Page 7 - CLH Foundation - Connected - Summer 2023

Passport Funding:

How It Works

Recently, a long-time donor asked, with sincere interest, If someone is eligible for adult developmental services,
why our social media pages show CLH-supported they may also be eligible for Passport funding in the
individuals enjoying sporting and social and recreation amount of $5,500 a year. For individuals with complex
events (which she loved to see), but wondered how they needs, the assessed amount might be higher.
could do that given the information we regularly share
about the poverty experienced by some supported Throughout their childhood, people with developmental
individuals and the difficulty to make ends meet. With disabilities can rely on various developmental services:
navigating ODSP or OAS monthly stipends that leave Special Services at Home, Assistance for Children with
them with just $149, after government-mandated food Severe Disabilities, and services through the Ontario
and housing costs are paid, how could they afford such Autism Program during childhood. But when they turn
outings? 18, those services end, and applications must be made
through DSO to see if they are eligible to receive adult
And to our donor we said, “Great question! We’re glad MCCSS-funded supports in their community.
you asked!”
Once connected with the area DSO they receive help
As background, the Passport program is funded to complete the application process, determine what
by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social supports are needed, if a spot is available, and connect to
Services (MCCSS), and is intended to help adults with services in the community. This includes connection with
a developmental disability to be involved in their a local Passport agency, which in the case of our region, is
communities and live as independently as possible. Catulpa. Most individuals receive $5,500 annually through
Passport funding provides for community participation Passport to support increased connection and community
services and supports, activities of daily living, home skills, participation and to assist with daily living.
and person-directed planning. It also can provide funding
for caregiver respite services and supports for primary For CLH-supported individuals, CLH Developmental
caregivers of an adult with a developmental disability. Support Services acts as a broker or a transfer payment
agent, which has a distinct advantage for those
Developmental Services Ontario (DSO) is the access point individuals. Whereas families who manage Passport
for adult developmental services funded by MCCSS in dollars on behalf of their family member have to pay for
Ontario. There are nine DSO locations across the province.
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