Passport Program

Passport funding helps adults with a developmental disability be involved in their communities and live as independently as possible by providing funding for community participation services and supports, activities of daily living and person-directed planning. The program also provides funding for caregiver respite services and supports for primary caregivers of an adult with a developmental disability.

The key goals of the Passport program are to:

• foster independence by building on individuals' abilities and developing community participation, social and daily living skills
• increase opportunities for participation in the community with supports that respect personal choices and decision-making, and help people achieve their goals
• promote social inclusion and broaden social relationships through the use of community resources and services available to everyone in the community
• help young people make the transition from school to life as an adult in the community
• support families and caregivers of an adult with a developmental disability so they can continue in their supportive role.

The services and supports funded under Passport are guided by the following principles:

• person-centred/directed
• choice and flexibility
• strong families and caregivers
• fairness and equity
• accountability.

Any adult who is eligible for developmental services and supports funded by the Ministry of Community and Social Services, including young adults who are 18 years of age and still in school, may apply for funding through Passport.

Individuals in Perth County must contact the Developmental Services Ontario (DSO) Southwest Region office to request these services. Once an individual's eligibility has been confirmed and they have completed the Developmental Services Application Package, their information will be transferred to Family Services Perth-Huron. For more information on how to make an application, contact Nancy Farr, Respite Coordinator.