to Fridays from 9am-3pm. Before and after program care is available upon request. Activities focus on socialization, integration, independent living, self-help skills, program activities on-site and within the community. An individual plan is developed by ROOTS 2 WINGS, by the person and their family/caregiver.
  • Southern Network of Specialized Care
    The Southern Network of Specialized Care (SNSC) facilitates a unified network consisting of individuals, service providers, academics and professionals with an interest in, or who provide specialized services to adults with a dual diagnosis of a mental health and a developmental disability so that individuals and their families receive the highest quality of assessment, treatment, and support.
  • St. Francis Advocates
    St. Francis Advocates was established in 1984 to advocate for people with Autism and their families. Our name was taken from St. Francis of Assisi, because of his love of animals and nature and his need to protect them. St. Francis Advocates operates 12 residential homes across Lambton, Kent and Essex Counties, supporting adults with Autism and/or other Developmental Disabilities. Residentially, people learn self- help skills that are essential for more independent living along with enjoying leisure and community activities. St. Francis Advocates’ philosophy is to provide a “family like” environment to everyone supported. We believe that each person is unique and therefore opportunities explored are based on needs and interests.
  • Windsor-Essex Brokerage for Personal Supports
    Windsor Essex Brokerage for Personal Supports is funded by the Ministry of Community and Social Services (MCSS) to provide information that is personalized for adults 18 years of age and older with developmental disabilities in Windsor and Essex County. They offer facilitation and planning Support for adults who have a developmental disability and are looking for a different or unique way to work towards their life goals and dreams.

Advocacy

  • Advocates Against Abuse
    Advocates Against Abuse (AAA) – an innovative project in partnership with four other services providers, funded by Green Shield Canada to develop a curriculum and prepare peer trainers to teach abuse prevention and awareness to people who have an intellectual disability. For more information, please contact Lynne Shepley at Community Living Essex County, (519) 776-6483 ext 232.
  • AODA Alliance
    The AODA Alliance is a disability consumer advocacy group that works to support the full and effective implementation of accessibility standards in Ontario. Since 2005, the AODA Alliance has worked collaboratively with the disability community and with government to promote the interests of persons with disabilities. Ontarians with Disabilities Act Committee which dissolved and reformed to become AODA Alliance, worked diligently on a 10-year campaign that led to the enactment of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act 2005.
  • ARCH Disability Law Centre
    ARCH Disability Law Centre is a specialty community legal aid clinic dedicated to defending and advancing the equality rights of people with disabilities in Ontario. ARCH provides legal services to help Ontarians with disabilities live with dignity and participate fully in their communities. They work with Ontarians with disabilities and the disability community on law reform and policy initiatives, community development, legal advice and referrals, public legal education and litigation.
  • Community Living Ontario
    Community Living Ontario is a non-profit, provincial association that advocates for people who have an intellectual disability to be fully included in all aspects of community life.
  • Family Alliance Ontario
    Family Alliance Ontario strives to inform and engage with people who want individuals with disabilities to have lives rich with valued relationships, and opportunities for inclusion in their schools and communities, participating and contributing alongside their peers. Family Alliance Ontario is an alliance of citizens that offers knowledge, tools and networking opportunities to individuals with disabilities and their families to assist them to realize a vision that includes having valued relationships, choice and control in their lives, and enables inclusion through meaningful contribution and participation in their communities.
  • Inclusion Canada
    Inclusion Canada, formerly the Canadian Association for Community Living, is the national federation working to advance the full inclusion and human rights of people with an intellectual disability and their families.
  • Individualized Funding Coalition
    They are a ‘coalition’ of: people with disabilities, families, friends, advocates, facilitators, organizations and agencies working together to move individualized funding forward in Ontario. They support the self-determination of persons with disabilities. They believe that all people should have control over decisions concerning where they live, with whom they live, with whom they associate and how they spend their lives. They believe that the person requiring assistance, supported by family and/or others, should have access to and control over the funds allocated for his/her supports.
  • New Day
    New Day is a self-advocacy group involving people with intellectual disabilities who receive supports from Community Living Essex County. New Day members work together and independently to increase awareness both within the organization, as well as within the community about what it means to live with a disability.
  • ODSP Action Coalition
    The ODSP Action Coalition is a province-wide network of people with lived experience on ODSP, disability organizations, community agencies, anti-poverty groups and community legal clinics. We push for improvements to the Ontario Disability Support Program so that people with disabilities can live with justice and dignity.
  • Ontario Coalition for Inclusive Education
    The Ontario Coalition for Inclusive Education was created in 1995, by six leading voluntary organizations working toward inclusive communities, to manage the Building Inclusive Schools Project. These organizations included Community Living Ontario, Family Alliance Ontario, Integration Action Group, People First of Ontario, Down Syndrome Association of Ontario, and Youth Involvement Ontario.
  • Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC)
    The Ontario Human Rights Commission develops policies, provides public education, monitoring and community outreach, and conducts inquiries. The OHRC plays an important role in preventing discrimination and promoting and advancing human rights in Ontario.
  • Ontario’s Ombudsman
    The Ombudsman is an independent officer of the Legislature who investigates complaints from the public about Ontario government services. André Marin has been the Ombudsman since 2005 and his investigations have sparked numerous government reforms. Currently, Ontario is the only province without Ombudsman oversight in the “MUSH” sector which covers municipalities (except investigations into closed meetings), universities, school boards, hospitals, nursing homes and long-term care facilities, police, and children’s aid societies. Please contact your local MPP to request Ombudsman oversight into the MUSH sector as people with disabilities encounter many challenges within this sector requiring assistance and accountability.
  • Parent’s Advocacy in the School
    Parent’s Advocacy in the School has been assisting parents, children and families with concerns regarding special needs for many years. Parent’s Advocacy in the School (PAS) is made up of people who have a wide range of experience in the areas of schooling, advocacy, education and related endeavors. The founder of PAS, Dr. Forman, is an educator, psychologist, author and parent advocate. He has been involved in his field for over thirty years. The goals of PAS include actively networking with parents and others who are involved in the education of children and youth with exceptionalities and creating opportunities for parents, school personnel, and members of special needs associations to share information and resources in order to work in greater harmony on behalf of the children.
  • People First of Canada
    People First of Canada is a national advocacy group for people who are labeled with an intellectual disability. They advocate for human rights, citizenship, language rights, community inclusion, political issues, and more.
  • People First of Ontario
    Advocacy organization for people with intellectual disabilities that promotes equality, teaches the community about the rights, strengths, and abilities of people with intellectual disabilities, and assists people in realizing their rights and to speak up for themselves.
  • People for Education
    People for Education is an independent, parent-led organization that is passionate about publicly funded education, and we believe that well-equipped publicly funded schools, with a well-rounded curriculum, provide young people with the best chance for a bright future. They have a toll-free parent-support line to answer your questions about education or provide you with links to the information and resources you might need to help you and your child navigate the education system. To reach them, call (888) 534-3944.
  • People for Personalized Funding
    People for Personalized Funding, formerly the SSAH /Passport Coalition (SSAHPC), was initially formed in 1990 by a dedicated group of individuals, families and agencies who joined together. They expanded our mandate to include the Passport Program in 2011. They came together for strength and support because of growing concerns regarding the need to expand policy and funding for Special Services at Home program (SSAH) and the Passport program. In the early 1990’s, they believe their advocacy efforts encouraged the government to increase the SSAH funds.
  • The Reclamation Project: The Value of Living Life at the Helm
    A website dedicated to sharing the voices of those who lived in institutions and its’ effects, as well the voices that closed the institutions.

