At the Options program, we work in partnership with individuals with developmental disabilities, and their families, friends and communities.
Options is dedicated to creating welcoming, inclusive communities where everyone can contribute their skills and talents. We work in the city of Toronto, supporting children and adults, their families and surrounding communities. We work with community organizations, developmental service agencies, and schools, in order to create community connections.
Our focus is on equity and inclusion and is guided by a person-directed approach, allowing us to support and empower individuals and families.
Services are available to adults (18 and over) diagnosed with developmental/intellectual disability and their families, who reside in Toronto. This service is free and is funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS).
Family Service Toronto is starting an Accessibility Advisory Workgroup. We are looking for FST clients who would like to share their experiences and help make recommendations to improve access to services here at Family Service Toronto. Learn more about how you can support us.
Community Resource Facilitators collaborate with individuals, families and caregivers to reach their desired goals. This is accomplished through service coordination, community connections, circles of support and advocacy. Our approach is to break down barriers and find ways to facilitate interconnected lives within family groups and communities. This service can only be accessed through Developmental Services Ontario (DSO).
Community Networking is a process that challenges and invites ordinary places to be more inclusive. Community Network Facilitators work with individuals, families, small groups and community organizations to explore and build connections with community places and people. Our work supports individuals to explore their interests and enhance their community involvement. This service is only available if you are already an Options client.
To become an Options client as an adult, you will need to apply to the DSO, and be referred to us by the DSO. You cannot obtain Options services by contacting Options directly.
Yes. The waitlist for adult services is held at the DSO. The waitlist for children’s services with Options is held with the Options-Children program.
Options does not provide funding or financial resources for clients.
As an Options client, you may still receive services from other agencies (such as day programs, respite services, housing, and employment services). You may not have a second case manager through another agency.
Options is government-funded, so it will not cost you personal funding to access our services.
To find information about student placements at Family Service Toronto, please explore the ‘Student Placements’ section of the Family Service Toronto website.
To find out about volunteering in the Options program, please explore the ‘Volunteer at FST’ section of the website.
This group is dedicated to FST clients, 18 years or over. Participants have a chance to have fun, talk about staying healthy, feeling supported and potentially forming meaningful connections. During meetings, the topics of discussion are chosen collaboratively by participants. Volunteers help run the group with assistance from FST staff.
The group is open and ongoing, holding regular meetings every Monday from 12 to 1 p.m., except on public holidays.
If you want to participate please contact:
Heather Shaw: 416-846 4930 [email protected]; or
Joel Schreiber: 437 224 0584 [email protected]
Best Buddies is an international program dedicated to breaking down barriers between people and erasing misconceptions about individuals with developmental disabilities. The program creates opportunities for one-to-one friendships by matching Options clients with volunteer university students. Contact your Options worker if you are interested in the best buddies program
Clients, parents, and caregivers in the Building Inclusive Communities Programs were invited to participate in a conversation about their experiences with Options and Passport services. Data was collected through two virtual group consultations and individual phone calls. The Family Service Toronto – Building Inclusive Communities Virtual Stakeholder Consultation Report is a summary of conversations that took place. Family Service Toronto would like to thank the clients and parents who were able to participate on such short notice, and for sharing their personal stories and feedback with us.
Options – Adults is offered at the following location(s):