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Person-Centred Planning Explained

Person-Centred Planning Explained

Every person has their own goals, interests, strengths, and support needs. A support plan should reflect those differences.

Person-centred planning puts the individual at the centre of every decision. Instead of starting with available services, it starts by asking one simple question:

What does this person want their life to look like, and what support will help them get there?

The result is a support plan that reflects the person’s goals, abilities, preferences, and future aspirations.

What Is Person-Centred Planning?

Person-centred planning is a collaborative process that helps adults with developmental disabilities build a meaningful life based on their own goals and choices.

The focus is on understanding the whole person, not simply their diagnosis or support needs.

A person-centred plan may include:

  • Personal strengths and interests
  • Daily living goals
  • Employment or volunteer goals
  • Community participation
  • Social relationships
  • Independent living goals
  • Health and wellness priorities
  • Long-term aspirations

For example, one person may want to learn to cook simple meals and use public transportation independently. Another may want to find volunteer opportunities, make new friends, or prepare for paid employment.

Every plan should reflect the individual, not a standard program.

Who Is Involved?

Person-centred planning works best when the right people are involved.

This may include:

  • The individual
  • Parents or family members
  • Guardians
  • Support workers
  • Professionals already involved in the person’s life
  • An independent planner or facilitator, when appropriate

The individual’s voice should guide every decision whenever possible.

How Person-Centred Planning Works

Good planning starts by listening.

Families, support workers, and professionals work together to understand the person’s goals, daily routines, challenges, strengths, and interests.

From there, the plan identifies practical steps that help the individual move toward those goals.

For example, if someone wants to become more independent, their plan may include:

  • Learning meal preparation
  • Managing personal finances
  • Using public transportation
  • Participating in community activities
  • Building social skills

Each goal is broken into smaller, achievable steps that can be practised consistently over time.

Review the Plan Regularly

People grow and their goals change.

A person-centred plan should be reviewed regularly to make sure it continues to reflect the individual’s needs, interests, and progress.

Small adjustments over time often produce better long-term results than creating a plan once and never updating it.

How Person-Centred Planning Supports Independence

When support is based on personal goals, people are often more motivated to participate and develop new skills.

For example:

  • A person who enjoys cooking may become more engaged when learning meal preparation.
  • Someone interested in sports may build friendships through a local recreation program.
  • A person who wants a job may begin with volunteer opportunities and workplace skill development.

Person-centred planning also helps families make informed decisions about community participation, independent living supports, Passport funding, and future planning.

How CareVia Support Can Help

At CareVia Support, person-centred planning is the foundation of everything we do.

We take time to understand each individual’s strengths, interests, goals, and support needs before developing a personalized support plan.

Our approach may include:

  • Independent living skill development
  • Community participation
  • Goal-focused one-to-one support
  • Life skills coaching
  • Transition planning
  • Family support and guidance

Every support plan is tailored to help individuals build confidence, develop practical skills, and achieve meaningful personal goals.

Ready to Build a Personalized Support Plan?

Every individual deserves support that reflects who they are and what they want to achieve.

If you’re looking for personalized developmental support that focuses on your loved one’s goals, CareVia Support is here to help.

Book a free Family Consultation today and learn how person-centred planning can help your loved one build greater independence, confidence, and community involvement.

Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Support Provider

Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Support Provider

Choosing a developmental support provider is an important decision.

The right provider can help your loved one build confidence, develop life skills, and become more independent. The wrong provider may lead to inconsistent support, poor communication, and frustration for your family.

Before you make a decision, ask these questions during your consultation.

Ask About Experience and Qualifications

Every individual has different support needs.

Instead of asking, “Do you have experience?” ask questions that give you a clearer picture.

Examples include:

  • Have you supported adults with similar needs?
  • What types of developmental disabilities have your team worked with?
  • What does a typical support session look like?
  • How do you encourage independence during support?

You want a provider who understands the person’s goals, not just their diagnosis.

Ask About Staff Training

Support workers should receive appropriate training and ongoing professional development.

You can ask:

  • What qualifications do your support workers have?
  • Are they trained in behaviour support or crisis prevention?
  • Do they have First Aid and CPR certification?
  • How are new staff supervised?