Children & Youth Services & Supports

  • Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities
    The Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities Program helps parents with some of the extra costs of caring for a child who has a severe disability.
  • Assistive Devices Program
    The objective of the Assistive Devices Program (ADP) provides funding to Ontario residents who have long-term physical disabilities and to provide access to personalized assistive devices appropriate for the individual’s basic needs.
  • Autism Services Incorporated of Windsor and Essex County
    Autism Services Incorporated serves the needs of those in our community with Autism Spectrum Disorders and the people who are close to them.
  • Behavior-12 Tips for Managing Challenging Behavior
    Managing behavior that is challenging can be very stressful for parents of children and adults with special needs. But it’s important to see it as a form of communication. 12 Tips have been contributed to Netbuddy by parents of children and adults with special needs.
  • Brain Injury Association of Windsor-Essex County
    The Brain Injury Association of Windsor-Essex County develops, provides and disseminates information and educational tools that define, discuss and describe all aspects of acquired brain injury. They also track, analyze and report on related acquired brain injury data through in-house questionnaires and bring to the public’s attention the definition and effects of acquired brain injuries.
  • Child and Parent Resource Institute (CPRI)
    CPRI stands for the Child and Parent Resource Institute. They provide highly specialized trauma-informed mental health and developmental services.  These services include Assessment, Consultation, Treatment, Research and Education. They work with  local community services, building on what they have already done.They use evidence based practice and adapt their approach to the unique needs of each child.  Child and Parent Resource Institute (CPRI) provides voluntary services to children and youth with complex mental health and/or developmental challenges. They serve children and youth (and families) on a short term residential and community basis. The services they provide are highly specialized and include assessment, consultation, treatment, research and education. They also provide programs and clinics for children and youth, their families and caregivers.
  • Children First
    Children First provides services to families with children birth to six years of age who have special needs that may include developmental and mental health challenges.
  • Community Living Essex County
    Community Living Essex County is a not-for-profit charitable organization has been committed to assisting people of all ages who have an intellectual disability and their families throughout Essex County since 1961.
  • Erie St. Clair – Local Health Integration Network (LHIN)
    The Community Care Access Centre (CCAC) connect people with the care they need at home, coordinates care in their community through specialized support services, and provides information about long-term care options. The Windsor-Essex CCAC is funded through the Erie-St. Clair Health Integration Network so advice and services are covered by tax dollars and OHIP.
  • Family Respite Services Windsor-Essex County
    Family Respite Services Windsor-Essex County is a community organization that works with families caring for children under the age eighteen years who have intellectual, physical and mental health disabilities by facilitating respite services .
  • Helplink
    Contact Helplink at (519) 257-5288 and they are located at 3901 Connaught Avenue in Windsor. They are a community access service information and referral service that assists families with children age 6-12 years with developmental delays and/or mental health issues by providing information, support and linkages to appropriate community services, facilitating access to services outside the community for families who have exhausted all community resources.
  • Hotel-Dieu Grace Healthcare Regional Children’s Centre
    The Regional Children’s Centre is an accredited children’s mental health centre serving children and adolescents who are dealing with social, emotional, developmental, and/or behavioural issues, and their families. The Centre offers a variety of crisis stabilization, diagnostic, assessment, treatment, and consultative services designed to promote healthy functioning of children, youth, and their families within the home, school, and community. The Centre offers on-site out-patient and residential services and community based programs.
  • John McGivney Children’s Centre
    The John McGivney Children’s Centre provides rehabilitative services to the Windsor and Essex County community, enriching the lives of children and youth with disabilities and special needs by helping them reach their full potential.
  • Maryvale
    Maryvale is a Children’s Mental Health treatment centre in Windsor, Ontario, where adolescents experiencing very serious emotional, psychological and mental distress can receive therapy and assistance from a team of experts. They help young people (aged 11 to 17) and their families who feel highly anxious, depressed, suicidal, worthless and hopeless, or who have lost their willingness to care about others. They may be dealing with debilitating learning disabilities. Maryvale’s students stay for as short as 7 days to several months or years. Others attend only during the day, for after school or for weekend respite and activities.
  • Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS)
    The programs of the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services help to build communities that are resilient, inclusive and sustained by the economic and civic contributions of all Ontarians. Their major programs are: Social Assistance (Ontario Works and Ontario Disability Support Program), Community and Developmental Services, the Family Responsibility Office and Ontario’s Strategy to end Human Trafficking.
  • Ontario Camps Association
    Guide to camps working towards inclusion that may have resources for people with special needs. Please contact camps directly for details and accommodations.
  • Ontario Federation of Cerebral Palsy
    The Ontario Federation for Cerebral Palsy (OFCP) is an organization committed to supporting independence, inclusion, choice and full integration of all persons with cerebral palsy (CP) in Ontario. The OFCP does this by providing and initiating a wide range of services, resources and programs for individuals with CP and their families as well as professional organizations. These services can range from funding for equipment, education and recreation to housing and life planning.
  • Ontario’s Ombudsman
    The Ombudsman is an independent officer of the Legislature who investigates complaints from the public about Ontario government services. André Marin has been the Ombudsman since 2005 and his investigations have sparked numerous government reforms. Currently, Ontario is the only province without Ombudsman oversight in the “MUSH” sector which covers municipalities (except investigations into closed meetings), universities, school boards, hospitals, nursing homes and long-term care facilities, police, and children’s aid societies. Please contact your local MPP to request Ombudsman oversight into the MUSH sector as people with disabilities encounter many challenges within this sector requiring assistance and accountability.
  • Special Services at Home Program
    The Special Services at Home program helps families who are caring for a child with a developmental or physical disability that is funded and managed by the Ministry of Community and Social Services.
  • Summer Camps for Children with Special Needs
    Summer camps for children with special needs are designed to provide extra help for kids requiring physical, emotional, behavourial or medical support
  • Summit Centre for Preschool Children
    The Summit Centre provides an effective and supportive state of the art treatment program to service families and their young children with Autism Spectrum Disorders in Windsor and surrounding communities. An intensive, behavior therapy program is available to children between the ages of 18 months to 4 years who have a diagnosis or suspected diagnosis of ASD and live within a one hour drive to program site. There is a modest user fee based on ability to pay.
  • Talk 2 Me
    Talk 2 Me is the local preschool speech and language program for Windsor-Essex county. Talk 2 Me provides services for families with children from birth to the time they start school. They can: Answer questions about your child’s speech, language and emergent literacy development. Offer information on typical speech, language and emergent literacy development. Give tips on what parents can do to help their child’s oral language and literacy skills develop. Provide local assessment clinics where you can meet and consult a Speech-Language Pathologist. Provide individual speech therapy, group therapy, and parent education sessions.
  • Thames Valley Children’s Centre
    Thames Valley Children’s Centre is a regional rehabilitation center for children and young adults with physical disabilities, communication disorders, developmental delays and autism spectrum disorders, living primarily in Southwestern Ontario.
  • Therapeutic Learning Centre
    Therapeutic Learning Centre is an educational intervention clinic that teaches children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental or learning disabilities, communication, socialization, and functional learning and living skills using the principles of Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA). Therapeutic Learning Centre specializes in Intensive Behavioural Intervention (IBI), and provides these services to the clientele in both centre- and home-based settings, but Therapeutic Learning Centre also offers a variety of programs and services for a wide range of clients.
  • Transition Planning for Youth with Developmental Disabilities
    The purpose of this website is to give parents and others who support young people with disabilities some tips, resources and practical information to help plan for the transition to life as an adult.
  • Windsor-Essex Children’s Aid Society
    Childrens Aid Society (CAS) receives funding through the Ministry of Child and Youth Services and works in each community to provide help & support to children and their families. CAS is mandated to uphold Child and Family Services Act (CFSA) and is responsible for investigating all allegations of child abuse, including neglect, while also providing protection services to children, youth and their families residing in Essex County.
  • Youth Diversion Essex County
    The Essex County Diversion Program serves youth ages 12 – 17 throughout Windsor and Essex County that provides a series of eight youth programs that focus on building confidence, making healthy decisions and improving communication.

Communication

  • Ablenet
    AbleNet is an international company and industry leader in providing educational and technical solutions to help children and adults with disabilities lead productive and fulfilled lives. This includes a complete line of communication aids for nonverbal individuals; access aids for all ages and situations; and special education classroom curriculum that both enhance and help ensure learning progress.
  • American Speech-Language-Hearing Association – Providing Information on Augmentative and Alternative Communication
    Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) includes all forms of communication (other than oral speech) that are used to express thoughts, needs, wants, and ideas. All People all AAC when they make facial expressions or gestures, use symbols or pictures, or write. People with severe speech or language problems rely on AAC to supplement existing speech or replace speech that is not functional. Special augmentative aids, such as picture and symbol communication boards and electronic devices, are available to help people express themselves. This may increase social interaction, school performance, and feelings of self-worth. The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) is the national professional, scientific, and credentialing association for audiologists, speech-language pathologists, speech, language, and hearing scientists, audiology and speech-language pathology support personnel, and students.
  • AssistiveWare
    Founded in 2000, AssistiveWare® has successfully established itself as a leading innovator of assistive technology software for iOS and Mac OS X with over 125,000 customers worldwide and is committed to collaborating with the global community to make a difference in people’s lives. The company’s flagship product, Proloquo2Go®, is an award-winning Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) application for iPad, iPhone and iPod touch that provides a “voice” for people who have difficulty speaking or cannot speak at all.
  • Augmentative Devices, John McGivney Children’s Centre
    Augmentative Communication involves the use of techniques such as signs, gestures or pictures and technology such as voice output devices (talkers) or computers to help clients to communicate more effectively. The clinic features a multidisciplinary team comprised of Speech Language Pathologists, Occupational Therapists, Communication Disorder Assistants, Technologists and Teachers. Our Augmentative Communication Clinic is open to residents of Essex County up to the age of 21. Clients over age 21 will be seen on a case by case basis. Referrals are accepted from families, therapists, educators and other professionals. If a client is new to our center, a medical referral is required.
  • Behavior-12 Tips for Managing Challenging Behavior
    Managing behavior that is challenging can be very stressful for parents of children and adults with special needs. But it’s important to see it as a form of communication. 12 Tips have been contributed to Netbuddy by parents of children and adults with special needs.
  • Boundless Assistive Technology
    Boundless Assistive Technology proudly offers the world’s best Assistive Technology products, service, and support. With over 30 years of combined industry experience their goal is to provide customers with the best Assistive Technology buying experience.
  • Canadian Association of Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists
    National organization supporting and representing Canada’s speech-language pathologists, audiologists and supportive personnel. Offers a resource section of information for the public that includes communication tips and assistance locating professional service
  • Communication Aids
    The Communication Aids program, formerly the Assistive Devices Program (ADP) provides funding to Ontario residents who have long-term physical disabilities and to provide access to personalized assistive devices appropriate for the individual’s basic needs. Devices funded by the program include voice amplifiers, electrolarynges, writing aids, communication boards, voice output devices, adaptive devices to help people access writing and speech aids.
  • Dnyavox Mayer-Johnson Augmentative Devices – Go Talk, BIGmack Switch, Picture Communication Symbols (PCS), Boardmaker
    Supplier offering various augmentative communication devices and accessories such as Go Talk, BIGmack Switch, Picture Communication Symbols, Boardmaker, and more!
  • Dynavox Communication Devices
    For over 25 years, our technology – developed through clinical research and customer feedback – has helped thousands of individuals that have limited or no speech due to a variety of causes including stroke, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) or traumatic injury.
  • Enabling Devices
    Enabling Devices is a company dedicated to developing affordable learning and assistive devices to help people of all ages with disabling conditions. Founded by Steven E. Kanor, Ph.D., and originally known as Toys for Special Children, the company has been creating innovative communicators, toys, and switches for the physically challenged for more than 35 years.
  • Ontario Association for Families of Children with Communication Disorders
    Our mission is to work with families and community partners to ensure children have access to effective speech and language services. Our association may be of assistance to you if your child requires speech and language services, you have been affected by service delays or cuts at your hospital or school, you wish to network with other families for support, you need more information about your child’s communication difficulties, or you need more information about community resources in your area.
  • School Health
    School Health was founded over a decade ago to utilize the power of the web to make Assistive Technology easier to find and more affordable. School Health became the catalyst to bring together consumers and manufacturers of Assistive Technology products. Today School Health is the worldwide leader in Assistive Technology distribution with customers representing all 50 states and over 45 foreign countries. School Health is the one-stop solution for over 3,000 Assistive Technology devices from over 200 manufacturers. School Health excels at finding the right Assistive Technology products to meet customers’ needs.
  • Talk 2 Me
    Talk 2 Me is the local preschool speech and language program for Windsor-Essex county. Talk 2 Me provides services for families with children from birth to the time they start school. They can: Answer questions about your child’s speech, language and emergent literacy development. Offer information on typical speech, language and emergent literacy development. Give tips on what parents can do to help their child’s oral language and literacy skills develop. Provide local assessment clinics where you can meet and consult a Speech-Language Pathologist. Provide individual speech therapy, group therapy, and parent education sessions.
  • Ten Commandments of Communicating about People with Intellectual Disabilities
    The following language guidelines have been developed by experts for use by anyone writing or speaking about people with intellectual disabilities (ID) to ensure that all people are portrayed with individuality and dignity. The guidelines also demonstrate how language can help break down the barriers to acceptance and inclusion. The role of the media in shaping public perception and opinions about political and social issues has long been the subject of both speculation and research. It is widely accepted that what we know about, think and believe about what happens in the world, outside of a person’s first-hand experience, is shaped, and some would say orchestrated, by how these events are reported. The purpose of this guide is to be a practical, handy guide for journalists on how to portray people with intellectual disabilities with individuality and dignity, to raise awareness of intellectual disability among journalists; to promote respect, acceptance, inclusion, and human dignity for people with intellectual disabilities.
  • Ten Commandments of Interacting with People with Mental Health Disabilities
    The Ten Commandments of Interacting with People with Mental Health Disabilities is adapted from a variety of resources: Mary Lee Stocks, MSW, LISW, from the Ten Commandments of Communicating with People with Disabilities, originally developed by the National Center for Access Unlimited/Chicago and United Cerebral Palsy Associations/Washington, D.C.; and a video and script developed by Irene M. Ward & Associates/Columbus, Ohio, partially supported through Ohio Development Disabilities Planning Council Grant #92-13 (1993)
  • The Ten Commandments of Communicating with People with Disabilities
    The Ten Commandments were adapted from many sources as a public service by United Cerebral Palsy Associates, Inc. (UCPA), UCPA’s version of the Ten Commandments was updated by Irene M. Ward & Associates (Columbus, Ohio), also as a public service, and to provide the most current language possible for its video entitled, The Ten Commandments of Communicating With People With Disabilities.
  • Whole Note Music Therapy Services
    Established in 2005, Whole Note Music Therapy Services provides individual & group based programming for children, teens & adults with special needs. Active music-making is used deliberately to engage and motivate individuals with special needs in activities which target goals in areas such as expressive and receptive communication skills, academic concepts and literacy skills, social responsive behaviours, as well as promoting character development by building self-confidence and increasing independence. Adapted piano lessons can be provided upon request. Location & times vary.
  • Youth Diversion Essex County
    The Essex County Diversion Program serves youth ages 12 – 17 throughout Windsor and Essex County that provides a series of eight youth programs that focus on building confidence, making healthy decisions and improving communication.

