Passport Program

Overview

The transformation of adult developmental services and supports in Ontario is based on the overarching principle that people who have a developmental disability are people first, and focuses on independence, dignity and self-reliance. The fundamental vision is to support the full inclusion of Ontarians with developmental disabilities in all aspects of society.

Passport is a program that helps adults who have 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.

There are two payment options in the Passport program. Recipients can choose to receive direct funding to develop their own support arrangements and hire their own support workers and service providers. For those who prefer to receive supports from a developmental services agency, the Passport Agency will arrange payments with the chosen service provider(s).

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, decision-making and enable the achievement of goals.
Promote social inclusion and broaden social relationships by supporting the use of community resources and services available to everyone in the community.
Help people make the transition 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 caring role.

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

Person-centred - services and supports build on individuals' strengths and are responsive to their preferences, needs and values.
Choice and Flexibility - individuals identify and participate in activities that are meaningful to them. Direct funding is available to give Passport participants more options in how services are provided.
Strong Families and Caregivers - the individual's family/personal support network is recognized as the primary support for adults with a developmental disability.
Fairness and Equity - funding amounts are based on a provincial application and needs assessment process and funding formula.
Accountability - individuals, families and service delivery agents use Passport funding for its intended purpose and comply with spending rules and reporting requirements.

The Community Services Coordination Network is the Passport Agency serving people who live in the following communities: