A small group of northern Ontario families gathered with signs outside of the Prince Arthur Hotel where Minister of Northern Development of Mines Greg Rickford was speaking at a Chamber of Commerce event. The group would like to see more provincial funding for group homes and other supports with families with autistic children.
Adrianna Atkins tells us the province isn’t coming out with its new autism plan until the spring and they can’t wait that long. Atkins is hoping Minister Rickford will reach out to them and hear their concerns. She explains the government is providing families with payment cheques for their children but it’s not enough since programs are quite expensive. Atkins adds most programs that can offer help to autistic children and families have been closed by the provincial government and those that remain are full with a long waiting list.
When asked about the rally, Rickford said he has been focused on the waiting list in northwestern Ontario. He notes he and his government has a very positive relationship with the families and respect their ongoing concerns.