Counseling & Crisis Services

  • Adult Bereavement Program
    This program provides supportive grief counseling to bereaved individuals, as well as education and consultation to community agencies, groups and the general public. Facilitated support groups based on type of death or relationship to the deceased offer peer support and education which promote understanding of grieving process, as well as learning and implementation of healthy coping strategies.
  • Child and Parent Resource Institute (CPRI)
    CPRI stands for the Child and Parent Resource Institute. They provide highly specialized trauma-informed mental health and developmental services.  These services include Assessment, Consultation, Treatment, Research and Education. They work with  local community services, building on what they have already done.They use evidence based practice and adapt their approach to the unique needs of each child.  Child and Parent Resource Institute (CPRI) provides voluntary services to children and youth with complex mental health and/or developmental challenges. They serve children and youth (and families) on a short term residential and community basis. The services they provide are highly specialized and include assessment, consultation, treatment, research and education. They also provide programs and clinics for children and youth, their families and caregivers.
  • Children’s Bereavement (Griefworks)
    The program provides a continuum of support for individual children, families, professional caregivers and the child’s social environment, to assist children to effectively deal with bereavement issues and the trauma that often accompanies an unexpected loss or violent death. Contact: (519) 255-7440.
  • Distress Centre Windsor-Essex County
    Sometimes talking helps and the Distress Centre has caring volunteers who provide free confidential, anonymous, emotional support, crisis intervention, suicide prevention, and community referrals by telephone available 12pm – 12 midnight 365 days a year Call: 519-256-5000.
  • Emergency Binder from Windsor-Essex Dual Diagnosis Committee
    This Emergency Binder was developed by the Windsor Essex Dual Diagnosis Committee as a way to help families & caregivers. There may be times when you need to accompany your loved one to the hospital in a Mental Health Crisis. It can be very hard when you are dealing with a crisis, and after trying everything you can think of, you may feel the only thing you can do is go to the Emergency Room (ER) with your family member. If this binder is kept up to date, it should help make things easier for you at the hospital. The binder can be given to the Triage Nurse in the ER and she/he can copy the important information the hospital needs to set up a chart. Windsor Essex Emergency Binder – Revised 2016 (PDF – print off and fill out), Windsor Essex ER binder – word fillable – June 2016 (Word Fillable form – download, fill out on computer before printing it off).
  • House on Riverside – The Psychological Services and Research Centre
    The purpose of the Centre is to provide services to individuals and support the professional training of graduate students in clinical psychology. Services are provided by doctoral students under the supervision of psychologists who are members of the College of Psychologists of Ontario. In some cases, services may be provided by faculty members who are registered psychologists.
  • Regional Support Associates (RSA)
    Regional Support Associates provides clinical supports aimed at enhancing the quality of life for adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities in their community.

Day Programs/Summer Support

  • Autism Services Incorporated of Windsor and Essex County
    Autism Services Incorporated serves the needs of those in our community with Autism Spectrum Disorders and the people who are close to them.
  • Community Living Essex County
    Community Living Essex County is a not-for-profit charitable organization has been committed to assisting people of all ages who have an intellectual disability and their families throughout Essex County since 1961.
  • Community Living Windsor
    Community Living Windsor provides supports and services to people who have an intellectual disability in the Windsor community, serving over 500 families since 1952.
  • Harmony in Action
    Harmony In Action is a non-profit, incorporated, registered charity that provides a day program and other programs for people with intellectual and physical disabilities.
  • Ontario Camps Association
    Guide to camps working towards inclusion that may have resources for people with special needs. Please contact camps directly for details and accommodations.
  • Reach for the Skye
    Reach for the Skye Windsor is a registered charitable organization that provides day programs for developmentally and physically challenged youth and adults.
  • Roots 2 Wings
    Daytime programs, friendship club, and special events. The Daytime Program is for ages 18 years and up and runs Mondays to Fridays from 9am-3pm. Before and after program care is available upon request. Activities focus on socialization, integration, independent living, self-help skills, program activities on-site and within the community. An individual plan is developed by ROOTS 2 WINGS, by the person and their family/caregiver.
  • Summer Camps for Children with Special Needs
    Summer camps for children with special needs are designed to provide extra help for kids requiring physical, emotional, behavourial or medical support

Disability Legislation

  • Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act, 2005
    This Regulation establishes the accessibility standards for each of information and communications, employment and transportation. The requirements in the standards set out in this Regulation are not a replacement or a substitution for the requirements established under the Human Rights Code nor do the standards limit any obligations owed to persons with disabilities under any other legislation. Except as otherwise provided in this Regulation, this Regulation applies to the Government of Ontario, the Legislative Assembly, every designated public sector organization and to every other person or organization that provides goods, services or facilities to the public or other third parties and that has at least one employee in Ontario.
  • Ontario Human Rights Code
    Ontario’s Human Rights Code was enacted in1962 and prohibits actions that discriminate against people based on a protected ground in a protected social area.
  • Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC)
    The Ontario Human Rights Commission develops policies, provides public education, monitoring and community outreach, and conducts inquiries. The OHRC plays an important role in preventing discrimination and promoting and advancing human rights in Ontario.
  • Ontario’s Ombudsman
    The Ombudsman is an independent officer of the Legislature who investigates complaints from the public about Ontario government services. André Marin has been the Ombudsman since 2005 and his investigations have sparked numerous government reforms. Currently, Ontario is the only province without Ombudsman oversight in the “MUSH” sector which covers municipalities (except investigations into closed meetings), universities, school boards, hospitals, nursing homes and long-term care facilities, police, and children’s aid societies. Please contact your local MPP to request Ombudsman oversight into the MUSH sector as people with disabilities encounter many challenges within this sector requiring assistance and accountability.
  • Services and Supports to Promote the Social Inclusion of Persons with Developmental Disabilities Act (2008)
    The Services and Supports to Promote the Social Inclusion of Persons with Developmental Disabilities Act, 2008 replaced the Developmental Services Act and is for people with a developmental disability who are age 18 years and older as it pertains to various services and supports.

Disability Organizations

  • Autism Ontario
    Autism Ontario is a registered Canadian Charitable organization that is committed to improving the lives of Canadians affected by Autism.
  • Easter Seals Ontario
    Easter Seals Ontario provides programs and services to children and youth with physical disabilities across Ontario to help them achieve greater independence, accessibility and integration. This includes financial assistance of up to $3 000 per year, per child to help purchase essential mobility equipment such as wheelchair, walkers, ramps or lifts.
  • Group Hug Apparel
    Andrew Banar is a young man living a full life who just happens to have Down Syndrome.  He shares his joy of life via his website and Facebook page.  Andrew offers Group Hug Apparel clothing, as well as offering various recreation programs to do with his friends through the year (Walking with Friends, Aquafit with Friends, Dancing with Friends, Cooking with Friends, etc).  Please check out his Facebook page and website for further information.
  • March of Dimes Canada
    Ontario March of Dimes serves adults age 19 years and older who are physically disabled with a mobility impairment. Various services and programs are offered including friendship, attendant services, home and vehicle modifications, promotion of understanding and acceptance of disabilities, employment services, recreation, acquired brain injury, and more. Contact (800) 263-3463 or (416) 425-3463.
  • Ontario Federation of Cerebral Palsy
    The Ontario Federation for Cerebral Palsy (OFCP) is an organization committed to supporting independence, inclusion, choice and full integration of all persons with cerebral palsy (CP) in Ontario. The OFCP does this by providing and initiating a wide range of services, resources and programs for individuals with CP and their families as well as professional organizations. These services can range from funding for equipment, education and recreation to housing and life planning.
  • Regional Support Associates (RSA)
    Regional Support Associates provides clinical supports aimed at enhancing the quality of life for adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities in their community.