These questions help you understand how the organization prepares its team.

Ask How Support Is Delivered

Consistency helps individuals feel comfortable and build trusting relationships.

Ask questions such as:

  • Will the same support worker be assigned regularly?
  • What happens if my support worker is unavailable?
  • How are schedule changes managed?
  • How do you match support workers with individuals?

Knowing how support is organized can help you avoid unexpected changes later.

Ask About Communication

Good communication builds strong partnerships between families and support providers.

Ask:

  • Who should I contact if I have a concern?
  • How will I receive updates about my loved one’s progress?
  • How often do you review support goals?
  • What happens if we need to make changes to the support plan?

A provider should answer these questions clearly and confidently.

Ask About Funding and Services

Before services begin, make sure you understand how funding and payments work.

Questions you may want to ask include:

  • Do you support families using Passport funding?
  • Can you explain your invoicing process?
  • Are there additional fees?
  • What services do you provide?
  • Can support plans change as needs change?

Clear answers help you avoid misunderstandings later.

Look Beyond the Answers

Pay attention to the conversation itself.

Ask yourself:

  • Did they listen carefully?
  • Did they answer my questions clearly?
  • Did they explain things in a way I understood?
  • Did they ask about my loved one’s goals and interests?
  • Did I feel respected throughout the conversation?

Trust is built through honest communication and consistent support.

How CareVia Support Can Help

At CareVia Support, we encourage families to ask questions before choosing a provider.

We believe you should understand exactly how support will be delivered and feel confident in the people supporting your loved one.

During your consultation, we’ll explain:

  • Our person-centred approach
  • How we match support workers
  • How we promote independence and community participation
  • How we communicate with families
  • How our services may work alongside Passport funding

We want every family to make an informed decision, whether they choose CareVia or another provider.

Ready to Explore Your Options?

Choosing a support provider is about finding the right fit for your loved one and your family.

If you’re looking for personalized, goal-focused developmental support, we’re here to answer your questions.

Book a free Family Consultation today and learn how CareVia Support can help your loved one build greater independence, confidence, and meaningful community connections.

Preparing for Adult Developmental Services

Preparing for Adult Developmental Services

Preparing for adult developmental services takes time. Families who start early often feel more confident and avoid many of the delays that come from missing documents or waiting until the last minute.

If your child is approaching adulthood, there are several steps you can take now to prepare for the transition.

Organize Your Documents

One of the most common reasons applications are delayed is missing or incomplete documentation.

Before you contact Developmental Services Ontario (DSO), gather the information you already have.

This may include:

  • Proof of age
  • Proof of Ontario residency
  • Psychological assessments
  • Medical reports
  • School records
  • Individual Education Plans (IEPs)
  • Reports that describe current support needs

If your psychological assessment is several years old or does not clearly meet DSO requirements, you may need an updated assessment.

Having your documents organized before you begin can save time and reduce unnecessary stress.

Learn the Eligibility Requirements

You can begin the DSO eligibility process when a young person is 16 years old, even though most adult services begin at age 18.

DSO will review your documentation to determine whether the individual meets Ontario’s eligibility requirements for adult developmental services.

Understanding the requirements before you apply helps you prepare the right information from the beginning.

Prepare for the Application Process

The DSO application process involves more than submitting documents.

You will be asked questions about your family member’s daily life, support needs, and current level of independence.

Before your first conversation, spend some time thinking about:

  • Daily routines
  • Personal care needs
  • Communication
  • Safety
  • Community participation
  • Behavioural support needs
  • Areas where additional support would improve quality of life

Giving clear and accurate information helps ensure your application reflects your family’s current situation.

Plan for the Next Stage

If your family member is found eligible, there may be additional assessments and planning before services become available.

Adult services are based on eligibility, assessed needs, available resources, and program capacity.

Because wait times can vary, many families begin planning as early as possible.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Families often tell us they wish they had started sooner.

Some of the most common mistakes include:

  • Waiting until age 18 to begin planning.
  • Missing important documentation.
  • Assuming services begin automatically.
  • Underestimating how long the process can take.
  • Forgetting to update DSO when circumstances change.

