News Release - Ontario Making Access to Services Easier for People with Developmental Disabilities

https://news.ontario.ca/mcss/en/2016/09/ontario-making-access-to-services-easier-for-people-with-developmental-disabilities.html

Ontario Making Access to Services Easier for People with Developmental Disabilities

Changes Will Benefit Approximately 3,000 People Every Year

Ontario is simplifying the application process for young people with developmental disabilities and their families applying for the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) and Special Services at Home (SSAH) funding.

Until now, young people with developmental disabilities seeking government-funded adult developmental services and supports, as well as income support from the Ontario Disability Support Program, were required to prove their developmental disability twice.

As of September 1^st, once a person is deemed eligible for ministry-funded adult developmental services, they will no longer have to go through a second process to verify their disability to qualify for the Ontario Disability Support Program.

Existing ODSP requirements, including financial eligibility, will still apply.

Families receiving SSAH funding for children under 18 with a developmental disability will also no longer need to re-apply every year for funding. This means all SSAH recipients will be automatically renewed at their current level of funding until they turn 18, as long as eligibility criteria are met. Should an SSAH recipient's circumstances or needs change they are encouraged to contact their regional office.

This improvement is part of Ontario's commitment to providing integrated supports and services that best meet people's needs with seamless transition at key life and care stages.