Support system for Ontarians with developmental disabilities on ‘verge of collapse’: coalition

Ontario’s system to support individuals with developmental disabilities is facing a crisis due to inadequate funding, as highlighted by a coalition of agencies calling on the provincial government to take action. The coalition reports that there are 52,000 Ontarians on waitlists for developmental supports and services, with approximately 5,000 individuals in eastern Ontario and Ottawa alone.

One individual affected by these challenges is Melanie Groulx, an Ottawa resident with autism and high support needs who has been on the emergency waitlist for supportive housing for four years. Her mother, Carrie Groulx, expresses concerns about the future, asking, “What’s going to happen to my child after I’m gone?” The lack of programs and underfunding are cited as reasons for the long wait times, echoing the coalition’s sentiments that the system is on the verge of collapse without significant intervention.

Carrie Groulx describes the daily challenges her daughter faces and the need for stable, supportive housing. While Melanie attends a day program called Bloom in Kanata during the week, her mother emphasizes that this is not a permanent solution. The strain on families without access to such programs is evident, with many parents struggling to find suitable care for their children.

David Ferguson, CEO of the Ottawa-Carleton Association for Persons with Developmental Disabilities (OCAPDD), explains how agencies like his have been operating with minimal funding increases since 1993, leading to program cuts and staff shortages. John Rietschlin, chair of the board of directors at L’Arche Ottawa, echoes these concerns, noting that despite growing demand, they are supporting fewer individuals due to financial constraints.

The coalition, including OCAPDD and L’Arche Ottawa, is urging the government to provide additional funding to address the longstanding issues facing developmental support services. Carrie Groulx emphasizes the urgent need for support, describing the situation as an emergency. While the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services has allocated $90 million over three years for community organizations focused on developmental support, the coalition believes this is a positive but insufficient step towards resolving the ongoing challenges.

In conclusion, the critical state of Ontario’s developmental disability support system underscores the need for immediate government intervention to prevent a collapse and ensure that individuals like Melanie Groulx receive the care and services they require for a dignified quality of life.