Keeping your information current helps ensure your file reflects your family’s needs.

How CareVia Support Can Help

Preparing for adult developmental services can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re navigating the system for the first time.

At CareVia Support, we help families prepare for every stage of the process.

We can help you:

  • Understand DSO requirements.
  • Organize important documentation.
  • Learn about Passport funding.
  • Explore available support services.
  • Develop a person-centred support plan.
  • Plan for greater independence and community participation.

While DSO determines eligibility and government agencies manage funding decisions, CareVia Support helps families understand the process, prepare with confidence, and make informed decisions about future supports.

Ready to Start Planning?

Preparing early gives your family more time to organize documents, understand available services, and plan for adulthood with confidence.

Book a free Family Consultation today and let CareVia Support help you prepare for the next stage of your loved one’s journey.

Transitioning to Adult Services

Transitioning to Adult Services

The transition from children’s services to adult developmental services is one of the biggest changes many families will face.

Many parents assume adult services begin automatically after high school. They do not.

Adult developmental services have their own application process, eligibility requirements, and wait times. Planning early gives your family more time to prepare and helps reduce unnecessary delays.

When Should You Start Planning?

One of the most important things to know is that you do not need to wait until your child turns 18.

In Ontario, families can begin the DSO eligibility process when a young person is 16 years old, even though most adult services begin at age 18.

Starting early gives you time to:

  • Gather important documents.
  • Complete the DSO eligibility process.
  • Learn about Passport funding.
  • Explore available support services.
  • Prepare for life after high school.

Many families who begin planning at 16 feel more prepared when their child enters adulthood.

What Changes at Age 18?

When your child becomes an adult, many children’s services end.

Adult services are accessed through a different system, which may include:

  • Developmental Services Ontario (DSO)
  • Passport funding
  • Community participation programs
  • Independent living supports
  • Adult service agencies

Because these services often require separate applications, planning ahead is important.

Preparing for the Transition

Every family’s situation is different, but there are several steps that can make the transition easier.

Gather Your Documentation

Collect important records before you begin the application process.

These may include:

  • Psychological assessments
  • Medical reports
  • School records
  • Individual Education Plans (IEPs)
  • Other documents that describe support needs

Having your paperwork organized can help prevent unnecessary delays.

Learn About Adult Services

Take time to understand what services are available.

Many families begin by learning about:

  • DSO eligibility
  • Passport funding
  • Independent living supports
  • Community participation
  • Respite services
  • Employment supports

Knowing your options helps you make informed decisions as your child enters adulthood.

Common Challenges Families Face

Many families tell us they wish they had started planning sooner.

Some of the most common challenges include:

  • Waiting too long to apply for DSO.
  • Missing important documentation.
  • Feeling overwhelmed by the application process.
  • Not understanding Passport funding.
  • Uncertainty about available support services after high school.

These challenges are common, especially for families going through the process for the first time.

Starting early allows you to address these issues before they become urgent.

How CareVia Support Can Help

At CareVia Support, we help families prepare for the transition to adult developmental services with confidence.

We can help you:

  • Understand the DSO process.
  • Learn about Passport funding.
  • Explore adult developmental support services.
  • Develop person-centred support goals.
  • Plan for greater independence and community participation.

While DSO determines eligibility and government agencies manage funding decisions, we help families understand the process, organize information, and plan the next steps.

Ready to Plan for Adulthood?

The transition to adult services does not happen overnight.

Planning ahead gives your family more time to understand the system, organize important documents, and prepare for the future.

Book a free Family Consultation today and let CareVia Support help you build a personalized transition plan for your loved one.

What is Respite Support

What is Respite Support

Caring for a loved one with a developmental disability is rewarding, but it can also be physically and emotionally demanding.

Many family caregivers provide support every day. They help with personal care, appointments, daily routines, community activities, and medical needs. Over time, those responsibilities can become difficult to manage without support.

Respite support gives caregivers time to rest while their loved one continues to receive safe, reliable care.

What Is Respite Support?

Respite support is temporary care provided by a qualified support worker so a family caregiver can take a break.