Education/Learning Disabilities

  • Ablenet
    AbleNet is an international company and industry leader in providing educational and technical solutions to help children and adults with disabilities lead productive and fulfilled lives. This includes a complete line of communication aids for nonverbal individuals; access aids for all ages and situations; and special education classroom curriculum that both enhance and help ensure learning progress.
  • Boundless Assistive Technology
    Boundless Assistive Technology proudly offers the world’s best Assistive Technology products, service, and support. With over 30 years of combined industry experience their goal is to provide customers with the best Assistive Technology buying experience.
  • Child and Parent Resource Institute (CPRI)
    CPRI stands for the Child and Parent Resource Institute. They provide highly specialized trauma-informed mental health and developmental services.  These services include Assessment, Consultation, Treatment, Research and Education. They work with  local community services, building on what they have already done.They use evidence based practice and adapt their approach to the unique needs of each child.  Child and Parent Resource Institute (CPRI) provides voluntary services to children and youth with complex mental health and/or developmental challenges. They serve children and youth (and families) on a short term residential and community basis. The services they provide are highly specialized and include assessment, consultation, treatment, research and education. They also provide programs and clinics for children and youth, their families and caregivers.
  • Community Integration Through Cooperative Education (CICE)
    The Community Integration through Cooperative Education (CICE) program is a two-year Ontario College Certificate designed to provide individuals with developmental disabilities and other significant learning challenges with the opportunity to experience college life, pursue a postsecondary education and develop skills which will help them prepare for employment. Students will engage with their peers in courses specific to the CICE program.
  • Conseil scolaire de district des ecoles Catholiques du Sud-Ouest (French Catholic Board)
    The French Catholic School Board.
  • Conseil scolaire de district du Centre-Sud-Ouest (French public board)
    The French Public School Board.
  • Enabling Devices
    Enabling Devices is a company dedicated to developing affordable learning and assistive devices to help people of all ages with disabling conditions. Founded by Steven E. Kanor, Ph.D., and originally known as Toys for Special Children, the company has been creating innovative communicators, toys, and switches for the physically challenged for more than 35 years.
  • Greater Essex County District School Board
    The Greater Essex County District School Board, in partnership with the community, provides learning opportunities which support, challenge and inspire all students to achieve their full potential and enable them to participate meaningfully in their communities.
  • House on Riverside – The Psychological Services and Research Centre
    The purpose of the Centre is to provide services to individuals and support the professional training of graduate students in clinical psychology. Services are provided by doctoral students under the supervision of psychologists who are members of the College of Psychologists of Ontario.In some cases, services may be provided by faculty members who are registered psychologists.
  • Inclusion Canada
    Inclusion Canada, formerly the Canadian Association for Community Living, is the national federation working to advance the full inclusion and human rights of people with an intellectual disability and their families.
  • Inclusive Education Canada
    This web site promotes the Canadian vision for inclusive education. It has been designed as a meeting place for parents, family members, teachers, education officials and community members who are committed to making inclusive education a reality in our communities.
  • Learning Disabilities Association Windsor-Essex County (LDAWE)
    The Learning Disabilities Association of Windsor – Essex County (LDAWE) is a chapter of the Learning Disabilities Association of Ontario (LDAO). The main purpose of LDAWE is to provide information and referral services to individuals, parents, professionals, and other people interested in learning disabilities and ADHD that includes such programs as social skills training for children and adults, basic literacy and math tutoring for children and youth, transition planning for youth and young adults, computer enrichment and adaptive technology training for youth and adults, recreation program, advocacy training for parents, employment supports, workshops, public awareness events, conferences, and a community lending library.
  • Life Skills Training At St. Clair College – in collaboration with Assisted Living Southwestern Ontario (ALSO)
    This program is held at St. Clair College in collaboration with ALSO. This program assists adult students to develop competency in basic living skills. The course is taught 2 nights a week and is 2 hours in duration. Topics include cooking, grooming, money management, transportation, etc.
  • Literacy Program at the Windsor Public Library
    Windsor Public Library offers literacy programs for adults, adults with developmental disabilities, and deaf literacy to help reach personal goals.
  • Ministry of Education
    All students require support from teachers, classmates, family, and friends in order to thrive and to gain full benefit from their school experience. Some students have special needs that require supports beyond those ordinarily received in the school setting. In Ontario, students who have behavioral, communicational, intellectual, physical or multiple exceptionalities, may have educational needs that cannot be met through regular instructional and assessment practices. The Ministry of Education provides online resources regarding the delivery of special education, individualized education plans (IEP), identification, placement, and review committee (IPRC), transition plans, funding, and a variety of resources to foster understanding of special education.
  • Ontario Coalition for Inclusive Education
    The Ontario Coalition for Inclusive Education was created in 1995, by six leading voluntary organizations working toward inclusive communities, to manage the Building Inclusive Schools Project. These organizations included Community Living Ontario, Family Alliance Ontario, Integration Action Group, People First of Ontario, Down Syndrome Association of Ontario, and Youth Involvement Ontario.
  • Ontario Ministry of Education Funding
    Each year the ministry provides funds to school boards through a series of grants. This page contains information on this year’s grants, plus links to information on grants from previous years.
  • Ontario Special Education Tribunals
    The two Ontario Special Education Tribunals (OSETs) hear appeals by parents and guardians who are not satisfied with the school board’s identification or placement of a child with exceptional learning needs.The OSET- English hears appeals from decisions made by English Public and Catholic School Boards.

    • The OSET – French hears appeals from decisions made by French Public and Catholic School Boards.
    • The OSETs hear appeals only after parents have completed all possible appeals at the school board level under the Education Act.
    • The OSETs are two of the eight tribunals that make up Social Justice Tribunals Ontario (SJTO).
  • Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP)
    OSAP is a program for students who are financially disadvantaged that permits access to loans to help fund post-secondary education. Certain accommodations are made for students with disabilities. Eligibility criteria include being a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant, have lived in Ontario for 12 consecutive months prior to post-secondary study or your parents/spouse have lived in Ontario for 12 consecutive months.
  • People for Education
    People for Education is an independent, parent-led organization that is passionate about publicly funded education, and we believe that well-equipped publicly funded schools, with a well-rounded curriculum, provide young people with the best chance for a bright future. They have a toll-free parent-support line to answer your questions about education or provide you with links to the information and resources you might need to help you and your child navigate the education system. To reach them, call (888)534-3944.
  • School Health
    School Health was founded over a decade ago to utilize the power of the web to make Assistive Technology easier to find and more affordable. School Health became the catalyst to bring together consumers and manufacturers of Assistive Technology products. Today School Health is the worldwide leader in Assistive Technology distribution with customers representing all 50 states and over 45 foreign countries. School Health is the one-stop solution for over 3,000 Assistive Technology devices from over 200 manufacturers. School Health excels at finding the right Assistive Technology products to meet customers’ needs.
  • Shared Solutions: A Guide to Preventing & Resolving Conflicts Regarding Programs & Services for Students with Special Education Needs
    This Guide provides strategies for resolving conflicts and promotes collaborative approaches in special education.This Guide in intended for use by educators and families.
  • Special Incidence Portion (SIP) Education Funding
    A health claim or a health and safety claim may be submitted on behalf of a student who, as a consequence of their diagnosed medical condition, is dependent on more than two full-time board paid staff to provide intensive support for activities of daily living including health and/or safety at an age when they would not otherwise be so dependent.
  • Therapeutic Learning Centre Inc.
    Therapeutic Learning Centre is an educational intervention clinic that teaches children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and other developmental or learning disabilities, communication, socialization, and functional learning and living skills using ABA.
  • University of Windsor Student Accessibility Services
    Located in Dillon Hall on the main campus of the University of Windsor, Student Accessibility Services (SAS) is committed to working with the entire campus community in creating equal access to higher education for all academically qualified students who may have disabilities.  They strive to foster an inclusive climate of mutual respect and understanding on the UWindsor campus, so that all students are welcome and able to contribute to the fabric of the university community.
  • Windsor Scottish Rite Learning Rite Learning Centre – Freemasons helping children with dyslexia
    Children at the Windsor Scottish Rite Learning Centre receive one-to-one tutoring in one hour sessions, twice weekly, for approximately 8 months (34 weeks) during the school year. The sessions are given after school on Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday. They  use the Orton-Gillingham approach which is language-based, multisensory, structured, sequential, cumulative, direct, diagnostic and emotionally sound.
  • Windsor-Essex Catholic District School Board
    The stated purpose from their website: “Our Catholic schools will be student-centered, learning-enriched communities where the presence of the Holy Spirit will be truly felt through the daily teachings, celebration and living of the Gospel of Jesus Christ”.
  • Wrightslaw
    Parents, educators, advocates, and attorneys come to Wrightslaw for accurate, reliable information about special education law, education law, and advocacy for children with disabilities. Although this is a website based in the United States, it has great resources and a free online newsletter for tips/resources related to individual education plans, advocacy, and other special education resources.

Employment Services

  • Career Compass: Creating a Diverse & Inclusive Workforce across Essex County
    Career Compass is the name of Community Living Essex County’s modernized Employment Service providing direction to job seekers searching for meaningful employment and guiding employers in inclusive hiring.
  • Coachworx Employment Solutions
    CoachWorx Employment Solutions is a service provider to the Ontario government.  Their staff specialize in assisting persons with disabilities to obtain and maintain employment as well as helping employers to recruit qualified candidates to meet their hiring needs. They are committed to providing each of their clients with specialized, one-on-one, professional, and confidential services designed to meet their unique needs and based on the client’s input.
  • Employment Services Support Program, Canadian Mental Health Association Windsor-Essex County
    The Employment Support Services (ESS) program provides help and continuing support to people with a serious mental illness who are interested and seeking employment in the community as part of their recovery process. The supported employment program is integrated with the Case Management Services at the Branch to ensure that their employment goals are consistent with their individualized recovery plan.
  • Employment Support, Community Living Windsor
    Assists individuals with developmental disabilities find and maintain employment.
  • jobPath
    jobPath is the name of the FREE pre-employment course designed for people who have an intellectual disability and live in Essex County who are over the age of 16 and want to work. This six week course is designed to help job seekers learn more about their own interests, strengths, and skills while improving through a combination of in-class activities, learning from guest speakers, and real world experience from day trips to a variety of workplaces in the community. A short term work placement is also included after the six week course. The job seeker’s interests and skills are considered, along with the business needs of local businesses to ensure the best possible job match for both the job seeker and the business they will be working at.
  • Unemployed Help Centre
    A non-profit charitable organization dedicated to meeting the needs of the unemployed and economically challenged in Windsor-Essex County. Resume and employment skills training and assistance seeking employment are just a few of the services offered.

