Disability Supports in Canada
There are many federal and provincial disability supports in Canada available for people with Down syndrome. Canada is committed to ensuring effective supports and programs are in place for people with disabilities and their families.
Below, you will find our recommended resources for information on the federal and provincial disability supports currently available, how services vary from province to province, and provincial associations for community living that can help with advocacy, support and respect for human rights.
Federal Supports and Resources
Canada Disability Benefit, Plan Institute
A comprehensive overview of the upcoming national Canada Disability Benefit, offering information, resources, and support, including on the Disability Tax Credit. As the regulations become finalized, this resource will be updated accordingly.
Disability Tax Credit, Government of Canada
Information about the Disability Tax Credit, including eligibility and application instructions.
Disability Benefits, Government of Canada
An overview of federal benefits available for people with disabilities in Canada.
Disability Rights, Government of Canada
Information from the Canadian Human Rights Commission about fundamental human rights and how to make a complaint if you have experienced discrimination or faced barriers.
About Henson Trusts
Information about Henson trusts, a financial tool that provides financial support for people with disabilities without affecting their eligibility for government assistance programs. Learn about how to set up a Henson trust, complying with provincial laws, taxation, and other support mechanisms.
The Disability Tax Credit Ultimate Resource Guide
An extensive guide to help you navigate the Disability Tax Credit and learn about the Disability Tax Credit definition, eligibility and application process.
Disability Planning Helpline, Plan Institute
Contact Plan Institute for one on one support for Disability Tax Credit applications, answers to questions about the RDSP, and information about other government benefit programs. This resource is free of charge.
The Ultimate CPP Disability Guide
An in-depth guide to help you apply and appeal for CPP Disability and learn about the eligibility requirements, application and appeals process for disability.
3.21 Magazine: The Money Issue
This issue is an excellent resource for caregivers and parents that will equip you with the information you need to help your loved one make wise financial decisions in both the short and long term.
- A money math and budgeting instructor provides strategies for helping people with Down syndrome develop their money management skills
- Self-advocates let us in on how they make their spending decisions
- Financial professionals answer some of the most asked questions in the disability community
- A sibling caregiver shares her experience becoming a primary caregiver and working with her brother on monthly budgeting and spending
- A clear explanation of the financial supports available for disabled citizens, including the Disability Tax Credit, RDSP, and the forthcoming Canada Disability Benefit, and their advantages and disadvantages
Provincial Supports
British Columbia
Disability Assistance Individuals age 18 and older with disabilities who meet financial eligibility requirements can receive financial support from the provincial government.
Government of BC Special Needs Supports for Families – Caregivers of children and youth with disabilities may be eligible for supports such as respite counselling, social and life skills training, and behavioural support services.
Inclusion BC – Provides advocacy support, resources, and learning events to people across the province free of charge.
Saskatchewan
Government of Saskatchewan Social Supports for People with Disabilities – Supports from the provincial government for people with disabilities, including employability assistance, housing support, and respite for caregivers.
Saskatchewan Assured Income for Disability (SAID) – An income support program for people with longterm disabilities focused on supporting the daily living and disability related-needs of individuals.
Inclusion Saskatchewan – Provides advocacy, employment support, educational opportunities, resources, and peer to peer support.
Ontario
Government of Ontario Disability Support Program(ODSP) – Financial assistance and employment supports for individuals with disabilities to help cover living expenses and achieve greater independence
Developmental Services Ontario (DSO) – Connects adults with developmental disabilities to services and supports, including residential care, community participation, and respite
Government of Ontario, Ministry of Children, Community – Oversees programs and resources for children, families, and individuals with disabilities in Ontario
Community Living Ontario – Offers advocacy, employment services, education initiatives, and resources to promote inclusion for people with disabilities.
New Brunswick
Government of New Brunswick Disability Support Program (DSP) – Offers individualized support for adults with disabilities to promote independence, inclusion, and community participation.