The goal is simple. Your loved one continues to receive quality support while you have time to focus on your own health, work, family responsibilities, or personal needs.

Respite can be arranged in different ways, depending on your family’s situation.

In-Home Respite

A support worker comes to your home to provide care while your loved one stays in a familiar environment.

Community Respite

A support worker accompanies your loved one into the community for activities such as:

  • Recreation programs
  • Community outings
  • Library visits
  • Shopping
  • Social activities
  • Volunteer opportunities

Short-Term Respite

Some families arrange respite for longer periods, such as a full day or a weekend, depending on available services and funding.

The right option depends on your family’s needs and your loved one’s goals.

Who Can Benefit From Respite Support?

Respite is designed for unpaid family caregivers who provide ongoing care to an adult with a developmental disability.

You may benefit from respite support if you need time to:

  • Attend appointments
  • Go to work
  • Spend time with other family members
  • Rest and recharge
  • Manage personal responsibilities

Many families schedule respite regularly instead of waiting until they feel overwhelmed.

A few hours each week can make caregiving more manageable over time.

How Can Respite Support Help?

Respite support benefits both caregivers and the person receiving support.

For caregivers, respite provides time to rest, reduce stress, and maintain a healthy balance between caregiving and other responsibilities.

For individuals with developmental disabilities, respite can provide opportunities to:

  • Build new relationships
  • Participate in community activities
  • Develop independent living skills
  • Increase confidence
  • Try new experiences in a supportive environment

For example, while a caregiver attends a medical appointment, a support worker may help the individual visit a community centre, prepare a simple meal, or practise public transportation skills.

Paying for Respite Support

Many Ontario families use Passport funding to help pay for eligible respite services.

Funding rules and eligible expenses can change, so it is always best to confirm current requirements with your local Passport agency.

If you are unsure whether respite support is covered, ask before booking services.

How CareVia Support Can Help

At CareVia Support, we provide person-centred respite services that give caregivers peace of mind while helping individuals continue building confidence and independence.

Our respite support may include:

  • In-home support
  • Community participation
  • Personal care assistance
  • Independent living skill development
  • Meaningful social and recreational activities
  • Goal-focused one-to-one support

Every support plan is tailored to the individual’s strengths, interests, and needs.

We work closely with families to create a schedule that fits their routine while providing safe, consistent, and reliable support.

Ready to Take a Break?

Taking time for yourself does not mean you’re providing less care. It helps you continue supporting your loved one over the long term.

If you’re looking for reliable respite support for an adult with a developmental disability, CareVia Support is here to help.

Book a free Family Consultation today and learn how our personalized respite services can support both you and your loved one.

Independent Living Skills Explained

Independent Living Skills Explained

Many parents ask the same question:

What does independent living really mean for my loved one?

For some people, independence may mean living on their own. For others, it means preparing meals, using public transportation, managing money, or making everyday decisions with less support.

Every person’s goals are different. The focus is not on doing everything alone. The goal is to help each individual develop the skills they need to live with greater confidence, choice, and independence.

What Are Independent Living Skills?

Independent living skills are the everyday skills people use to manage daily life.

These skills help adults with developmental disabilities become more confident at home, in the community, and in social settings.

Common independent living skills include:

Personal Care

  • Bathing and grooming
  • Dressing appropriately
  • Personal hygiene
  • Managing medications with appropriate support

Household Skills

  • Preparing simple meals
  • Laundry
  • Cleaning and organizing
  • Home safety

Money Management

  • Understanding the value of money
  • Creating a simple budget
  • Paying for purchases
  • Making safe spending decisions

Community Skills

  • Using public transportation
  • Grocery shopping
  • Visiting community centres
  • Attending appointments
  • Asking for help when needed

Social and Communication Skills

  • Starting conversations
  • Building friendships
  • Solving everyday problems
  • Expressing choices and preferences

These skills help individuals participate more fully in everyday life.

How Independent Living Skills Are Developed

Most people learn life skills through regular practice.

The same approach works for adults with developmental disabilities.

