Advocacy, Inclusion, and Human Rights
Coalition of Persons with Disabilities Newfoundland and Labrador (CODNL)
COD NL is a provincial, cross-disability organization that educates and advises community stakeholders interested in advancing the status of persons with disabilities. The Coalition systemically advocates for an inclusive and equitable society for all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians living with disabilities.
EmpowerNL provides a variety of programs and services in an effort to promote inclusion for individuals with disabilities in NL.
Human Rights Commission of Newfoundland and Labrador
The Newfoundland and Labrador Human Rights Commission is a free service that is available to people in Newfoundland and Labrador. Their office does two main things: Protecting human rights and promoting human rights. If you feel you have been discriminated against or harassed, fill out an online form on their website. They promote human rights in the province by: providing human rights information to people, businesses and community organizations; giving presentations and human rights training; speaking out about issues within our mandate; and working with community partners.
The Inclusion Advisory Committee provides information and advice to Council on matters of accessibility and inclusion as they relate to City programs, policies and services. Matters referred to the committee by other committees of Council, or as initiated by the Advisory Committee itself.
Inclusion Canada Newfoundland and Labrador provides and supports a variety of initiatives that can benefit people with intellectual disabilities.
We are working with Inclusion International to develop international guidelines so organisations can make their work inclusive.
People First of Newfoundland and Labrador
People First of Newfoundland & Labrador (PFNL) is a provincial organization of people who have been labeled with an intellectual disability. We want to improve the quality of life of people who have been labeled with an intellectual disability by advocating for equality and inclusion. We want to have a voice in the community and be recognized as full citizens.
The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms
The Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms protects a number of rights and freedoms, including freedom of expression and the right to equality. It forms part of our Constitution – the highest law in all of Canada – and is one of our country’s greatest accomplishments.
UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights
The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) is a milestone document in the history of human rights. Drafted by representatives with different legal and cultural backgrounds from all regions of the world, the Declaration was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in Paris on 10 December 1948 (General Assembly resolution 217 A) as a common standard of achievements for all peoples and all nations. It sets out, for the first time, fundamental human rights to be universally protected and it has been translated into over 500 languages. The UDHR is widely recognized as having inspired, and paved the way for, the adoption of more than seventy human rights treaties, applied today on a permanent basis at global and regional levels (all containing references to it in their preambles).
Down Syndrome Organizations
Canadian Down Syndrome Society (CDSS)
CDSS is the national source of expertise promoting the abilities and contributions of people with Down syndrome. We provide reliable information and connections to people with Down syndrome and those who support them, while positively shaping the social and policy contexts in which they live.
Our network includes people with Down syndrome and other disabilities, friends and family members, professionals and organisations from around the world. The people in our network tell us about life for people with Down syndrome in different parts of the world. We gather evidence and examples of good practice to understand what needs to change. Then, together we speak up for the human rights of all people with Down syndrome around the world. We have a stronger voice when we work together.
Down Syndrome Resource Foundation
Our mission is to support people living with Down syndrome and their families with individualized and leading-edge educational programs, health services, information resources, and rich social connections so each person can flourish in their own right.
Global Down syndrome Foundation
The Global Down Syndrome Foundation is a public non-profit 501(c)(3) dedicated to significantly improving the lives of people with Down syndrome through Research, Medical care, Education and Advocacy. Formally established in 2009, the Foundation’s primary focus is to support the Linda Crnic Institute for Down Syndrome, the first academic home in the United States committed solely to research and medical care for people with Down syndrome. Since Down syndrome is the least-funded genetic condition in the United States, fundraising and government advocacy to correct the alarming disparity of national funding for people with Down syndrome is a major goal.
National Down syndrome Congress
The National Down Syndrome Congress (NDSC) is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to an improved world for individuals with Down syndrome. Founded in 1973, we are the leading national resource of support and information about Down syndrome, from the moment of diagnosis, whether prenatal or at birth, through adulthood. We provide support and resources from infancy to adulthood. The NDSC is an organization led by individuals with and without Down syndrome, working together for a better future for all.
Education
The CDSS Education Hub is filled with shareable, printable resources and quick guides that include practical tips and suggestions to help support students as they learn together in the school community. Remember that education is jurisdiction-specific, and is unique within each province and territory. CDSS supports learning together.
