Empowering People with Disabilities

Yes, it’s true—over 50,000 adults with developmental disabilities are currently on the waitlist for services in Ontario. This number will continue to grow unless the Ontario government takes urgent action to address their needs. We are also looking for stories we might share in the media from all regions for #WaitingToBelong in the coming months. HERE is the link to the story submission platform. These stories will be integral to our success in the coming months in getting our voices and concerns heard with our local MPPs and at Queen’s Park.

Ontario’s developmental services organizations are facing a critical challenge – providing quality services and supports to people with developmental disabilities while dealing with a 0% budget increase. “Like many families and organizations across Ontario, Alice Saddy Association is struggling with increased costs to keeping the heat and lights on, putting gas in vehicles, and buying food to feed people,” explains Executive Director, Marg McLean. “With rising inflation and skyrocketing costs, it’s getting harder to provide the support individuals with developmental disabilities deserve.” Adding to this struggle is the challenge of recruiting qualified staff. All while having funding increase. “Recognizing the escalating crisis, we’re joining developmental service agencies across the province in the #5tosurvive campaign which calls upon the Ontario government to provide an immediate 5% increase in base funding, including Passport and Special Services at Home,” says McLean. Vision vs reality Ontario’s current developmental services strategy envisions a future where individuals with developmental disabilities are supported by their communities, networks and government to lead inclusive lives. However, the organizations tasked with turning this vision into a reality are shackled by a lack of resources. The gap between the envisioned support and reality on the ground is widening, leaving developmental service organizations on the brink of crisis. “Alice Saddy Association, like many other agencies, finds ourself caught in a paradox,” McLean explains. “While demands for our services are increasing, funding remains stagnant. Rising costs, including essential services and recruiting qualified staff, are pushing developmental service organizations to our limits.” “Despite the dedication and passion of our staff, we’re concerned that a 0% budget increase means we’ll be unable to meet the growing needs of individuals with developmental disabilities.” Lend your voice We encourage community members to share their concerns by joining #5tosurvive . Contact your local MPP to ask for the immediate 5% funding increase and sign the online petition . Make your voice heard alongside ours.