For example, learning to cook begins with simple tasks such as washing vegetables, making a sandwich, or using a microwave safely. As confidence grows, more complex skills can be introduced.

Learning is often most successful when support includes:

Breaking Tasks Into Small Steps

Large tasks become easier when they are divided into smaller, manageable steps.

Practising in Real-Life Situations

People learn more effectively by completing everyday tasks than by only talking about them.

Practising grocery shopping at a local store teaches far more than reading about shopping at home.

Building Consistent Routines

Repeating the same activity regularly helps develop confidence and independence.

Gradually Reducing Support

Support workers and families encourage individuals to complete as much of each task as possible on their own while providing assistance only when needed.

Progress often happens gradually. Small improvements made consistently can lead to meaningful changes over time.

How Families Can Encourage Independence

Families play an important role in helping independent living skills grow.

You can support your loved one by:

  • Encouraging them to complete tasks independently whenever it is safe.
  • Giving enough time to practise new skills.
  • Celebrating small successes.
  • Following consistent daily routines.
  • Setting realistic goals based on the individual’s abilities.

Independence looks different for everyone. Every new skill is another step toward greater confidence.

How CareVia Support Can Help

At CareVia Support, we create person-centred plans that focus on practical life skills and meaningful goals.

Our Independent Living Support may include:

  • Daily living skills coaching
  • Meal preparation
  • Household routines
  • Budgeting and money skills
  • Community participation
  • Public transportation training
  • Social and communication skills
  • Goal-focused one-to-one support

Every support plan is tailored to the individual’s strengths, interests, and goals.

We focus on helping adults with developmental disabilities build practical skills that improve confidence and increase independence in everyday life.

Ready to Build Greater Independence?

Learning independent living skills takes time, patience, and consistent support.

If you’re looking for personalized support that helps your loved one develop practical life skills and become more independent, CareVia Support is here to help.

Book a free Family Consultation today and learn how we can help your loved one build the skills needed for greater independence at home and in the community.

How Community Participation Builds Independence

How Community Participation Builds Independence

Many parents ask the same question:

Will my loved one become more independent?

There is no single answer because every person’s journey is different. One thing is clear, though. Regular community participation gives adults with developmental disabilities opportunities to learn, practise new skills, and become more confident in everyday life.

At CareVia Support, community participation is more than attending activities. It is about helping individuals build practical life skills through real experiences.

What Is Community Participation?

Community participation means taking part in everyday activities outside the home.

This could include:

  • Volunteering
  • Recreation programs
  • Fitness classes
  • Art or music groups
  • Library programs
  • Community events
  • Shopping
  • Using public transportation
  • Part-time employment
  • Visiting local parks or community centres

These activities help individuals become active members of their community while developing greater confidence and independence.

Every activity should match the individual’s interests, abilities, and personal goals.

Learning Through Everyday Experiences

Many important life skills are learned by doing.

For example, attending a weekly cooking class can help someone practise:

  • Following instructions
  • Preparing simple meals
  • Working with others
  • Solving small problems
  • Building a routine

A volunteer position may help someone improve communication, time management, and workplace skills while building confidence.

These experiences prepare individuals for greater independence in everyday life.

Skills Developed Through Community Participation

Community participation supports many areas of personal growth.

Individuals often develop:

  • Communication skills
  • Social skills
  • Decision-making
  • Problem-solving
  • Money management
  • Time management
  • Travel training
  • Self-confidence
  • Greater independence

Progress happens over time through regular practice and consistent support.

Every new experience creates another opportunity to learn.

The Importance of Consistency

One outing every few months is unlikely to create lasting change.

Weekly or regular participation often leads to stronger routines, increased confidence, and continued skill development.

Many families use Passport funding, where eligible, to help access ongoing community participation support.

How Families Can Support Independence

Families play an important role in helping community participation become part of everyday life.

You can support your loved one by:

  • Encouraging them to try new activities.
  • Choosing programs that match their interests.
  • Celebrating small successes.
  • Building regular routines.
  • Working with support professionals who encourage independence instead of doing everything for them.

The goal is to provide enough support for success while encouraging the individual to do as much as they can independently.

