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From time to time, the Waterloo Region Family Network (WRFN) is asked to distribute information on behalf of third parties. WRFN provides general information to self-advocates and families of children with special needs. The information provided on this website is not a recommendation, referral or endorsement of any resource, therapeutic method, or service provider. WRFN is not responsible for any information or services provided by third parties. You are urged to use independent judgment when considering any resource.
In 2008, the Federal Government created a program to support Individuals to save for their old age - - called the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) Although, this is a federal program, there are administration requirements of the Provincial Government of Ontario. The Federal Government wants to make sure that there is proper support for people to open and draw from their RDSP accounts. The Federal Government is expecting Provinces to co-operate and bring in legislation around how people get supported to open an account and withdraw their funds.
Why should parents open an RDSP account you ask? Well once an RDSP is opened the federal government will put $1,000 Bond into it each year until the individual reaches 49 years old. Additionally if a family member (or someone else )contributes- $1500 each year into the RDSP the federal government will add another $3500 each year as a grant. People will be able use this money to help support the costs that increase as their individual who has a disability ages.
Many provinces (6) have brought in legislation to ensure people have trusted support to manage and withdraw from their RDSP's. The Province of Ontario has NOT yet brought in the legislation required. This means that in order for people to withdraw the money that has been saved on their behalf, they will be required to be declared incompetent and have all their rights as a citizen of Canada and their personhood taken away from them. This is NOT a good solution to the issue and will cost the government a great deal of money. This is a terrible thing to have happen; as well it means a court case that can cost the individual a lot of money.
The alternative is that the Provincial Government of Ontario do what 6 Provinces have already done; which is bring in some legislation that permits trusted friends to support the individual to manage their RDSP funds. None of us make financial decisions alone. We might consult with other family members or with institutions who are set up to help us manage our finances. The belief that people with disabilities have to be declared incapable to manage their finances alone is really ludicrous. It is a violation of the Human Rights code as well as being contrary to Article 12 of the United Nations “Convention on the rights of persons with Disabilities “ of which Canada is a signatory.
SO HERE IS THE HELP WE NEED FROM FAMILIES. Below is a link to a form letter that we are asking you to sign and send to your MPP (member of Provincial Parliament) We are hoping to get a provincial response to see if we can encourage the Provincial Government to enact the required legislation.
Click here to find out the name of your local MPP and their office email address.
Click here to find the form letter created by Family Alliance.
Please send an email to your MPP, copying familyallianceont@gmail.com to let us know that you were able to send to your local MPP.
Thank you for your action. - As families banding together, we are hopeful we can bring about the legislative changes that are required to benefit all our individuals with disabilities.
