Passport Services

The Passport program at Community Living Owen Sound & District strives to connect people to their community by enhancing skills, and providing supports so members of the program can safely participate in local events and be an active member of the community.

We are passionate about encouraging natural and meaningful connections with all members of the community and on providing opportunities for experiences and supports adding meaning and value to someone’s life.

What is Passport?

The Passport Program, is a reimbursement program funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS), and provides individualized funding to adults (18+) with developmental disabilities to be involved in, and access their communities and to live as independently as possible.

Are You Eligible to Receive Passport Funding?

If you are an adult with a developmental disability, you may qualify for Passport funding.

How do I apply?

To apply for Passport funding, you must connect with your local Developmental Service Ontario (DSO) office.
You can start the application process with the DSO as early as 16 years old. But you will not be eligible for approved funding until you are at least 18 years of age.

The Phone number for DSO Southwest region is: 519-371-8428

For more information about the Passport program visit the DSO website: Passport program | DSO (dsontario.ca)

How can you use your Passport Funds?

Once your Passport funding is approved by the DSO, it is your decision whether to:

Self-Administer all the funds on your own, or to
Choose assistance with the administration of all your funding through a Transfer Payment Agency (TPA) or broker, or to
Self-Administer some of your funds, and have some administered by a TPA or broker.

The Administration of Passport Funds is one of the services offered through Community Living Owen Sound & District. Whichever option you choose, we are able to assist you in getting started.

How does it work?

Purchase of Services/Administration of your Funding:

Community Living Owen Sound & District and our Passport team is here to help you understand and administer your Passport funds through purchase of services.

Some of the options we offer include:

Individualized, person-centered approach to planning and budgeting of your Passport funds
Providing you with choice of Individualized supports including one-to-one supports and group supports
Providing you with valued and meaningful experiences through quality supports
Providing supports so you can enhance your skills to participate fully in your community
Assistance with volunteer activities, daily life activities, and leisure activities
Employment supports

What are the Benefits of Purchasing Services Directly Through CLOS&D?

What are the benefits to you in having Community Living Owen Sound & District administering passport funds?

When Community Living Owen Sound & District administers your Passport Funds, the process is simplified. We take care of all the paper work and we recoup directly from Passport so you don’t need to spend your own money up front.

To purchase Community Living Owen Sound & District Passport Support Services and participation in our Passport programming, you must have been approved with Passport funding through the DSO.

We’ll start by working with you to create a plan and a budget based on how you’d like to use your Passport funding at Community Living Owen Sound & District. Your plan and your Individualized Passport Support will look different for everyone, because everyone is different. You choose the support services you want and need.

We are committed to provide services centered around the needs and wants of those who choose us to administer their funds.

These supports might include:

Providing direct supports to participate in the community or to live successfully in your own home
Support to coordinate community activities
Researching social, cultural, recreational or athletic community engagement opportunities
Registering for a program, class or activity
Purchasing tickets for an event or supplies for an activity
Support to foster independence and develop skills that lead to community participation, including employment and volunteerism
And more!

What are the benefits of group activities?

Group activities bring individuals with similar interests together and is a critical social component. Group activities benefit everyone in our community, here’s why:

Diverse Perspectives

Group learning brings together individuals with different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives, fostering a rich environment for idea exchange and creativity.

Enhanced Communication Skills

Collaborative activities promote effective communication, as individuals learn to express their thoughts clearly, listen actively, and provide constructive feedback.

Improved Problem-Solving

Group activities encourage collective problem-solving, allowing members to pool their skills and knowledge to find innovative solutions. This fosters critical thinking and creativity.

Increased Engagement

Working in a group can enhance motivation and engagement as individuals feel a sense of accountability to their peers, making the learning process more enjoyable and meaningful.

Skill Development

Group activities provide opportunities for members to develop various skills such as leadership, teamwork, negotiation, and conflict resolution, which are valuable in social, workplace, and all other real-world settings.

Social Interaction

Group learning promotes socialization, helping individuals build relationships, develop interpersonal skills, and create a supportive learning community.

Increased Retention of Information

Discussing and teaching concepts to others within a group setting can enhance understanding and retention of information, as individuals benefit from different learning styles.

Builds a Sense of Community

Group activities foster a sense of belonging and community, creating a positive and supportive learning environment that can contribute to overall well-being.

Promotes Peer Teaching and Learning

Group settings provide opportunities for peer teaching, where individuals can share their expertise, reinforcing their own understanding while helping others grasp challenging concepts.

Enhances Emotional Intelligence

Interacting within a group setting allows individuals to develop emotional intelligence by understanding and managing their own emotions as well as recognizing and empathizing with the emotions of others.

Encourages Open-Mindedness

Exposure to different viewpoints within a group setting encourages open-mindedness and tolerance, promoting a culture of acceptance and diversity.

There are no upcoming events.

Latest Past Events

September 29 @ 10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Have questions?

Please complete this form and a team member will get back to you within 7 to 10 business days.

Passport Services