TORONTO, April 4, 2018 /CNW/ - The Provincial Network on Developmental Services was encouraged to see a strong commitment in the 2018 Ontario Budget for developmental services. The budget announced a further investment of $1.8 billion over the next three years. This investment builds on the work under way to transform how people with developmental disabilities are supported in the community. And it recognizes the importance of community agencies and services.
The Provincial Network has had much discussion with the government on the increasing needs for both people and services within the developmental disabilities sector. This investment is a step forward in addressing these increasing needs and creating opportunities for people. As examples, direct funding to the Passport program will be expanded to ensure that more than 40,000 eligible people with developmental disabilities across Ontario will receive at least $5,000 each year. More than 800 people who are inappropriately living in hospitals, long-term care homes, shelters, or correctional facilities will be supported to move to more suitable and safe homes in their community. Innovative housing solutions will also be explored for many others.
The budget also announced funding increases of over $200 million over three years to over 350 community-based agencies. These funds will assist in addressing a number of operating pressures that these agencies face. Strong agencies and services are very important in helping people with developmental disabilities and their families.
The Provincial Network looks forward to continuing to work with government and the community to address the ongoing needs of the Developmental Services Sector.
About the PROVINCIAL NETWORK on Developmental Services:
The Provincial Network consists of provincial organizations whose members provide supports and services to people with developmental disabilities and their families across Ontario. The network works together on issues of shared interest and consensus and functions as a vehicle for open communication, information sharing, and position and message development between the organizations and government representatives.
SOURCE Ongwanada
Wade Durling, Chair, Provincial Network, Email: [email protected]
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