Entertainment

  • Enabling Devices
    Enabling Devices is a company dedicated to developing affordable learning and assistive devices to help people of all ages with disabling conditions. Founded by Steven E. Kanor, Ph.D., and originally known as Toys for Special Children, the company has been creating innovative communicators, toys, and switches for the physically challenged for more than 35 years.
  • Ontario Camps Association
    Guide to camps working towards inclusion that may have resources for people with special needs. Please contact camps directly for details and accommodations.
  • Summer Camps for Children with Special Needs
    Summer camps for children with special needs are designed to provide extra help for kids requiring physical, emotional, behavourial or medical support

Equipment & Medical Supplies

  • Assistive Devices Program
    The objective of the Assistive Devices Program (ADP) provides funding to Ontario residents who have long-term physical disabilities and to provide access to personalized assistive devices appropriate for the individual’s basic needs.
  • Clinical Orthotics Consultants of Windsor
    Clinical Orthotic Consultants of Windsor was established to provide service for the local pediatric population that required custom orthopedic bracing. Since their beginning, pediatrics has been the focus of our practice, but our quality bracing and dedicated staff, have enabled us to expand to serve the growing need in the adult population.
  • Home – Wellwise by Shoppers Drug Mart (Formerly Shoppers Home Health Care)
    Home – Wellwise by Shoppers Drug Mart (Formerly Shoppers Home Health Care)focuses on providing Canadians with the most complete selection of specialty home health care products and services, tailored to meet their specific needs for health recovery and maintenance.
  • Maxim Medical Supplies
    Maxim Medical Supplies is a locally owned and operated distribution company with a versatile focus ranging from Home Health Care and Mobility products to Hospital and Physician supplies.
  • Motion Specialties
    Motion Specialties began in 1985, in Toronto, providing comprehensive home health care and accessibility solutions for a wide variety of clients from children to elderly adults. Motion Specialties is Canada’s most technologically advanced Home Health Care provider, with a store network of 24 locations across Canada.
  • Tetra Society of North America
    Tetra recruits skilled volunteers – engineers and technicians – to create assistive devices for people with specific needs that cannot be met by commercial items. Everything created through Tetra is unique, custom made for one person’s particular needs. The work is all done by volunteers within the client’s own community. Clients don’t have to be quadriplegic and projects don’t have to be daily living aids – many are about having fun or about work. Tetra volunteers work with people with a wide range of medical conditions, ages, needs and interests. They also work closely with health professionals and caregivers, many of whom request Tetra’s assistance on behalf of their clients. Similarly, Tetra works hand-in-hand with family members, who can also submit requests for assistance. Tetra’s focus is on quality of life – anything that overcomes a barrier of some sort or otherwise enhances someone’s ability to participate in all aspects of life, including work, family, community affairs and recreation.

Financial Resources

  • Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities
    The Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities Program helps parents with some of the extra costs of caring for a child who has a severe disability.
  • Canada Revenue Agency Tax Information for People with Disabilities
    Canada Revenue Agency tax information for people with disabilities
  • Child Disability Benefits
    The Child Disability Benefit (CDB) is a tax-free benefit for families who care for a child under age 18 with a severe and prolonged impairment in mental or physical functions. Recipients must meet the following criteria: be the primary caregivers of a child under age 18 with a severe and prolonged impairment in mental or physical functions. Other criteria may apply.
  • Disability Tax Credit
    Attach a complete T2201 form to your income tax form
  • Easter Seals Ontario
    Easter Seals Ontario provides programs and services to children and youth with physical disabilities across Ontario to help them achieve greater independence, accessibility and integration. This includes financial assistance of up to $3 000 per year, per child to help purchase essential mobility equipment such as wheelchair, walkers, ramps or lifts.
  • Individualized Funding Coalition
    They are a ‘coalition’ of: people with disabilities, families, friends, advocates, facilitators, organizations and agencies working together to move individualized funding forward in Ontario. They support the self-determination of persons with disabilities. They believe that all people should have control over decisions concerning where they live, with whom they live, with whom they associate and how they spend their lives. They believe that the person requiring assistance, supported by family and/or others, should have access to and control over the funds allocated for his/her supports.
  • Individualized Funding Library
    The Individualized Funding Library is a website to help you learn how to find and use your Individualized Funding.
  • Inspiring Possibilities Estate Planning Guide: A Tax, Benefits, Trusts, and Wills Toolkit for Ontarians with Disabilities from Community Living Ontario
    Written by legal, tax and accounting professionals who specialize in supporting people who have a disability and their loved ones, the 112-page, seven-chapter digital book provides pertinent information on various topics including Will and Trust planning, consent, capacity and legal decision-making, the Ontario Disability Support Program, the Disability Tax Credit and the Registered Disability Savings Plan.
  • March of Dimes Canada
    Ontario March of Dimes serves adults age 19 years and older who are physically disabled with a mobility impairment. Various services and programs are offered including friendship, attendant services, home and vehicle modifications, promotion of understanding and acceptance of disabilities, employment services, recreation, acquired brain injury, and more. Contact (800) 263-3463 or (416) 425-3463.
  • Ontario Child Care Tax Credit
    Starting with the 2019 tax year, the government is providing families with a tax credit to help reduce child care costs. Ontario’s Child Care Tax Credit gives parents the flexibility to access a broad range of child care choices, including care in centres, homes, camps, and other settings.
  • Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)
    The Ontario Disability Support Program helps people with disabilities who are in financial need pay for living expenses, like food and housing.
  • Ontario Federation of Cerebral Palsy
    The Ontario Federation for Cerebral Palsy (OFCP) is an organization committed to supporting independence, inclusion, choice and full integration of all persons with cerebral palsy (CP) in Ontario. The OFCP does this by providing and initiating a wide range of services, resources and programs for individuals with CP and their families as well as professional organizations. These services can range from funding for equipment, education and recreation to housing and life planning.
  • Registered Disability Savings Program (RDSP)
    The Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) is a long-term savings plan to help Canadians with disabilities and their families save for the future.

Friendship & Socialization

  • 101 Ways to Facilitate Making Friends: How to Engage and Deepen Support Networks for People with Disabilities (Book) by Aaron Johannes & Susan Stanfield
    On its own or as a companion to the popular 101 Ways to Make Friends: ideas and conversation starters for people with disabilities and their supporters this collection of strategies is for parents, leaders and teachers of all kinds. Each idea is discussed with examples of how we or other facilitators have used it in our work with groups, in the community with individuals or have used it to prepare our communities for successful inclusion.
  • 101 Ways to Make Friends: Ideas and Conversation Starters (Book) by Aaron Johannes & Susan Stanfield
    This plain language and graphics text is being used in self-advocate groups, classrooms and by individuals and facilitators of various kinds. This collection of ideas is based on conversations with people with disabilities, their friends, families, neighbors and networks about what had been successful for them as they expanded and deepened their networks. We know a circle of friends ensures more safety, that people will be healthier and happier and that they and their communities will be more resilient. It’s now time to engage in the conversations about how to make sure it happens – and it turns out to be a conversation full of joy, success and great examples of leadership on all levels.
  • Best Buddies
    Students are paired in one-to-one relationships with individuals with intellectual disabilities from September to April. Recreation, leisure and organized group activities are planned to assist with facilitating friendships. Participation: all adults with intellectual disabilities can apply. Participation in program is dependant upon the availability of a compatible student buddy.  Time: April-September.  Cost: Free.  Contact: University of Windsor Chapter at,  windsor@bestbuddies.ca or St. Clair College Chapter at stclair_windsor@bestbuddies.ca
  • Friends and Inclusion (Book) by Peggy Hutchison & John Lord with Karen Lord
    It’s about relationships! It’s that simple and that complex. But that is true for all of us; it takes work to build and sustain friendships. If you happen to experience a disability, building relationships must be even more intentional. It is just a matter of degree. We all need to Belong.
  • Group Hug Apparel
    Andrew Banar is a young man living a full life who just happens to have Down Syndrome.  He shares his joy of life via his website and Facebook page.  Andrew offers Group Hug Apparel clothing, as well as offering various recreation programs to do with his friends through the year (Walking with Friends, Aquafit with Friends, Dancing with Friends, Cooking with Friends, etc).  Please check out his Facebook page and website for further information.
  • My Community Hub
    MyCommunityHub is an online registration space for activities, classes, programs, workshops, respite and camps offered by Developmental Service Agencies across Ontario.
  • Ontario Camps Association
    Guide to camps working towards inclusion that may have resources for people with special needs. Please contact camps directly for details and accommodations.
  • Our Presence has Roots (Book) by Janet Klees
    At the heart of this book is the belief that relationships (more than services, programs, or financial resources) will best safeguard the lives of people with disabilities over time. Through stories and analysis of proven strategies, this book speaks directly to family, friends, and community builders of all kinds as it outlines ways to think about, invite, welcome and nourish relationship in the lives of people with disabilities. Its chapters describe a context from which the opportunity for relationship may thrive, including the importance of place (home, the housing co-operative, the wider community), of holding valued social roles in community, and of being present with other typical citizens with good support.
  • Roots 2 Wings
    Daytime programs, friendship club, and special events. The Daytime Program is for ages 18 years and up and runs Mondays to Fridays from 9am-3pm. Before and after program care is available upon request. Activities focus on socialization, integration, independent living, self-help skills, program activities on-site and within the community.  An individual plan is developed by ROOTS 2 WINGS, by the person and their family/caregiver.
  • The Bridge Leamington Youth Resource Centre
    The Bridge is inclusive, open to ALL youth ages 14-24 (support workers are welcome to attend if needed). It is open 9am-8pm Monday to Friday.
  • Youth Diversion Essex County
    The Essex County Diversion Program serves youth ages 12 – 17 throughout Windsor and Essex County that provides a series of eight youth programs that focus on building confidence, making healthy decisions and improving communication.

Government

  • Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS)
    The programs of the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services help to build communities that are resilient, inclusive and sustained by the economic and civic contributions of all Ontarians.  Their major programs are: Social Assistance (Ontario Works and Ontario Disability Support Program), Community and Developmental Services, the Family Responsibility Office and Ontario’s Strategy to end Human Trafficking.
  • Ministry of Education
    All students require support from teachers, classmates, family, and friends in order to thrive and to gain full benefit from their school experience. Some students have special needs that require supports beyond those ordinarily received in the school setting. In Ontario, students who have behavioral, communicational, intellectual, physical or multiple exceptionalities, may have educational needs that cannot be met through regular instructional and assessment practices. The Ministry of Education provides online resources regarding the delivery of special education, individualized education plans (IEP), identification, placement, and review committee (IPRC), transition plans, funding, and a variety of resources to foster understanding of special education.
  • Ministry of Health and Long-term Care
    The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care is working to establish a patient-focused, results-driven, integrated and sustainable publicly funded health system. Its plan for building a sustainable public health care system in Ontario is based on helping people stay healthy, delivering good care when people need it, and protecting the health system for future generations.
  • Ontario Photo Identification Card
    An Ontario photo identification card was introduced to make it easier for people who do not have a driver’s license to travel, open a bank account, and perform any other activities that require official ID. Ontarians with disabilities, seniors and other advocacy groups provided input on the design and availability of the card. Ontario residents who are 16 and older were able to apply for the new photo ID card at Service Ontario Centres, (800) 387-3445.  In Windsor-Essex County, the card is available at Service Ontario, 400 City Hall Square, Windsor.

