Your Devices
Your Rights
Modernize Ontario’s Assistive Devices Program to empower independence and enhance dignity for all Ontarians with disabilities
The Path to Change
The Problem
Ontarians living with disabilities rely on assistive devices to maintain independence, dignity, and quality of life. However, the Ontario Ministry of Health's Assistive Devices Program (ADP) falls short of meeting these needs. It excludes many essential devices and lacks a patient-centric approach in its funding criteria. As a result, individuals with disabilities face limited choices in the types of devices that are covered and financial burdens, impacting their ability to lead fulfilling lives. This outdated system leaves too many Ontarians underserved and struggling to advocate for their basic needs.
Modernize Ontario's Assistive Devices Program for Greater Independence
The Problem
The Solution
The Solution
ADP must evolve into a patient-centric program that ensures access to basic and essential assistive devices for all Ontarians with disabilities. By expanding the range of covered devices and incorporating direct input from individuals with disabilities, the Program can address the diverse and evolving needs of its users. Modernizing ADP will empower Ontarians with disabilities to live independently, participate fully in society, and enjoy a quality of life that aligns with their rights and dignity.
Ontarians living with disabilities rely on assistive devices to maintain independence, dignity, and quality of life. However, the Ontario Ministry of Health's Assistive Devices Program (ADP) falls short of meeting these needs. It excludes many essential devices and lacks a patient-centric approach in its funding criteria. As a result, individuals with disabilities face limited choices in the types of devices that are covered and financial burdens, impacting their ability to lead fulfilling lives. This outdated system leaves too many Ontarians underserved and struggling to advocate for their basic needs.
The Path to Change
Meet Jules
Jules was born with SEPT11, a rare genetic disorder. Through hard work, he has improved his balance, but he still needs costly accessibility and mobility equipment every day. Thanks to support from local organizations, his family was able to purchase a $5,000 bath chair—an essential tool for both hygiene and enjoyment. With head, waist, and leg supports, it keeps him safe while allowing him to experience the simple joy of being in the water, just like any other child. Many of these vital equipments remain underfunded or are not covered by the current ADP program.
Meet Chris
Chris’s seat elevator helps him stay included, whether sitting at a high-top table, reaching shelves at home, or chatting at eye level.
Many others miss out on this independence because ADP funding does not cover essential features like wheelchair seat elevation. More support is needed to ensure everyone has access to the mobility equipment that improve their daily lives.
Meet Madi
Madi has Brittle Bone Disease, a rare condition that causes her bones to break easily. She relies on essential equipment like a walker, wheelchair, stair lift, bath lift, and van lift to maintain mobility and independence. In the past, she has received support from local organizations to help fund equipment which were either underfunded or not covered by the current ADP program.
Meet Nouma
Nouma received a Permobil C300 with the tilt feature, which helps prevent pressure sores and improves circulation. While Nouma got the support she needed, many others struggle due to gaps in ADP funding, leaving them without essential equipment. More funding is needed to ensure everyone gets the mobility support they deserve.
Meet Sean'John
Sean’John depends on a porch lift, wheelchair, and bath seat for comfort and mobility. At 55 lbs., lifting him was becoming difficult, so they turned to local organizations to help fund equipment which were either underfunded or not covered by the current ADP program. His mother, Melissa, notes that his new wheelchair has helped him relax, while the porch lift and bath seat allow them to enjoy simple pleasures, like going outside.
Meet Ron
Ron’s ultralow seat lets him sit comfortably at tables and stay stable on different terrains. His custom cushion and backrest make long days in his chair easier.
Many others, however, go without these essential features due to gaps in ADP funding. More support is needed to ensure everyone is provided with equipment that truly fits their needs.
Meet JL
JL, a strong 6-year-old born with Trisomy 18, needs equipment for her health and safety, including a lift. With help from local organizations, her family was able to afford a stroller, allowing JL to enjoy walks in the community. A stroller is an essential item that is underfunded by the current ADP program.
Meet Ethan
Ethan, a growing six-year-old, has outgrown his stander, walker, and wheelchair, leaving only his bath chair. At nearly 70 lbs., his mother, Angela, struggles to lift him safely, even injuring her shoulder. To ensure their safety and reduce injury risks, they urgently needed a ceiling track lift. Many of these essential items are underfunded or not covered by the ADP program
Navigating Life with Underfunded Equipment
Upcoming Candidate Meetings & Events
Wed, Feb 19150 Kilgour Rd, Toronto, ON M4G 1R8, Canada
Mon, Feb 17CBC Television and CBC Radio
Fri, Feb 14Virtual Event
Support the Change:
Help Secure Essential Equipment for All
Many individuals with disabilities face daily challenges due to underfunded or uncovered equipment, impacting their independence and quality of life. By signing our Change.org petition, you can help raise awareness and push for better coverage and funding for essential mobility and accessibility equipment.
