May 9th, 2017

MPP Gretzky calls on Wynne government to help Ontarians with developmental disabilities

During question period on Tuesday, Lisa Gretzky, NDP MPP for Windsor West, demanded that the Wynne government begin helping thousands of adults with developmental disabilities, and their families, by increasing funding for supportive programs and housing. 

Gretzky, the NDP's critic for community and social services, raised the struggles of 16-year-old Abdullah Yar Khan and his family. Khan, who lives in Windsor, has severe autism and his family is struggling to care for him without the necessary supports.

'Abdullah is unable to communicate his needs. He has been excluded from school because of lack of supports in the education system.  His parents – with their own health issues – struggle with his care. They don’t receivesupportor respite during school hours even though Abdullah isn’t allowed to attend school,' said Gretzky.

'What funding, direct programming, or direct support does the Wynne government have in place for Abdullah and his parents?'  

Community Living Ontario, a family-based association that assists people who have an intellectual disability and their families, was in Queen’s Park on Tuesday calling on the Wynne government for desperately needed help for Ontario families and their support workers.      

“According to Community Living Ontario, the money announced in the budget will only work towards stabilizing workforce funding – badly neglected and in need of fixing – but promised in 2014.

“Millions of dollars in base funding increases are needed to help Ontarians like Abdullah and his parents,' Gretzky said.  'And it’s not just Abdullah.  Thousands of desperate parents of aging children, fast becoming adults with developmental disabilities, need supportive housing and programs.

“What does the Wynne government have to say to Abdullah’s mom, Shabana, and the thousands of other Ontario families in the same dire situation?”