Turning 18: Easy Read
This page uses short sentences and simple words. It tells you what happens when you turn 18.
Things change when you turn 18.
Help for children stops when you are 18.
Our adult programs start when you are 19.
Help for adults does not start on its own.
You have to ask for it.
This page tells you how to ask.
When should I start?
Start when you are 16.
You do not have to wait until you are 18 or 19.
Call us when you are 16. Our number is 519-836-9641.
It can take a long time to get adult help. Sometimes it takes more than 1 year.
If you start when you are 16, you can pick from more programs.
Are you 18 or older already? That is okay. You can still start now.
Are you in Youth Connect now?
Youth Connect is our program for children and teens. It is for ages 6 to 18.
You can stay in Youth Connect until you are 18.
Our adult programs start when you are 19.
Call us when you are 16. Our number is 519-836-9641.
We will help you move to an adult program.
We do not want your help to stop.
Step 1: Sign up with DSO
DSO is short for Developmental Services Ontario.
You must sign up with DSO before you can get adult help.
DSO is the first place to go.
DSO will check if you can get adult help.
DSO will give you forms to fill in.
The forms can be hard. We can help you fill them in.
Call us at 519-836-9641. We will help you.
Step 2: Ask DSO about money
There is money to help adults. It is called Passport money.
Passport money can pay for a person to go out with you.
It can pay for classes and clubs.
It can also pay for respite. Respite means a short break.
Say this to DSO: "I want to know about Passport money."
We can help you understand it too. Call us at 519-836-9641.
Step 3: Join an adult program
Hopewell has 3 programs for adults. They are for people 18 and older.
Hopewell Connect. You go out in your community. You try new things. You meet other people.
Ooster House. You stay in a friendly home for a few nights. Then you go home. Your family gets a rest.
Supportive Living. You have your own bedroom in a Hopewell house. Staff help you day and night.
Sometimes you wait until there is room for you.
Call us at 519-836-9641. We will help you plan.
Who can help me?
We can help you. You are not on your own.
We will help you change from youth help to adult help.
You do not have to move house.
Call 519-836-9641.
Or email hr@hopewellsupport.ca.
Words on this page
DSO means Developmental Services Ontario. They decide who can get adult help in Ontario.
Passport money is money to help adults do things in the community.
Respite means a short break. You stay somewhere safe. Your family rests.
Is something wrong?
You can tell us if something is wrong.
You will not get in trouble.
Do you need this page in another way?
We can read this page to you on the phone.
We can send you a paper copy with big letters.
We can give it to you in another language.
It is free. Just ask us.
Call 519-836-9641.