Department of Education, Handbook for Parents of Children with Exceptionalities
This handbook was created by the Newfoundland and Labrador Department of Education to explain the educational services available to meet the needs of a student with an exceptionality. It will provide information to help prepare parents and students for meetings so that they can make informed decisions and successful transitions.
Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador Blundon Centre Accessibility Services
The Blundon Centre at Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador provides supportive services to students with disabilities attending Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Learning Disabilities Association of Newfoundland and Labrador
The Learning Disabilities Association of Newfoundland and Labrador (LDANL) acts as a provincial network for individuals with learning disabilities and those who support them. LDANL offers programs to build literacy and mathematical skills, provides advocacy and offers individual and family support. Through public awareness activities, workshops, media, and by working with our partners in the community, LDANL strives to share an increased level of understanding of Learning Disabilities.
Employment
Avalon Employment Incorporated
Avalon Employment has been securing paid, meaningful employment in St. John’s and surrounding areas since 1992. As a not for profit organization that offers services for persons with barriers to employment due to developmental disabilities, we not only serve the individuals that seek our services, but we also serve the business community.
Ready for your next steps in your employment journey? The Employment Planning Hub is full of employment resources for people with Down syndrome and was designed to be used by self-advocates along with their family supports and their employment service providers who can help them develop their personal career portfolios and achieve their employment goals.
Office of Employment Equity for Persons with Disabilities
The Office operates a number of employment programs and career development services designed to assist persons with disabilities attain employment in provincial government departments.
Government of Newfoundland and Labrador Supported Employment Program
The Supported Employment program is here to help people with developmental disabilities (both adults and high school students) find jobs. Agencies provide individualized support to help you do your job well and become more independent at work.
The mission of The Vera Perlin Society is to secure and/or provide quality service and support for all individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families in St. John’s and surrounding areas, enabling them to participate in all areas of community living. We all must accomplish this by: Utilizing motivated employees; Maximizing sponsor, volunteer and community support; and Having a strong positive influence on government social policy.
Vision Employment Plus Incorporated
Our mandate is to provide employment related services and support to adults and High School students with intellectual disabilities facing barriers to employment. We provide Career Exploration, Job Search, Interview Preparation, Resume Writing, Job Coach Support, Job Placement Monitoring and Support, Small Business Development, and Interagency Referrals.
Financial
Canada Pension Plan Disability Benefits
The Canada Pension Plan (CPP) disability benefit is a monthly payment that you could receive if you are unable to work because of a disability.
City of St. John’s Adult Program Subsidy Application
We believe all citizens have the right to participate in the recreational programs and services of their choice. Leisure time is an important and integral part of the quality of life for all people. The Adult Program Subsidy is for St. John’s residents who are over 18 years of age.
City of St. John’s Financial Support for Children’s Programs Application
The Children’s Program Subsidy is for St. John’s residents who are under 18 years of age.
Disability Tax Credit Certificate
The disability tax credit (DTC) is a non-refundable tax credit that helps people with disabilities, or their supporting family member, reduce the amount of income tax they may have to pay.
Programs Funded through the NL Department of Health and Community Services
This page lists available programs that may be accessed by Persons with Disabilities who meet program eligibility criteria. These programs are funded through the Department of Health and Community Services
The REAL Program provides opportunities for children and youth facing financial barriers to participate in recreation, music, dance, art, sports, leadership, and learning programs
Registered Disability Savings Plan
A registered disability savings plan (RDSP) is a savings plan intended to help an individual who is approved to receive the disability tax credit (DTC) to save for their long-term financial security.
Health, Mental Health, and Wellbeing
The Adult ADHD Centre is dedicated to the assessment and management of adults with ADHD. Over 12,000 adult patients have been assessed and treated at the ADHD Centre making it one of the preeminent Adult ADHD Centres in Canada.
Autism Society of Newfoundland and Labrador
We are part of people’s autism journey; when goals are reached we cheer with families, when challenges arise we listen and work together for a solution. We provide connection, support and fun for Autistics, those who love them, and those who work with them.
