Ontario Autism Coalition Calls on Government to Make Systemic Changes in Provincial Autism Services
Several people gathered in front of the Ross Romano campaign office this afternoon to gather for better support services for young people and adults living with autism in Ontario.
According to the Ontario Autism Coalition, the list of children waiting to be treated for autism has more than doubled, and they say a number of systemic changes need to be made immediately.
Among the supporters is Clare Olet, a grandmother who cares for her five grandchildren living with autism. She explains that the system is completely broken.
“You just feel so isolated as a parent,” she says. “You know, these kids could be a lot further away if they had more one-on-one support. The government has failed our children and we need systemic change.
The Ontario Autism Program has undergone four major overhauls over the past six years. Some families have waited years for their child’s treatment as the province’s three major political parties offer changes to Ontario’s autism services.
Progressive Conservatives’ second attempt at an autism program has doubled its budget to $ 600 million a year, but implementation is facing delays, leaving thousands of children across the province without key services.
This disappoints families like Oellettes.
“It’s just not fair,” she said. “These children were pushed through the cracks. We need on-site services for our children. ”
The NDP intends to remove all age-based requirements and promises to increase the program budget by an additional $ 125 million by 2024-25.
In the meantime, the Liberals will also eliminate age determinants and introduce the option of direct charging while working within the existing budget.
No matter who comes to power, Oelet just wants to see his grandchildren get the help they deserve.
“When you meet a child with autism, you meet a child with autism,” she said. “The needs are so great among every child. This is the first time I’ve used my voice – it’s empowering, but it’s frustrating. We need this government to strengthen and take care of these children. They just want to be treated as human beings. They need to have programs designed specifically for their needs. ”
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