“Respite” has evolved into “Connections” for families.  The Family Connection Program supports families/guardians who have a person with a developmental disability living in their home.  Connections provides a variety of resources which families can use at their discretion.

About Respite

        For people of all ages who have developmental disabilities who are often isolated from peers, respite provides the opportunity to have friends, participate in activities, to have fun, build on their strengths, experience new adventures and to gain new friendships.

Who are Respite Providers?

        People who have been carefully screened by the Connections Manager.  Those chosen have the attitudes which reflect Commmunity Living’s principles and values and have the necessary skills to meet the needs of the person they support.  Respite providers and people supported are matched on an individual basis according to the needs, personalities and skills of both parties.

Types of Support

        In-home involves selecting a support worker to do one of the following on a regular basis depending on the arrangements made to best suit the family’s needs:

·  Go into the home of the person receiving care.

·  Take the person supported out to recreational events.

·  Go with the person to appointments.

·  Take the person supported to their home.

        Hosting involves matching the person's family with another family who is interested in sharing their home while caring for and supporting a person who has an developmental disability for a short period of time.

        Periods of hosting range from a few hours in a day to overnight, to several consecutive days.

        Families are encouraged to utilize these services regularly; frequently or infrequently, as they require, to meet the needs of their particular family unit.

What people supported, providers,and parents have to say

about our program:

        “…..provides an opportunity to develop long lasting friendships.”

        “My daughter has really enjoyed her worker and has looked forward to all their trips together.”

        “I have learnt so much and met so many wonderful people doing respite.”

        “I was very impressed with our worker.  She is kind, considerate, and just an all around nice girl.”

        “It gave both my husband and I a break.”

        “Respite has a different meaning to different people.  Each respite match is a unique experience and friendship to the individual and their support provider.”

Parents contribute towards the cost according to their own financial resources.

For further information contact:

Josie De Martino

Family Connections Manager

Phone: 905-898-3000 (247)

E-Mail: jdemartino@clnad.com