Government of New Brunswick Social Development Persons with Disabilities – Provides various programs and services, including housing support, income assistance, and respite care for individuals with disabilities.
New Brunswick Association for Community Living– Advocates for inclusive communities and provides resources, employment support, and peer networks for individuals with disabilities and their families.
Newfoundland and Labrador
Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, For Persons with Disabilities – The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador provides health and community services for individuals with disabilities, including accessibility resources, financial aid, and caregiver support.
Inclusion Newfoundland and Labrador – Advocates for inclusive communities and offers resources, support programs, and opportunities for individuals with disabilities and their families.
Northwest Territories
Government of Northwest Territories Programs and Services for Persons with Disabilities Inventory – A comprehensive directory of supports available for individuals with disabilities, including housing assistance, income support, and community services.
Northwest Territories – Yellowknife Association for Community Living – Provides advocacy, employment support, skills training, and inclusive community initiatives for individuals with disabilities and their families.
Alberta
Government of Alberta, People with Disabilities – The Government of Alberta provides programs and resources for individuals with disabilities, including financial assistance, employment services, and housing supports.
Government of Alberta Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD) – Offers funding and services to families to help them care for children with disabilities, including respite, counseling, and specialized services.
Inclusion Alberta – Advocates for inclusive communities and delivers supports such as education, employment assistance, and family resources for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Manitoba
Government of Manitoba, Community Living disABILITY Services – Provides a range of supports and services for individuals with intellectual disabilities, including residential, employment, and community participation assistance.
Government of Manitoba, Children’s disABILITY Services – Offers support for children with disabilities and their families, including access to respite care, financial assistance, and specialized services to enhance quality of life.
Inclusion Winnipeg – Supports individuals with intellectual disabilities by offering advocacy, programs, and resources focused on community inclusion, employment, and social participation.
Community Living Manitoba – Advocates for the rights of individuals with disabilities and provides services such as peer support, family resources, and employment initiatives to enhance inclusion.
Quebec
Government of Quebec, Services for Persons with a Physical or Intellectual Disability or an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) – The Government of Quebec offers a variety of services, including personalized care, social integration support, and specialized programs for individuals with physical, intellectual, or autism spectrum disabilities.
Government of Quebec, Disability Benefits – Provides financial assistance to individuals with disabilities, including income support and additional services to help with living costs and disability-related needs.
Quebec Accessible – A platform focused on promoting accessibility, providing resources and information to help individuals with disabilities access community services and supports.
Family Support Guide for the Parents of a Child or of an Adult with a Disability – Offers guidance, resources, and support services to families caring for individuals with disabilities, including financial assistance, healthcare services, and educational support.
Nova Scotia
Government of Nova Scotia Disability Support Program – The Government of Nova Scotia provides financial assistance and community-based services to individuals with disabilities, including income support, housing assistance, and employment programs.
Government of Nova Scotia, Community Services Direct Family Support for Children – Offers funding and services to families of children with disabilities, including respite care, specialized equipment, and home adaptations to support daily living.
Nova Scotia Association for Community Living – Advocates for inclusion and provides programs, resources, and support for individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families.
Nunavut
Government of Nunavut Income Assistance – The Government of Nunavut provides financial support for individuals and families in need, including those with disabilities, to help cover basic living expenses and promote independence.
Nunavummi Disabilities Makinnasuaqtiit Society – Advocates for the inclusion and rights of individuals with disabilities in Nunavut, providing resources, community programs, and support services to improve quality of life.
Yukon
Government of Yukon Services for People with Disabilities – The Government of Yukon offers a range of services for individuals with disabilities, including financial assistance, community support programs, and resources to promote independence and inclusion.
Government of Yukon Family Supports for Children with Disabilities – Provides support for families caring for children with disabilities, including funding for respite care, specialized services, and equipment to assist with daily needs.
Inclusion Yukon – Advocates for the rights of individuals with disabilities and offers programs, support services, and resources to foster community inclusion, employment opportunities, and social participation.