How CareVia Support Can Help

At CareVia Support, we build community participation into every person’s support plan.

We take time to understand each individual’s interests, strengths, and goals before recommending activities or developing support strategies.

Our Community Participation Support may include:

  • Community outings
  • Recreation and social activities
  • Volunteer opportunities
  • Independent living skill development
  • Travel training
  • Life skills coaching
  • Goal-focused community support

Every support plan is person-centred and designed to help individuals become more confident, connected, and independent.

Ready to Build Greater Independence?

Community participation is one of the most effective ways to develop practical life skills and increase confidence.

If you’re looking for personalized support that helps your loved one become more active in the community and build greater independence, we’re here to help.

Book a free Family Consultation today and learn how CareVia Support can help your loved one achieve meaningful goals through person-centred community participation.

Can Passport Funding Pay for Support Services

Can Passport Funding Pay for Support Services?

Yes. Passport funding can often be used to pay for support services that help adults with developmental disabilities build independence, participate in their community, and achieve personal goals.

Many families use Passport funding to hire developmental support workers, access community programs, and receive caregiver respite.

This guide explains what Passport funding may cover, what it does not cover, and what you should know before hiring a support provider.

What Support Services Can Passport Funding Cover?

Passport funding is designed to help eligible adults with developmental disabilities access services that improve everyday life and increase community participation.

Depending on your approved funding and current Passport guidelines, eligible services may include:

Developmental Support Workers

Many families use Passport funding to hire Developmental Service Workers (DSWs) who provide support with:

  • Independent living skills
  • Community participation
  • Social and communication skills
  • Daily routines
  • Life skills development
  • Goal-based support

For example, a support worker may help someone learn to use public transit, prepare simple meals, attend a community program, or build confidence while volunteering.

Caregiver Respite

Passport funding may also help pay for respite services.

Respite gives family caregivers time to rest, attend appointments, work, or manage other responsibilities while their loved one receives safe, appropriate support.

Respite may be provided in the home or in the community, depending on the individual’s needs and available services.

Community Participation

Passport funding may help cover support that allows individuals to participate in community life.

Examples include:

  • Recreation programs
  • Volunteer opportunities
  • Social groups
  • Skill-building activities
  • Community outings

The goal is to help individuals become more active, connected, and independent.

Other Eligible Supports

Depending on your circumstances, Passport funding may also be used for other approved services, such as person-directed planning, certain professional supports, transportation related to eligible activities, and other expenses permitted under current Passport guidelines.

Always check with your Passport agency before purchasing services or submitting claims.

Who Can Be Paid Through Passport Funding?

Families often ask whether they can hire someone they already know.

Passport funding has rules about who can and cannot be paid.

Some family members or trusted individuals may be eligible to provide paid support, while others are not.

These rules can change, so it is important to confirm your specific situation with your local Passport agency before making arrangements.

What Passport Funding Does Not Cover

Passport funding is intended for approved developmental supports. It is generally not used for everyday living expenses.

Examples of expenses that are typically not covered include:

  • Rent or mortgage payments
  • Groceries
  • Household bills
  • General home maintenance
  • Personal expenses that are unrelated to approved developmental supports
  • Items already funded through another government program

If you are unsure whether an expense is eligible, ask your Passport agency before making the purchase.

How Does Payment Work?

In many cases, Passport funding works as a reimbursement program.

You usually pay for an approved service first, then submit your receipts or invoices according to your Passport agency’s claim process.

To avoid delays:

  • Keep copies of all receipts and invoices.
  • Submit claims before the required deadlines.
  • Track your available funding throughout the year.
  • Confirm that a service is eligible before paying for it.

Good record keeping makes the process much easier.

Common Mistakes Families Make

Many families experience delays because they:

  • Assume every support service is automatically covered.
  • Hire a worker before confirming eligibility.
  • Lose receipts or invoices.
  • Wait too long to submit claims.
  • Misunderstand current Passport guidelines.

When you have questions, your Passport agency is the best source for current program information.

How CareVia Support Can Help

Choosing the right support services can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re managing funding, paperwork, and planning for the future.

At CareVia Support, we help families understand their options and build person-centred support plans that focus on meaningful goals.

