Balance Support & Self Care Studios Responds to Ontario's Fall Economic Outlook

For Immediate Release

Date: November 2026

Location: Hamilton, Ontario

Contact: balanceSSCS@gmail.com

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Following the release of Ontario’s Fall Economic Outlook, which solidifies the $965 million investment into the Ontario Autism Program (OAP) for the 2026–27 fiscal year, Balance Support & Self Care Studios is reinforcing its commitment to ensuring these public dollars translate into accessible, dignified support for families on the ground.

We welcome and acknowledge recent positive steps taken by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS). The implementation of the Determination of Needs (DON) waiver option and the ongoing continuation of Workforce Capacity Fund grants indicate a meaningful willingness to listen to community feedback, alleviate parental burdens, and build vital sector capacity. Because the OAP framework is structurally different from its predecessors, we recognize that addressing deep-seated administrative and technological challenges is an ongoing process that requires time.

However, significant work remains to ensure that families can seamlessly utilize their funding without friction. On the ground, complex administrative barriers and inconsistent interpretations of eligible expense guidelines continue to create obstacles for families attempting to access specialized sensory-regulation and movement-based equipment recommended by regulated professionals. When valid clinical recommendations face arbitrary front-end denials, it creates unexpected financial stress and disrupts essential environmental supports.

We are encouraged by MCCSS's openness to making adjustments. The DON waiver and workforce grants are strong steps in the right direction.

We look forward to continuing our collaborative dialogue with Minister Michael Parsa and his team to further reduce administrative bottlenecks, build system consistency, and ensure that the OAP robustly supports the unique needs of every autistic child and youth in Ontario.

Balance Support & Self Care Studios was created with parents and caregivers of individuals with diverse needs in mind. We recognize the value of the staff and community. We are committed to striving for excellence through inclusiveness, team collaboration, quality of services, and the participation and contributions of volunteers and community members. To learn more, please check out our website

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