Health Services (Mental & Physical)

  • Canadian Mental Health Association Windsor-Essex County Branch
    The Canadian Mental Health Association Windsor-Essex County Branch has been part of the health care delivery system of this community since 2006 and is committed to the provision of mental health services.
  • Caring Hands Foot Care
    Caring Hands Foot Care is a professional and reliable home nursing foot care service provided to clients of all ages and specialized needs within the Leamington area.
  • Child and Parent Resource Institute (CPRI)
    CPRI stands for the Child and Parent Resource Institute. They provide highly specialized trauma-informed mental health and developmental services.  These services include Assessment, Consultation, Treatment, Research and Education. They work with  local community services, building on what they have already done.They use evidence based practice and adapt their approach to the unique needs of each child.  Child and Parent Resource Institute (CPRI) provides voluntary services to children and youth with complex mental health and/or developmental challenges. They serve children and youth (and families) on a short term residential and community basis. The services they provide are highly specialized and include assessment, consultation, treatment, research and education. They also provide programs and clinics for children and youth, their families and caregivers.
  • Dual Diagnosis Outreach Stabilization Service
    The purpose of this program is to assess, consult, and provide treatment recommendation to individuals, who have a pre-existing developmental disability, and, are also suffering from a Mental Health disorder. In Ontario, this combination is defined “Dual Diagnosis”. The program staff consists of a Registered Nurse with a psychiatric background and a Psychiatrist. The Psychiatrist also provides support and consultation to the Dual Diagnosis nurse from the Chatham-Kent area.
  • Dual Diagnosis Program
    The Dual Diagnosis program provides services to individuals who have a pre-existing developmental disability, and mental illness. The program psychiatrist assists in consultations and follow-up recommendations for treatment for individuals requiring this service. Service includes: assessment; information, education and referral services; support, coordinate services and links to resources that an individual may need; service plan based on individual needs; supportive counseling; crisis-planning, crisis intervention and crisis prevention; assistance with symptom and behavior management; medication support; skill-development; family support and education; advocacy; and public/professional education.
  • Emergency Binder from Windsor-Essex Dual Diagnosis Committee
    This Emergency Binder was developed by the Windsor Essex Dual Diagnosis Committee as a way to help families & caregivers. There may be times when you need to accompany your loved one to the hospital in a Mental Health Crisis. It can be very hard when you are dealing with a crisis, and after trying everything you can think of, you may feel the only thing you can do is go to the Emergency Room (ER) with your family member. If this binder is kept up to date, it should help make things easier for you at the hospital. The binder can be given to the Triage Nurse in the ER and she/he can copy the important information the hospital needs to set up a chart. Windsor Essex Emergency Binder – Revised 2016 (PDF – print off and fill out), Windsor Essex ER binder – word fillable – June 2016   (Word Fillable form – download, fill out on computer before printing it off).
  • Erie St. Clair – Local Health Integration Network (LHIN)
    The Community Care Access Centre (CCAC) connect people with the care they need at home, coordinates care in their community through specialized support services, and provides information about long-term care options. The Windsor-Essex CCAC is funded through the Erie-St. Clair Health Integration Network so advice and services are covered by tax dollars and OHIP.
  • Health Care Access Research and Developmental Disabilities
    H-CARDD envisions an Ontario in which individuals with developmental disabilities receive better health care services and improved overall health. Health care policy in Ontario promotes client-centred care that is high-quality, efficient, and based on research evidence. For example, Ontario’s Action Plan for Health Care emphasizes the importance of becoming healthier and improving access to care. These priorities are especially relevant to individuals with developmental disabilities. They are more likely to have preventable health problems, have a harder time accessing primary and emergency care and have greater health care costs. It is not uncommon for them to fall through the cracks. The work of H-CARDD is aligned with recent provincial policy including the Ontario Women’s Health Framework, Open Minds, Health Minds: Ontario’s Comprehensive Mental Health and Addictions strategy, the Aging at Home Strategy, and the Joint Policy Guideline for the Provision of Community Mental Health and Developmental Services for Adults with a Dual Diagnosis. H-CARDD is also committed to health equity. Reflecting Ontario’s Action Plan for Health Care, H-CARDD believes that individuals with developmental disabilities should have access to the right care, at the right time, in the right place.
  • Healthy Babies, Healthy Children (HBHC)
    The HBHC program is for pregnant women and families with children up to six years old. The program is voluntary and FREE for all families in Windsor and Essex County. A team of public health nurses and family home visitors assists families with parenting and the promotion of healthy child development. Location: 1005 Ouellette Ave Windsor Ontario, N9J 4J8.   Time: Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm.  Contact: Intake nurse at (519) 258-2164,  ext. 1350, or (800) 265-5822.
  • Hotel-Dieu Grace Healthcare Regional Children’s Centre
    The Regional Children’s Centre is an accredited children’s mental health centre serving children and adolescents who are dealing with social, emotional, developmental, and/or behavioural issues, and their families. The Centre offers a variety of crisis stabilization, diagnostic, assessment, treatment, and consultative services designed to promote healthy functioning of children, youth, and their families within the home, school, and community. The Centre offers on-site out-patient and residential services and community based programs.
  • Maryvale
    Maryvale is a Children’s Mental Health treatment centre in Windsor, Ontario, where adolescents experiencing very serious emotional, psychological and mental distress can receive therapy and assistance from a team of experts. They help young people (aged 11 to 17) and their families who feel highly anxious, depressed, suicidal, worthless and hopeless, or who have lost their willingness to care about others. They may be dealing with debilitating learning disabilities. Maryvale’s students stay for as short as 7 days to several months or years. Others attend only during the day, for after school or for weekend respite and activities.
  • Mental Health Connections Program
    Mental Health Connections provides integrated psychosocial rehabilitation services to Windsor-Essex County adults with mental illness during their recovery process. Our centre is a welcoming environment in which individuals can strive to maximize their potential by accessing a variety of strategies for recovery – social, recreational, fitness, educations, vocational and peer support activities – both on site and in the community. Family members of individuals with a mental illness are also offered support and education.
  • Mental Health Response Unit
    This is a team comprised of a mental health clinician and a specially trained, plain clothed police officer who respond to community concerns involving individuals who may be experiencing a mental health crisis. Call if a person has chronic and persistent mental illness and frequent contact with police and/or the emergency room. Calls also taken when a person’s functioning is declining and intervention is required to prevent hospitalization, or when a person is unable to or reluctant to access mental health services. Do not call if the person may harm themselves or others or if medical attention required, in those cases please call 911. The purpose is to decrease stigmatization, marginalization, and frequency of police contacts and mental health crisis with a goal of breaking the ineffective incarceration and hospitalization cycle. Referrals are anonymous. Contact: (519) 723-4600 or email: oppmhru@hdgh.org .
  • Ministry of Health and Long-term Care
    The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care is working to establish a patient-focused, results-driven, integrated and sustainable publicly funded health system. Its plan for building a sustainable public health care system in Ontario is based on helping people stay healthy, delivering good care when people need it, and protecting the health system for future generations.
  • Regional Support Associates (RSA)
    Regional Support Associates provides clinical supports aimed at enhancing the quality of life for adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities in their community.
  • TeleHealth Ontario
    Free Access to a Registered Nurse – 24 Hours a day, 7 days a Week. Now help is close at hand. One does not need to provide their health insurance number and all information is confidential. (866) 797-0000 or TTY : (866) 797-0007.  Telehealth Ontario is a free, confidential telephone service that can be called to get health advice or general health information from a Registered Nurse.  They can help to decide whether to care for oneself, make an appointment with their doctor, go to a clinic, contact a community service or go to a hospital emergency room.
  • WECH Partnership with John McGivney Children’s Centre
    Dee Chooti and Kelly Humphrey are Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioners who have experience working with people with developmental disabilities. They can be reached at the Windsor Essex County Health Unit;  Dee Chooti (519) 258-6002, ext 239 or Kelly Humphrey (519) 258-6002 ext 133.  They are at the John Mcgivney Children’s Centre on  Tuesdays/Wednesdays and can be reached at (519) 252-7281 ext 287.
  • Windsor-Essex Community Health Centre
    The Windsor Essex Community Health Centre (WECHC) is the result of an amalgamation of the Teen Health and Sandwich Community Health Centre in 2009 and supports the health and wellness of vulnerable populations through its various program locations that include the Teen Health Centre, Street Health Centre, Sandwich Community Health Centre, Chronic Disease Centre, and the Falls Prevention Program.
  • Youth Diversion Essex County
    The Essex County Diversion Program serves youth ages 12 – 17 throughout Windsor and Essex County that provides a series of eight youth programs that focus on building confidence, making healthy decisions and improving communication.

Housing

  • Assisted Living Southwestern Ontario
    This agency continues the service tradition of the Association for Persons With Physical Disabilities of Windsor and Essex County by providing adults with physical disabilities with services that ensure they are able to live, work and play in the community with choice, opportunities, and the confidence of full citizenship. Various services include attendant services, supportive housing, outreach, respite, social recreation, employment services, and client intervention services.
  • Central Housing Registry Windsor-Essex County (CHR)
    The Central Housing Registry – Windsor Essex County (CHR) maintains a centralized waiting list for most social housing providers in Windsor and Essex County. CHR determines eligibility for rent-geared-to-income (RGI) housing. CHR does not make offers of accommodation or provide emergency housing but can provide information about transitional housing or shelters in the area.
  • Community Living Essex County
    Community Living Essex County is a not-for-profit charitable organization has been committed to assisting people of all ages who have an intellectual disability and their families throughout Essex County since 1961.
  • Community Living Windsor
    Community Living Windsor provides supports and services to people who have an intellectual disability in the Windsor community, serving over 500 families since 1952.
  • March of Dimes Canada
    Ontario March of Dimes serves adults age 19 years and older who are physically disabled with a mobility impairment. Various services and programs are offered including friendship, attendant services, home and vehicle modifications, promotion of understanding and acceptance of disabilities, employment services, recreation, acquired brain injury, and more. Contact (800) 263-3463 or (416) 425-3463.
  • My Home, My Choice
    A resource guide created by Windsor-Essex Family Network and Resource Centre that explains home options for people with disabilities. Call (519) 974-1008 or email info@windsoressexfamnet.ca.
  • Nor-Built Construction
    Construction company specializing in building and modifying accessible homes.
  • Reaume Homes
    Construction company with experience building/modifying accessible homes.
  • Francis Advocates
    St. Francis Advocates was established in 1984 to advocate for people with Autism and their families. Our name was taken from St. Francis of Assisi, because of his love of animals and nature and his need to protect them. St. Francis Advocates operates 12 residential homes across Lambton, Kent and Essex Counties, supporting adults with Autism and/or other Developmental Disabilities. Residentially, people learn self- help skills that are essential for more independent living along with enjoying leisure and community activities. St. Francis Advocates’ philosophy is to provide a “family like” environment to everyone supported. We believe that each person is unique and therefore opportunities explored are based on needs and interests.

