The lack of adequate funding and resources means that appropriate supports
and services cannot be provided quickly. Often persons who are in need of
support in their daily activities will be forced into hospitals and mental health
facilities to receive care. The Policy Directive for Application Entities states that in
cases where there is need for an emergency response, the Application Entity
shall direct the individual to emergency services (police, hospital or local clinic). It
also states that when a request is made for urgent support “the Application Entity
shall complete or update the Application package ..as soon as possible and no
later than twelve (12) months”.^34
C. Passport and Special Services at HomePrior to April 2012, there were two sources of Ministry of Community and Social
Services funding that could be used to purchase individualized supports and
services for children and adults. These are Passport and Special Services at
Home (SSAH).
- Passport
Starting April 1, 2012, adults who have been labelled with an intellectual disability
who are seeking direct funding are to be supported through the Passport
program. Adults who were receiving SSAH funding prior to April 1, 2012 are now
supported entirely through the Passport program. Only children can now apply
for new funding under the SSAH program. If an individual was receiving SSAH in
the past, she or he will continue to receive the same amount of money and can
use the money in the same way as they had in the past. This will continue until
the recipient is reassessed.
(^34) Online: Ministry of Community and Social Service, “Policy Directive for Application Entities”
http://www.mcss.gov.on.ca/documents/en/mcss/publications/developmental/ds_policy_directive.p
df