TRANSPORTATION Transportation is helpful in maintaining employment, education, healthcare and community life. Transportation services will allow you to live independently within the community. If you do not drive, there are generally two options: public transit and paratransit. Public transit includes fixed route public transportation by bus, subway and light rail. Paratransit includes
HOUSING A home of one’s own, either rented or owned, is the cornerstone of independence for any individual. Many people with disabilities face tremendous difficulties in getting and keeping adequate housing. They face obstacles like discrimination, inaccessible construction and unaffordable housing. There are many government supports for home ownership and rental housing
ADVOCACY Disability advocates provide assistance and support to ensure that: Your rights are upheld You are an active participate in the decision-making processes Your needs and views are presented to government, service providers and the broader community However, it is very important to advocate for yourself. Even though there are numerous experts
SUPPORT SERVICES As members of the community, you can access a range of general services including community health, sports and recreation, employment and maternal and child healthcare services. You can request disability supports if: You have an intellectual, physical, sensory or neurological disability or an acquired brain injury The disability impacts your mobility,
FINANCIAL RESOURCES & BENEFITS Proper financial planning is very important – it is never too early to plan ahead! Creating a financial plan requires you, and your support system, to consider your vision for life when you get older. First, ask yourself these questions: What supports will need to be in place
FINANCIAL RESOURCES & BENEFITS Proper financial planning is very important – it is never too early to plan ahead! Creating a financial plan requires you, and your support system, to consider your vision for life when you get older. First, ask yourself these questions: What supports will need to be in place
SUPPORT SERVICES Families with a child with a disability often need specific information, including: details about the disability, school services, therapy, local policies, funding sources, transportation, medical facilities and much more. As parents, you know your children best, so look for a professional team that will truly listen to your interests and
HOUSING A home of one’s own, either rented or owned, is the cornerstone of independence for any individual. Many people with disabilities face tremendous difficulties in getting and keeping adequate housing. They face obstacles like discrimination, inaccessible construction and unaffordable housing. There are many government supports for home ownership and rental housing
FINANCIAL RESOURCES Having a child with special needs can be very expensive and time-consuming. Fortunately, there are funds available to assist families. It is also important to plan ahead and put certain pieces in place early on to ensure that if something happens to you, your child will be cared for and
EMPLOYMENT/CAREER Individuals of varying ability can work! As you consider entering the workforce, you should do some career exploration. This allows you to examine your skills, interests, preferences and abilities and how they might match up with various jobs and careers. One idea is to take a self-assessment, which gives you a
