Parents of children with autism are slamming the Ontario government's decision to hire a private administrator for the province's autism program, calling it a 'make-work project' that wastes taxpayer money. The administrator, which has received $58 million in funding since 2024, has been criticized for high overhead costs and failing to deliver promised improvements to wait times and service quality.
Parents voice frustration
In a press conference at Queen's Park, several parents expressed anger over the lack of progress. 'This is a make-work project for a private company that has done nothing to help our children,' said Sarah Thompson, whose son has been on the waitlist for services for over three years. 'We need direct funding for therapy, not more bureaucracy.'
The Ontario government contracted the private administrator in 2024 to manage the autism program, aiming to reduce wait times and streamline services. However, parents report that wait times have actually increased, with some families waiting up to five years for assessments.
High overhead costs
According to documents obtained by the media, the private administrator has spent over $20 million on administrative costs, including salaries for executives and consultants. 'Only a fraction of the funding reaches actual therapy services,' said John Smith, a policy analyst at the Ontario Autism Coalition. 'It's a massive waste of public funds.'
The government defends the arrangement, stating that the administrator has improved coordination and accountability. 'We are seeing positive outcomes, including better tracking of services and reduced duplication,' said a spokesperson for the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services.
Calls for change
Parents and advocates are calling for the government to end the contract and redirect funds to direct therapy services. 'We need a system that puts children first, not corporate profits,' said Thompson. The opposition NDP has also criticized the program, promising to review the contract if elected.
The debate highlights ongoing challenges in Ontario's autism program, which has faced criticism for years over long wait times and inadequate funding. With over 50,000 children on the waitlist, families are desperate for effective solutions.