Legal

  • ARCH Disability Law Centre
    ARCH Disability Law Centre is a specialty community legal aid clinic dedicated to defending and advancing the equality rights of people with disabilities in Ontario. ARCH provides legal services to help Ontarians with disabilities live with dignity and participate fully in their communities. They work with Ontarians with disabilities and the disability community on law reform and policy initiatives, community development, legal advice and referrals, public legal education and litigation.
  • Attorney General Guide to Power of Attorney and Living Will
    Attorney General’s guide to power of attorney and living will.
  • Community Legal Aid
    Free legal services are provided by legal students and are available to those who qualify financially and jurisdictionally. Services include landlord-tenant, highway traffic and provincial offenses, minor criminal matter, Criminal Injuries Compensation Board applications, non-profit incorporation and charitable status applications, name changes, and criminal pardons. Affidavits and notarization is a small fee. Service is available to the public ages 16 years and older. Contact at (519) 255-7822.
  • Community Legal Education Ontario
    Since 1974, CLEO (Community Legal Education Ontario / Éducation juridique communautaire Ontario) has developed clear, accurate, and practical legal rights education and information to help people understand and exercise their legal rights.  Their work focuses on providing information to people who face barriers to accessing the justice system, including income, disability, literacy, and language. As a community legal clinic and part of Ontario’s legal aid system, they work in partnership with other legal clinics and community organizations across the province.
  • Continuing Power of Attorney for Property Brochure
    Continuing Power of Attorney for Property Brochure by Community Legal Education Ontario.
  • Continuing Power of Attorney for Property by Community Legal Education Ontario
    A Power of Attorney is a legal document that gives someone else the power to act on one’s behalf. This person is called their “attorney”. In Canada the word “attorney” usually does not mean lawyer, as it does in the USA. One can give someone a Power of Attorney for Property if one wants them to help you manage their finances, or one is worried about becoming unable to manage them. A Continuing Power of Attorney for Property lets one’s attorney go on acting for them if one become mentally incapable of managing one’s property. To be valid for this purpose, the document must either be called a Continuing Power of Attorney, or state that it gives one’s attorney the power to continue acting for them if one become mentally incapable.
  • Inspiring Possibilities Estate Planning Guide: A Tax, Benefits, Trusts, and Wills Toolkit for Ontarians with Disabilities from Community Living Ontario
    Written by legal, tax and accounting professionals who specialize in supporting people who have a disability and their loved ones, the 112-page, seven-chapter digital book provides pertinent information on various topics including Will and Trust planning, consent, capacity and legal decision-making, the Ontario Disability Support Program, the Disability Tax Credit and the Registered Disability Savings Plan.
  • Law Society of Upper Canada Lawyer & Paralegal Referral Service
    The Law Society Referral Service (LSRS) connects lawyers and paralegals to people looking for assistance with a legal matter. They will provide  the name of a lawyer or licensed paralegal that will provide a free consultation of up to 30 minutes to help  determine rights and options.  Their services can be accessed by calling (800) 268-8326 or by accessing the on-line request form.
  • Legal Aid Ontario-Essex County
    Legal aid services for people seeking legal advice. Representation mainly in areas of family law, criminal, immigration and mental health. Eligibility is age 16 years and older. Clients may be required to contribute to the cost of legal services depending upon financial assessment. Individuals must meet financial criteria and proof of financial status before application. Contact (519) 255-7822, 185 City Hall Square, Windsor, Ontario, N9A 6W5.
  • Legal Assistance of Windsor
    Legal Assistance of Windsor (LAW) is a clinical learning project of the University of Windsor, Faculty of Law. Operating in downtown Windsor, the community legal clinic provides free legal advice, social work services and is staffed by lawyers, law students, social workers and social work students. They specialize in areas of law that are particularly important to low income clients such as entitlement to public and government benefits, tenant protection, criminal injuries compensation, affidavits, advocacy, family and individual counseling, and crisis intervention. Contact (519) 256-7831, 85 Pitt Street East, Windsor, Ontario, N9A 2V3 or Leamington Mall, 215 Talbot Street East, Leamington, Ontario, N8H 3X5.
  • Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee
    A Power of Attorney is a legal document that gives someone else the right to act on one’s behalf. The Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee has a Power of Attorney Kit to assist in establishing guardianship. Ontario has a provision for a Public Guardian and Trustee who can act on behalf of citizens who are mentally incapable of dealing with their own finances and where there is no one else who can do so. A physician or health care practitioner who has been trained as an “assessor” has the authority to determine whether a person requires a substitute decision-maker to act on his/her behalf. Where no attorney for property has been appointed, or the person appointed is unable to act, the Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee (OPGT) becomes the statutory guardian of property once an individual has been assessed as incapable of managing property and found in need of such assistance.
  • Ontario Consent and Capacity Board
    An independent body created by the provincial government of Ontario under the Health Care Consent Act. It conducts hearings under the Mental Health Act, the Health Care Consent Act, the Personal Health Information Protection Act, the Substitute Decisions Act and the Mandatory Blood Testing Act. Board members are psychiatrists, lawyers and members of the general public appointed by the Lieutenant Governor in Council.
  • Ontario Human Rights Code
    Ontario’s Human Rights Code was enacted in1962 and prohibits actions that discriminate against people based on a protected ground in a protected social area.
  • Ontario Photo Identification Card
    An Ontario photo identification card was introduced to make it easier for people who do not have a driver’s license to travel, open a bank account, and perform any other activities that require official ID. Ontarians with disabilities, seniors and other advocacy groups provided input on the design and availability of the card. Ontario residents who are 16 and older were able to apply for the new photo ID card at Service Ontario Centres, (800) 387-3445.  In Windsor-Essex County, the card is available at Service Ontario, 400 City Hall Square, Windsor.
  • Power of Attorney
    A Power of Attorney is a legal document that gives someone else the right to act on one’s behalf. There are there different kinds of Power of Attorney.  1) A Continuing Power of Attorney for Property (CPOA) covers one’s financial affairs and allows the person named to act for  a person even if one becomes mentally incapable.  2) A non-continuing Power of Attorney for Property covers  financial affairs but can’t be used if one becomes mentally incapable. This would be used, for example, if one needs someone to look after their financial transactions while away from home for an extended period of time.  3) A Power of Attorney for Personal Care (POAPC) covers personal decisions, such as housing and health care.   No one can make someone sign a power of attorney if  they don’t want to. But, if someone doesn’t choose one, the government may have to appoint someone to make certain decisions for that person. It’s better if one chooses someone they feel they can really trust and who knows their wishes.
  • Power of Attorney Personal Care Brochure
    Community Legal Education Ontario Power of Attorney Personal Care Brochure
  • Power of Attorney Personal Care from Community Legal Education Ontario
    A Power of Attorney is a legal document that gives someone else the power to act on one’s behalf. This person is called one’s “attorney”. In Canada the word “attorney” usually does not mean lawyer, as it does in the USA. Personal care decisions are decisions about one’s health care and medical treatment, diet, housing, clothing, hygiene, and safety.  One can give someone a Power of Attorney for Personal Care if that person want them to make personal care decisions on their behalf if they become mentally incapable of making them themself. This is sometimes called a “personal power of attorney”.
  • Pro Bono Law Ontario
    Pro Bono Law Ontario is a charity founded in 2001 to bridge the justice gap between lawyers who want to give back and the many Ontarians who can’t afford legal services and have a legal problem not covered by government funding. The Child Advocacy Project (CAP) is a registered project of Pro Bono Law Ontario that defends the education rights of children and youth across Ontario that utilizes volunteer lawyers trained in Education Law.
  • The Human Rights Tribunal (HRTO)
    On June 30, 2008, the Human Rights Code Amendment Act 2006 came into force. As of that date, all claims of discrimination under the Human Rights Code are dealt with through applications filed directly with the Human Rights Tribunal of Ontario. The Tribunal’s primary role is to provide an expeditious and accessible process to assist parties to resolve applications through mediation, and to decide those applications where the parties are unable to reach a resolution through settlement.
  • Your Legal Rights
    a website of legal information for people in Ontario. This site has free, practical, and easy-to-find legal information produced by hundreds of organizations across Ontario.

Family Groups

  • A Family Like Mine – BLOOM
    Videos from BLOOM, showing various families living with children with special needs.
  • Autism High Functioning Group
    A group geared towards supporting parents raising children with high functioning autism/Asperger’s. Meetings are held once a month between September through June. Location, St Mathews Church Hall, 1600 Norfolk Windsor ON, N9E 1H5. Contact: Ann Hucal at (519) 972-8381 or (519) 972-9277.
  • Autism Ontario Parent’s Support Group
    Support group through Autism Ontario Windsor-Essex Chapter for Parents. For further information or questions please contact at Autism Ontario Windsor Essex Chapter at (519) 250-1893 or autismwindsor@gmail.com.
  • Brain Injury Association of Windsor-Essex County
    The Brain Injury Association of Windsor-Essex County develops, provides and disseminates information and educational tools that define, discuss and describe all aspects of acquired brain injury. They also track, analyze and report on related acquired brain injury data through in-house questionnaires and bring to the public’s attention the definition and effects of acquired brain injuries.
  • Canadian Association of Muslims with Disabilities
    Canadian Association of Muslims with Disabilities is a not for profit federally incorporated association of Muslims with disabilities whose vision is an inclusive society that realizes the principles of accessibility.
  • Deohaeko Support Network
    Deohaeko Support Network is a group of families who came together nearly 20 years ago to think about and plan for good lives for our young adult sons and daughters who have a developmental disability. We began by thinking about where they would live in the near future – what kind of place would they come to call home and what it might look like. After much research and discussion, we had a good idea of the kind of welcoming, typical place we thought would work best. We took advantage of a federal-provincial government cost-sharing arrangement to design and have built Rougemount Co-operative in Pickering.
  • Friendship Circle
    The Friendship Circle of West Bloomfield, Michigan provides programs and support for children with special needs, siblings, and their families.
  • Grandparents Support Group
    Grandparent faces double sorrow – for their child and their grandchild -when they hear a diagnosis of Autism. As grandparents we want to do all that we can to support our family. We invite all grandparents to join our Grandparents Support Group. Meetings are held at the Gino Marcus Centre at 1168 Drouillard, Windsor, on Monday nights from 6:00 pm-8:00 pm, parents also welcome. Contact Livia for more information, windsor@autismontario.com.
  • Holland Bloorview Parenting Resource – BLOOM
    New Special Needs Parenting Resource, Special needs disabilty parenting – BLOOM.
  • OM21
    OM21 is Opportunities Mississauga-a “grass roots” organization based in Mississauga, Ontario,  comprised of parents and concerned citizens who want to improve current and future services for our intellectually handicapped children, and adults. They work with community groups, agencies and businesses to expand services and facilities for intellectually disabled adults and their families.
  • Scarborough Residential Alternatives
    Scarborough Residential Alternatives are parents of developmentally handicapped young adults. Because there are almost no funded residential places available for their children, they are examining ways to create their own residential alternatives for lifelong living arrangements. They are determined to successfully create the best possible living arrangements for their children, using all resources, governmental and otherwise, that are available to them. They welcome the participation of any parents or caregivers who find themselves in a similar situation and want to join us in building their children’s future.
  • Sibling Collaborative
    The Sibling Collaborative is a partnership of adults with a brother or sister with a DD who have come together with the purpose: To Connect Siblings and Strengthen Families. The Sibling Collaborative has a core set of values that guides our work:

