Adult day programs for individuals with special needs are an integral component in the lives of this forgotten population as well as the lives of those who take care of them such as their caregivers. With the arrival of Covid-19, these crucial programs have been shut down altogether, even while waiting lists for such individuals to attend these programs were growing ever larger and acceptance into one meant years of waiting. Since the reopening of facilities and services in the KW region along with the rest of the province of Ontario due to Covid restrictions being removed by the government on daycares, schools, senior day programs, and many other services, adult day programs for special needs citizens have not been permitted to reopen under government regulations with the excuse that they are being restructured. Subsequently, it has been revealed by the government that the reopening of such programs will be gearedonly towards the most independent members of people with special needs in society. Hence, those who do not qualify underthis category have been left behind with nowhere to go, many of whom are living with their families and require 100% supervision. This has resulted in situations where caregivers cannot go to their jobs or get some respite because they cannot afford private care within their home.

Adult day programs for individuals with special needs are beneficial for them for so many reasons. In summary, they allow them the opportunity to achieve goals to their fullest potentialincluding learning important life skills, fostering independence for those who have the potential and ability, job opportunities and social interaction with others, as well as community participation and enjoyment through inclusive and meaningful leisure activities geared toward ALL levels for individuals with special needs. However, with the closure of these programs, all of these opportunities are lost and the mental health of theparticipants and their caregivers as well as the jobs of caregiversare at risk. Consequently, depression and aggressive behaviours can emerge within this vulnerable population and the financial strain on caregivers not being able to attend their work or find affordable homecare for their loved ones is having major consequences.

Therefore, it is obvious how important adult day programs are to people with special needs and how caregivers rely on them to continue attending their jobs and have opportunities for respite while keeping their loved ones safe and occupied. They work! Regrettably, the government is not providing solutions or ways to cope with stress for these families while the supposed “restructuring” is happening and this world pandemic does not seem to want to end. Moreover, many private programs are not accepting individuals who have aggressive behaviors or are 100% dependent on supervision or assistance with life skills. It has become a very sad and dire situation and there is no doubt that these people are being discriminated against and are being thrown onto the back burner whereas the government is concerned.

The reopening of the special needs adult day programs is critical and will benefit participants and caregivers both short term and long term. With safety protocols in place, they ensure a healthy and safe environment for all adults with special needs…and a place to go and feel like they are worth something to society!

LET’S SIGN THIS PETITION AND HELP THESE FAMILIES TO ACHIEVE STABILITY AND BALANCE