Being a parent of a disabled child means finances can be tight. Months of inflation and government shortfalls make it worse

Inadequate government support, policy gaps, and a year of surging inflation: It’s the perfect storm that is hitting families with children and youth with disabilities. With inflation plaguing every household in the country, families with children and youth with disabilities, who already have minimal support, are further disadvantaged. Essential services are only minimally covered by OHIP, such as a limited number of rehabilitative therapy sessions, adaptive equipment, assistive technology, and respite care services. Many people, however, aren’t aware of the reality that parents of children with disabilities are faced with daily. Khadija Zafar is a service navigator at SMILE Canada Support Services that supports racialized children with disabilities and their families.