    • Realizing Change with Compassion: We take action with the critical input and consideration of our brothers and sisters with a DD and our families.* Mutual Respect: We give people agency over their own lives, with consideration for all those involved.
    • Collective Solutions: We find a way forward by learning, working and co-creating together.
    • Unlocking Potential: We hold a big and bold vision for our brothers and sisters as well as our families. Our intrinsic creativity and resourcefulness knows no limit.
    • In addition to the website, they also have an active Facebook group, https://www.facebook.com/groups/siblingnetwork/about/.
  • Up About Down, The Windsor-Essex Down Syndrome Association
    Up About Down is an organization of people committed to enhancing the quality of life for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. We strive to provide positive and accurate information through advocacy and education thereby raising awareness throughout the community.
  • Windsor-Essex Family Network and Resource Centre
    Windsor-Essex Family Network and Resource Centre is a network of parents, brothers, sisters and friends who have come together to promote inclusion and well-being of children and adults living with disability while serving to empower people whose lives have been affected by a disability.

Personal Care Services

  • Amy’s Helping Hands
    Amy’s Helping Hands is a local family-owned private home health care agency focused on providing quality care to the Windsor-Essex community that includes companion, personal support, and registered nursing services. Caregivers assist with errands, incidental transportation, medical monitoring, companionship and stimulating activities, light housekeeping, laundry, dressing and grooming, and personal care needs. Service is custom-tailored and some insurance plans cover their service.
  • Comfort Keepers
    Comfort Keepers of Canada offers quality in-home care.  They offer their clients a wide variety of services from personal care and companionship, meal preparation and light housekeeping, to more specialized care. Location: 3690 Walker Rd, Suite # 1, Windsor, Ontario, N8W 3S7.  Contact: (519) 946-1001.
  • Erie St. Clair – Local Health Integration Network (LHIN)
    The Community Care Access Centre (CCAC) connect people with the care they need at home, coordinates care in their community through specialized support services, and provides information about long-term care options. The Windsor-Essex CCAC is funded through the Erie-St. Clair Health Integration Network so advice and services are covered by tax dollars and OHIP.
  • Revera Home Health
    They offer a variety of service and care options to suit individual needs and preferences. Their dedicated Home Health employees deliver customized services through 35 Canadian sites, helping clients to continue to live independently in the comfort and freedom of their own homes.
  • Elizabeth
    We offer a wide range of home health care services provided by registered nurses, personal support workers, community health workers, and rehab therapists.

Planning Services

  • Future Planning Tool – securing a future plan for your loved one with a disability
    A guide developed by PLAN (planned life advocacy network) to help develop a future plan for your loved one with a disability.
  • Inspiring Possibilities Estate Planning Guide: A Tax, Benefits, Trusts, and Wills Toolkit for Ontarians with Disabilities from Community Living Ontario
    Written by legal, tax and accounting professionals who specialize in supporting people who have a disability and their loved ones, the 112-page, seven-chapter digital book provides pertinent information on various topics including Will and Trust planning, consent, capacity and legal decision-making, the Ontario Disability Support Program, the Disability Tax Credit and the Registered Disability Savings Plan.
  • Ontario Independent Facilitation Network (OIFN)
    The (OIFN) is a provincial network and community of practice whose purpose is to inform, educate, encourage, support, link, and promote independent facilitation and planning in Ontario. The site serves as a recourse and information hub for the Network which strives to include independent facilitators, people who have a developmental disability, families, and agency representatives from across the province who are committed to the development and preservation of a community of practice of independent facilitation and planning in Ontario. For more information visit their website, or contact info@oifn.ca .
  • Partners for Planning Network
    A network collaboration of non-profits, professionals, organizations that are a planning resource for families caring for someone with an intellectual, physical, or mental health disability.
  • Transition Planning for Youth with Developmental Disabilities
    The purpose of this website is to give parents and others who support young people with disabilities some tips, resources and practical information to help plan for the transition to life as an adult.
  • Windsor-Essex Brokerage for Personal Supports
    Windsor Essex Brokerage for Personal Supports is funded by the Ministry of Community and Social Services (MCSS) to provide information that is personalized for adults 18 years of age and older with developmental disabilities in Windsor and Essex County. They offer facilitation and planning Support for adults who have a developmental disability and are looking for a different or unique way to work towards their life goals and dreams.

Rehabilitation Services

  • John McGivney Children’s Centre
    The John McGivney Children’s Centre provides rehabilitative services to the Windsor and Essex County community, enriching the lives of children and youth with disabilities and special needs by helping them reach their full potential.
  • Thames Valley Children’s Centre
    Thames Valley Children’s Centre is a regional rehabilitation center for children and young adults with physical disabilities, communication disorders, developmental delays and autism spectrum disorders, living primarily in Southwestern Ontario.

Research

  • Health Care Access Research and Developmental Disabilities
    H-CARDD envisions an Ontario in which individuals with developmental disabilities receive better health care services and improved overall health. Health care policy in Ontario promotes client-centred care that is high-quality, efficient, and based on research evidence. For example, Ontario’s Action Plan for Health Care emphasizes the importance of becoming healthier and improving access to care. These priorities are especially relevant to individuals with developmental disabilities. They are more likely to have preventable health problems, have a harder time accessing primary and emergency care and have greater health care costs. It is not uncommon for them to fall through the cracks. The work of H-CARDD is aligned with recent provincial policy including the Ontario Women’s Health Framework, Open Minds, Health Minds: Ontario’s Comprehensive Mental Health and Addictions strategy, the Aging at Home Strategy, and the Joint Policy Guideline for the Provision of Community Mental Health and Developmental Services for Adults with a Dual Diagnosis. H-CARDD is also committed to health equity. Reflecting Ontario’s Action Plan for Health Care, H-CARDD believes that individuals with developmental disabilities should have access to the right care, at the right time, in the right place.

Respite

  • Community Living Essex County
    Community Living Essex County is a not-for-profit charitable organization has been committed to assisting people of all ages who have an intellectual disability and their families throughout Essex County since 1961.
  • Community Living Windsor
    Community Living Windsor provides supports and services to people who have an intellectual disability in the Windsor community, serving over 500 families since 1952.
  • Family Respite Services Windsor-Essex County
    Family Respite Services Windsor-Essex County is a community organization that works with families caring for children under the age eighteen years who have intellectual, physical and mental health disabilities by facilitating respite services .
  • Ontario Camps Association
    Guide to camps working towards inclusion that may have resources for people with special needs. Please contact camps directly for details and accommodations.
  • Respite Provider Registry for Windsor-Essex County
    The Respite Provider Registry is an online registry of individuals who have completed an application & screening process and are available to work as respite providers in Windsor Essex County.
  • Summer Camps for Children with Special Needs
    Summer camps for children with special needs are designed to provide extra help for kids requiring physical, emotional, behavourial or medical support
  • The Respite Learning Portal
    Family Respite Services Windsor provides this online learning module for parents on hiring a respite worker.  It can be challenging to have someone else come into a parents’ home on a regular basis and care for their child. This free online resource was designed to assist parents in searching out a respite worker that is a good fit with their family, and compiling information needed to best support their child and how they can help provide training.

Service Coordination

  • Helplink
    Contact Helplink at (519) 257-5288 and they are located at 3901 Connaught Avenue in Windsor. They are a community access service information and referral service that assists families with children age 6-12 years with developmental delays and/or mental health issues by providing information, support and linkages to appropriate community services, facilitating access to services outside the community for families who have exhausted all community resources.
  • Southern Network of Specialized Care
    The Southern Network of Specialized Care (SNSC) facilitates a unified network consisting of individuals, service providers, academics and professionals with an interest in, or who provide specialized services to adults with a dual diagnosis of a mental health and a developmental disability so that individuals and their families receive the highest quality of assessment, treatment, and support.

Support Workers/Personal Assistants

Transportation

  • Crown Medical Transportation
    We specialize in providing fully equipped, reliable transportation and assisted care to the disabled and infirm. Our caring, experienced drivers deliver you to your destination while supplying a helping hand in a relaxing atmosphere.
  • March of Dimes Canada
    Ontario March of Dimes serves adults age 19 years and older who are physically disabled with a mobility impairment. Various services and programs are offered including friendship, attendant services, home and vehicle modifications, promotion of understanding and acceptance of disabilities, employment services, recreation, acquired brain injury, and more. Contact (800) 263-3463 or (416) 425-3463.
  • Patient Transfer Services
    Patient Transfer Service (PTS) is one of Ontario’s most experienced firms in non-emergency medical patient transportation or patient transfer service. PTS moves over 1000 patients per month, making us the most experienced company with the largest patient volume of any patient transfer service in Windsor – Essex County. We offer a variety of stretcher and wheel chair accessible vehicles, allowing us to service any of your non-emergency transfer needs.
  • Transit Windsor
    Transit Windsor provides public transportation to the City of Windsor and cross-boarder service through the Windsor Detroit Tunnel, seven days a week. Visit website for schedules and bus routes.  Location, 3700 North Service Road East, Windsor Ontario, N8W 5X2 . Contact, (519) 944-4111 or 311. Email tw@city.windsor.on.ca.
  • Windsor-Essex County Student Transportation Services
    Transportation is administered to students in Windsor and Essex County by the Service de transports des élèves – Windsor Essex Student Transportation Services (WESTS), which is a consortium formed by the Greater Essex County District School Board, Windsor Essex Catholic District School Board, Conseil scolaire de district des écoles catholiques du Sud-Ouest and Conseil scolaire de district du Centre-Sud-Ouest.