What's New

Ontario Taking Action to Reduce Wait Times and Improve Services

Ontario is reducing wait times and enhancing rehabilitation services for children and youth with special needs, and their families.

The province is investing an additional $5 million annually in children's treatment centres to expand access to physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech-language therapy for up to an additional 2,000 children annually across Ontario.

Ontario is also investing an additional $1.25 million in one-time funding to help children's treatment centres further reduce waitlists for assessments.

Improving access to services for children and youth with special needs is part of the government's plan to invest in people, build modern infrastructure and support a dynamic business climate.

QUOTES

" Ontario is committed to helping young people with special needs achieve their full potential. This new investment demonstrates our commitment to improving wait times for rehabilitation services for children and youth with special needs."

- Tracy MacCharles, Minister of Children and Youth Services

" This investment in rehabilitation services will make a real difference in the lives of children and youth with special needs. ‎On behalf of Children's Treatment Centres across the province and the families they serve, we welcome the government’s continued commitment to helping Ontario families prepare for success."

- Jennifer Churchill,
CEO, Ontario Association of Children's Rehabilitation Services

QUICK FACTS

• Last  year, the 20 children’s treatment centres across the province funded by the Ministry of Children and Youth Services, provided service to about
  70,000 kids.


• Children’s treatment centres provide rehabilitation services to children and youth up  to 19 years of age with physical disabilities, developmental disabilities,  chronic illness and/or communication disorders.

LEARN MORE

• Check  out Ontario’s Special Needs Strategy

Neil Zacharjewicz Minister's Office

416-212-7159

Anne Machowski-Smith Communications Branch

416-325-5156

For Public Inquiries: Call toll-free

1-866-821-7770