Municipalities need to put in place measures to facilitate the integration of children with disabilities into their summer camps. This equal access for persons with disabilities to municipal recreations and services offered is a legal right based in the Charter of Human Rights and Freedoms. These measures can also be provided in the action plan for persons with disabilities produced annually by municipalities with 15,000 inhabitants and over. This falls under the Act for persons with disabilities to exercise their rights in regards to school, professional and social integration. [1]
Municipalities providing services to children with disabilities can put in place various accommodating measures for them. This integration aims, among other things, to offer children the opportunity to develop their potential, to socialize with other people and to maintain their achievements in terms of autonomy while learning social skills. The cost of registering a disabled child is always the same as that of a child without a disability. [2]
To help, here are some references and tips:
Not sure which activities are available near you or which ones might appeal to your child? You can contact the recreation department of your municipality to find out about the activities offered in your area.
- The Solidarity a votre portée portal (www.portailrepit.com) not only helps you to find respite, but also day camps and summer camps. You will be able to search for services according to your region and the needs of your child, as well as the period of the year desired.
- You can visit the Altergo website (www.altergo.ca) in the Resources / Directory of Member Activities section.
- You can also consult the website for Association des camps du Québec (www.camps.qc.ca) to find a camp specializing in the Special Needs section and do a search according to the needs of your child and your region.
- The site www.laccompagnateur.org is also a resource that can help you in your search.
Summer activities can sometimes be expensive. That’s why it’s important to get financial help.
Discuss with your social worker the possibilities available to you. The Family Support Program (Programme de soutien à la famille – SAF) should be one of these. This program provides a subsidy to families, providing them with respite and babysitting services. The grant that is allocated can be used to fund family support services such as: respite, babysitting, day camp and regular or specialized stay, according to the intervention plan that has been established and agreed between the family and his / her responsible party.
Some Foundations (www.fondationbondepart.ca, www.labattbettertogether.ca) can also help you defray some of the costs of these activities. It is important to consult the websites of these foundations or to contact them directly to find out how to be awarded financial assistance.
[1] Source : Office des personnes handicapées du Québec website www.ophq.gouv.qc.ca
[2] Source : Office des personnes handicapées du Québec website www.ophq.gouv.qc.ca