July 25, 2019
Hon. Todd Smith
Minister of Children, Community,
and Social Services
7th Floor, 438 University Ave.
Toronto, ON M5G 2K8
RE: OAP Waitlist and Childhood Budget
Dear Minister,
I am writing to express my concern with the lack of clarity and information that has been communicated to parents in connection to their status on the OAP waitlist, and when they will receive funding.
My office has received numerous calls from parents who have expressed their frustrations over the lack of transparency and information they have received regarding the status of their child. Parents have been directed to communicate with Program Supervisors who have relayed standard responses to their personal inquiries. The lack of information and ability to answer their pertinent questions have left parents with no clarity on when they will receive funding for the essential services their child requires.
I am sure you will agree, parents have been advocating for their children to receive the essential services such as ABA Therapy, Occupational Therapists, and Developmental Progression as early intervention is a fundamental element for children on the autistic spectrum. With lack of information pertaining to the status of their child on the waitlist, when they will receive the Childhood Budget, and releasing of funds have increased their concerns and frustrations exponentially.
I am asking for confirmation of when families will receive the Childhood Budgets so children may obtain early intervention essential services. Likewise, I am asking for Program Supervisors to provide the placement of children on the waitlist to eradicate the stress and anxiety of families in the region. Furthermore, I am asking for Program Supervisors to provide more transparency to parental requests regarding their children, excluding the standard responses of being part of the phased approach.
Please confirm that parents will be provided with direct and transparent information by Program Supervisors and the Ministry.
Sincerely,
Laura Mae Lindo, MPP
Kitchener-Centre