Services for Children with Developmental Disabilities
WoodGreen supports children living with developmental disabilities and their families, providing meaningful opportunities to grow, thrive and connect with their community.
Eligibility: Children under the age of 18 with a developmental disability
Delivery: Currently, the program is being offered virtually and/or by phone. This information will be updated once in-person programming resumes.
Fee: Free
Program dates: Offered during the school year: September – June
Partners: Developmental Services Ontario
Program description
Our team works with families to enhance the independence of children living with developmental disabilities. We offer individualized support and engaging group activities that foster children’s social and emotional growth. We also offer home visits, coaching and support groups led by parents with experience raising children with developmental disabilities.
This program offers two support services for parents of children with developmental disabilities: the Parent Outreach Program and Parent Shared Services. Please contact us for information on how to access these services.
Parent Outreach Program:
An individualized teaching program promoting independence for children living with developmental disabilities. Coaching is delivered by home visitors who are parents of children with developmental disabilities.
Parent Shared Services:
Parents can participate in support groups led by other parents with lived experience raising children with developmental disabilities. This program is typically offered during the school year, from September to June.
Supporting resources
Developmental Services Ontario (DSO) is the access point for adult developmental services funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) in Ontario. There are 9 DSO agencies located across the province; serving different counties and regions.
If you have a developmental disability, live in Ontario, and are 18 years old you must apply through DSO to see if you are eligible to receive adult ministry-funded supports available in your community.
Services for Adults with Developmental Disabilities
Our programs connect adults with developmental disabilities to financial services, affordable housing, medical care, recreational activities and life skills training.
WoodGreen offers free Pre-Apprentice and Trades Programs, catering to newcomers and those facing employment barriers to provide a pathway to high-demand trades. Participants undergo assessments for grade 12 Math and English and engage in Academic Upgrading to develop essential communication and numeracy skills for entry into skilled trades.
In partnership with George Brown College, this 15-week skills training program provides newcomers and jobseekers with an opportunity to start their skilled trades career in plumbing. Participants will have access to additional supports to assist them with their training throughout the program.
Personalized Career Accelerator (for Newcomers to Canada)
The Personalized Career Accelerator program (formerly known as Mentoring Pathways to Employment) helps skilled newcomers to succeed in a Canadian job search and connects them with a mentor with shared experiences who can support their journey.
Industrial Mechanic Millwright Pre-Apprenticeship Program
This free program equips students with skills related to the millwright trade, which involves installing, maintaining, diagnosing and repairing industrial machines. Delivered by George Brown College in partnership with WoodGreen, the program includes trade readiness, employment preparation and academic upgrading.
This VFX training program is designed to give Black youth a competitive edge as they launch careers in digital compositing. Over 23 weeks, participants gain the knowledge and experience necessary to find post-production work. Training includes a six-week paid internship.
A transitional housing program for men 55+ with a history of homelessness and mental health or addictions issues. We provide safe housing and wrap-around supports to help clients build new skills and recreate a sense of community.
In person
Men 55+ who have experienced mental health or substance use issues, street involvement, homelessness and unstable housing
Operated in partnership with Fife House, this site has 112 mixed units and offers supportive housing for Fife House clients living with HIV/AIDS and frail seniors receiving WoodGreen assisted living services. It also hosts an 11-unit transitional housing program for individuals living with HIV/AIDS and working toward permanent housing.
Our team delivers hot and frozen meals to seniors and adults living with disabilities. We also provide at-home security and wellness checks and help with accessing local services.
In person
Seniors 55+ and adults living with disabilities who are unable to prepare nutritious meals (as per Canada’s Food Guide)
WoodGreen’s registered social workers and staff offer free single session counselling to address issues such as anxiety, depression, anger management and relationship challenges, and discuss strategies for positive change.
We offer clinical and therapeutic counselling, case management and group support services to individuals experiencing mental health, substance use and other challenges. Longer-term services (up to two years) are available, depending on client needs.
In-person, virtual, on the phone
Age 16+ with mental health and/or addiction issues
Comprehensive Care and Integration Specialist (CCIS) Team
Our team of clinical social workers provide a comprehensive approach to care for clients with complex health and psychosocial needs. We work to fill the gaps in care by connecting clients to essential services, coordinating follow-up care, and providing case management and counselling.