We can help you:

  • Understand how Passport-funded support services may fit your situation.
  • Explore independent living and community participation.
  • Develop personalized support goals.
  • Build practical life skills.
  • Promote greater independence and confidence.

While Passport agencies determine funding eligibility and approved expenses, CareVia Support helps families understand the process and make informed decisions about the supports that best meet their loved one’s needs.

Need Help Finding the Right Support?

If you’re looking for personalized developmental support or you’re unsure how Passport funding may fit into your support plan, we’re here to help.

Book a free Family Consultation today and learn how CareVia Support can help your loved one build greater independence through person-centred, goal-focused support.

Understanding Passport Funding

Understanding Passport Funding

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If your family has recently been approved for adult developmental services through Developmental Services Ontario (DSO), you’ve probably heard about Passport funding.

Many families ask the same questions:

  • What is Passport funding?
  • Who qualifies?
  • What can it pay for?
  • How do I use it?

This guide explains the program in plain language so you can better understand your options and make informed decisions for your loved one.

What Is Passport Funding?

Passport is an Ontario government program that helps eligible adults with developmental disabilities pay for services and supports that promote greater independence, community participation, and quality of life.

You cannot apply for Passport funding directly. You must first complete the DSO eligibility process. If you are found eligible for adult developmental services, you may also qualify for Passport funding.

Your local Passport agency manages your funding and can answer questions about eligible expenses and claims.

What Can Passport Funding Pay For?

Depending on your individual needs, Passport funding may be used for approved services such as:

  • Developmental support workers
  • Community participation programs
  • Independent living supports
  • Caregiver respite
  • Recreational and social activities
  • Transportation related to approved supports
  • Person-directed planning and other eligible services

Because program guidelines can change, always confirm eligible expenses with your local Passport agency before making a purchase.

Who Decides Your Funding Amount?

Passport funding is based on the individual’s assessed support needs.

Funding amounts vary from person to person and may take into account factors such as:

  • Daily support needs
  • Personal care requirements
  • Community participation goals
  • Living arrangements
  • Caregiver circumstances
  • Available provincial funding

Your Passport agency will explain your approved funding and how it can be used.

How Passport Funding Works

Passport funding usually operates as a reimbursement program. In most cases, you pay for an approved service first and then submit your receipts or invoices for reimbursement.

Many families submit claims electronically through approved online claim systems offered by their Passport agency.

Tips for Managing Your Funding

Good record keeping can save time and prevent delays.

Keep these habits:

  • Save every receipt and invoice.
  • Submit claims before the required deadlines.
  • Track your remaining budget throughout the funding year.
  • Ask your Passport agency if you are unsure whether an expense is eligible.

Common Mistakes Families Make

Many families run into avoidable problems because they:

  • Assume every expense is automatically covered.
  • Wait too long to submit claims.
  • Lose receipts or supporting documents.
  • Miss updates to Passport guidelines.
  • Purchase services before confirming eligibility.

When you’re unsure, ask your Passport agency before spending your funding.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Passport funding pay for a support worker?

Yes. Passport funding may be used for eligible developmental support services, provided they meet current program guidelines.

Can Passport funding be used for community activities?

Yes. Many community participation programs and recreational activities may qualify if they meet Passport eligibility requirements.

Do I receive the money before I purchase services?

In many cases, Passport funding works through reimbursement. Your Passport agency can explain the process that applies to your situation.

Where can I find out if an expense is eligible?

Your local Passport agency is the best source for current program rules and eligible expenses.

How CareVia Support Can Help

Understanding Passport funding can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re planning services for your loved one.

At CareVia Support, we help families understand how Passport funding fits into their overall support plan.

We can help you:

  • Understand how Passport funding works.
  • Explore developmental support options.
  • Build a person-centred support plan.
  • Promote greater independence and community participation.
  • Navigate Ontario’s developmental services system with confidence.

While Passport agencies make all funding decisions, we help families understand the process, explore available supports, and make informed choices.

Book a free Family Consultation today and let us help you understand your options and build a personalized support plan for your loved one.

