In 2009, The Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) introduced an innovative program to strengthen community support for adults with a developmental disabilities. The Passport Program provides opportunities for individuals who have a developmental disability to find more ways to participate in their communities. Young adults who have left school and would benefit from community participation support, or are waiting for day support services and are not eligible for ODSP Employment Support may qualify to receive this funding.
Passport helps to:
- Improve the quality of participation in the community by providing support that focuses on individual goals, work activities and community participation
- Smooth the transition from school to life as an adult in the community
- Promote independence
- Foster social, emotional and community participation skills
- Promise continuing education and personal development
Participants in Passport can live independently or in supportive living. Individuals and their families have the option of receiving this funding directly and making their own arrangements to purchase Community Participation Supports or choosing to access services through community-based agencies.
What are Community Participation Supports?
- Activities to enable participation in further education
- Employment preparation
- Work activities
- Volunteer activities
- Daily living activities that enhance social skills, independent living and leisure
- Activities that develop skills in utilizing community resources such as transportation services, shopping, libraries, and recreational opportunities
- Day support programs
Why choose Community Living Espanola Passport Services?
Here at Community Living Espanola, the support provided is determined by the needs of the individual’s level of functioning, their wishes and the expectations of the family. Through our Community Participation Supports, we offer wellness and fitness, literacy and numeracy, house life skills and vocational training as well as social interaction with peers and community-based activities. We are confident that these supports will encourage Passport Initiative participants to achieve their potential.
For further information, guidelines and application forms, please visit the MCCSS web link listed below or contact Chad Minten, Passport Coordinator at (705) 869-0442, extension #34.