Transition Planning
Planning and Learning for Life after High School
for students with an MID exceptionality
at Heydon Park
Goals
Developmental Services Ontario�(DSO)
What is it? Central organization that manages access to all government-funded services for adults with developmental disabilities
| When to apply? Starting at 16 Will assess for eligibility: (psycho-educational report, plus proof of residency in Ontario - Health Card) Approval for supports usually happens within 20 business days. Then have to wait for an assessment of needs (up to 24+ months!), then wait for the funded service (2-4+ years, or sooner with urgent need) | Who gets it? 18+, with a developmental disability Most students with an MID designation will be eligible, in both our MID Life Skills and Academic Pathways program. While you wait: RESOURCE. |
Family Services Toronto�Passport Funding
What is it? Passport funding guidelines changed in April 2023. Can be used for:
| When to apply? Acceptance is automatic when DSO acceptance has occurred. $5,500 per year (April 1st-March 31st) This amount can increase after DSO assessment of needs to as high as $45,000. | Who gets it? 18+, with a developmental disability (which includes MOST people diagnosed with an MID exceptionality). Check out these two resources (and a new app based MY Direct Plan) to submit claims electronically. |
ODSP – INCOME SUPPORTS
What is it? Social Assistance (income) for adults living with a disability. Can include money for basic needs as well as money for rent Can also include health benefits (drug card, special diet, dental, etc.) | When to apply? 6 months before 18th birthday Will assess for
| Who gets it?
Must show you have a disability. DSO letter of eligibility is enough proof of this. You DO NOT need to go to a doctor to determine eligibility if you have been approved by DSO! This continues to be an issue for some of our families. |
ODSP – EMPLOYMENT SUPPORTS
What is it? Money & Service to help people with a disability find and keep work Can include: Job coaching & training interpreter services Specialized computer training Tools and equipment The services are provided by an agency that the individual chooses from a list. Corebrook, Community Living Toronto, March of Dimes and Project Work all work specifically with adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. | When to apply? Usually towards the end of high school.
| Who is gets it? 16+. You do NOT have to be on ODSP to be eligible. Must show you have:
|
PERSON-DIRECTED PLANNING
Helps students to make a plan for life in their community by choosing goals and finding connections, services, and supports with the help of families and/or other people of their choice. Can include:
| Before age 18, if possible However service can be accessed at any time, usually for a fee. Up to $2500 of your Passport Funding can be used each year to pay for Person Directed Planning). | Who gets it? This service can be FREE for individuals between 14 and 18 who have a developmental disability After 18, it can be purchased, or funded through DSO eligibility. |
RESPITE SERVICES
What is it? a short planned break from the physical and emotional demands involved in caring for a family member who has a disability.
| When to apply? Under 18 if diagnosis of developmental disability 18 if eligible for DSO | Who gets it? 18 years + and eligible for services through Developmental Services Ontario (DSO) Under 18 must have a diagnosis of a developmental disability including autism and/or a physical disability, visual or hearing impairment. |
IMPORTANT RESOURCES
Heydon Park Transitions Folder
Links to applications, resources and fact sheets. This is an evolving resource as we add and learn more!
IMPORTANT RESOURCES
Heydon Park Transitions Folder
Links to applications, resources and fact sheets. This is an evolving resource as we add and learn more!
Planning For Life After High School (TDSB Resource)
Similar information (plus more!) put together by TDSB Psychology and Social Work Staff.
Heydon Park Transitions Toolkit
Document with many links and information about programs available after high school and other community� supports and mental health resources.
A detailed collection of information and excellent resource, including discussion forums and supports for families.
A detailed listing of programs and services, with date, cost and registration information
Focus on financial information and planning for persons with disabilities. Many videos and online guides.
Site for applying to Developmental Services Ontario. This link takes you to the part of their website which discusses accessing services.
Can help with respite, and applications to Special Services at Home or Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities
Employment support for adults on the Autism Spectrum as well as those with� Intellectual Disabilities.
Thank you and good evening!