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What is Developmental Services in Ontario

What Is Developmental Services Ontario (DSO)

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If your child has a developmental disability and is approaching adulthood, you’ve probably heard about Developmental Services Ontario (DSO). You may have heard about it from a teacher, social worker, healthcare professional, or another parent.

Many families ask the same question:

What is DSO, and do we need to apply?

The short answer is yes. For most adults with developmental disabilities in Ontario, DSO is the first step to accessing government-funded adult developmental services.

What Is DSO?

Developmental Services Ontario (DSO) is the entry point to adult developmental services funded by the Ontario government.

DSO does not provide direct support services. Instead, it determines whether a person is eligible for adult developmental services and connects eligible individuals to available programs, funding, and service providers.

Depending on your needs, DSO may connect you with services such as:

  • Passport funding
  • Community participation supports
  • Independent living supports
  • Residential services
  • Caregiver respite
  • Employment supports
  • Behavioural and clinical services through appropriate providers

Available services may vary depending on your location and individual circumstances.

Who Can Apply?

You can begin the DSO application process when a person is 16 years old, although adult services generally begin at age 18.

To qualify, the individual must:

  • Live in Ontario
  • Be at least 16 years old to begin the eligibility process
  • Have documentation confirming a developmental disability that meets Ontario’s eligibility requirements

A diagnosis alone may not be enough. DSO requires specific documentation, usually completed by a qualified psychologist or psychological associate, that meets the legal definition of a developmental disability under Ontario legislation.

If important documents are missing or incomplete, your application may be delayed.

What Happens After You Apply?

The DSO process usually includes several steps.

1. Initial Intake

Your first conversation with DSO usually takes about 30 minutes.

A staff member will ask questions about the individual’s situation and explain the eligibility process.

2. Eligibility Review

DSO reviews your documentation to determine whether the individual is eligible for ministry-funded adult developmental services.

You will receive a written decision once the review is complete.

3. Needs Assessment

If eligibility is confirmed, DSO schedules assessment meetings to better understand the individual’s support needs.

During these meetings, you may be asked about:

  • Daily living skills
  • Communication
  • Personal care
  • Community participation
  • Safety
  • Behavioural support needs
  • Caregiver supports

Parents, guardians, or other people who know the individual well are encouraged to participate.

4. Service Planning

After the assessment, DSO uses the information collected to determine service priorities and connect individuals with available developmental services and funding.

Being eligible does not guarantee immediate services. Some programs have wait times, and access depends on individual needs, available funding, and local resources.

5. Keep Your Information Current

If your circumstances change, let DSO know.

Examples include:

  • A new address
  • Changes in living arrangements
  • Updated assessments
  • Significant changes in support needs

Current information helps ensure your file reflects your family’s situation.

Start Early

One of the biggest mistakes families make is waiting too long.

Although services usually begin at age 18, you can start the eligibility process at age 16.

Starting early gives you more time to:

  • Gather the required documentation
  • Complete assessments
  • Learn about Passport funding
  • Plan for the transition to adult services

Many families who start early experience a smoother transition after high school.

Common Challenges Families Face

Many families tell us they feel overwhelmed by the process.

Common concerns include:

  • Not knowing where to begin
  • Missing required documentation
  • Understanding DSO eligibility requirements
  • Preparing for assessment meetings
  • Learning how Passport funding works
  • Finding the right developmental support services

These challenges are common, especially if this is your first experience with Ontario’s adult developmental services system.

How CareVia Support Can Help

At CareVia Support, we help families understand the developmental services system with confidence.

We provide guidance throughout the process by helping families:

  • Understand DSO eligibility requirements
  • Prepare for DSO assessments
  • Learn about Passport funding
  • Explore available developmental support services
  • Build a personalized support plan based on the individual’s goals

While DSO makes all eligibility and funding decisions, having the right information and preparing early can make the process much easier.

Need Help Navigating DSO?

If you’re preparing for the transition to adult developmental services or you’re unsure where to begin, CareVia Support is here to help.

Book a free Family Consultation today and let us help you understand your options, prepare for the DSO process, and build a support plan that meets your loved one’s needs and future goals.