Canadian Centre for ADHD Awareness
CADDAC is a national charity providing leadership in awareness, education, and advocacy for ADHD across Canada. CADDAC is committed to increasing the understanding of ADHD. Through generous donations, CADDAC’s programs support parents and individuals affected by ADHD. Key programs and initiatives include CADDAC’s Executive Functioning program, group coaching programs, resource navigator program, educational events, awareness initiatives and advocacy initiatives.
CDSS Mental Health and Wellness Hub
People with Down syndrome and their caregivers may have an increased risk of experiencing mental health issues including anxiety, depression, and more. The CDSS has created these resources to help learn about, recognize and help loved ones deal with mental health issues.
College of Audiologists and Speech Language Pathologists, NL
The College of Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists Newfoundland and Labrador (CASLP-NL) is part of the Newfoundland and Labrador Council of Health Professionals (NLCHP). CASLP-NL is the regulatory body for Audiologists and Speech-Language Pathologists in Newfoundland and Labrador. Speech-Language Pathologists and Audiologists must be registered with NLCHP to practice in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador
Integrated Occupational Health Services
Integrated Occupational Health Services (IOHS) is a private assessment and rehabilitation centre, and one of Newfoundland and Labrador’s longest serving occupational health firms. In St. John’s, our fully equipped, spacious facility allows us to perform a variety of clinic-based work-simulated assessments and treatment services. Assessments can also be performed at the work site, in the home or in a school environment by our consultants in St. John’s, Gander and Corner Brook. Please contact us by phone at 709-722-9675 or email us for more information or to make an appointment.
Janeway Hospital Service Directory
This is a list of phone numbers for the various units and services at the Janeway
The Down syndrome Medical Interest Group
This site provides essential information for healthcare professionals on ‘best practice’ medical care for people with Down syndrome in the UK and Ireland. It has been produced by the UK Down Syndrome Medical Interest Group (DSMIG), a network of doctors whose aim is to ensure equitable provision of medical care for all people with Down syndrome in the UK and Republic of Ireland.
New Canadians and Immigration
The Association for New Canadians (ANC) is a non-profit, community-based organization delivering settlement and integration services to immigrants and refugees in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Are you or a loved one with Down syndrome looking to come to Canada? The CDSS has compiled some common questions about immigration for an individual with Down syndrome.
New and Expectant Parents
** If you are a new or expectant parent to a child with Down syndrome, please reach out via email to nldssoffice@gmail.com to receive an NLDSS Baby Basket and join our Membership **
CDSS 21 Welcomes Virtual Magazine
21 Welcomes is a collection of real stories from parents, siblings, grandparents, self-advocates, and others who love someone with Down syndrome. Inside these pages, Canadian Down syndrome community members share their honest perspectives on welcoming a baby with Down syndrome and their journey as they joined this new community.
CDSS Information about Down syndrome for Expectant Parents and Healthcare Professionals
The Canadian Down Syndrome Society has developed this resource for women who are considering having prenatal screening or they have recently learned of the possibility of their child having Down syndrome and are seeking more information about Down syndrome.
The resources above are for women who are considering prenatal screening or have recently learned of the possibility of their child having Down syndrome and are seeking more information. These links can be useful for expectant parents and for medical professionals who are consulting with families who are welcoming a baby who has Down syndrome.
CDSS Resources for Parents of a New Baby with Down syndrome
The above resources will help to provide you with honest parent perspectives, encouragement, and valuable information during the early days and years of welcoming a baby with Down syndrome.
Dear Future Mom – Youtube Video
A heartwarming video message from 15 people with Down syndrome to a future mom.
La Leche League Canada (LLLC) is a registered Canadian charity dedicated to providing peer-to-peer breastfeeding support for expectant parents, new families, and beyond. Our volunteer Leaders—parents just like you who have nursed their own children—are trained and accredited to offer compassionate, evidence-based breastfeeding information at no cost.
Down syndrome pregnancy – Free online books and articles for new or expecting parents
Our books offer support to expectant parents who are preparing for the birth of a baby with Down syndrome/Trisomy 21. All of our materials offer compassionate, practical, and up-to-date information and have been reviewed by leading medical and Down syndrome experts.
Understanding Down syndrome: First year – Youtube Video
What can you expect having a baby with Down syndrome? Learn about common co-occurring conditions that go along with Down syndrome and the medical playbook to ensure those conditions are managed. Brian Skotko, M.D, M.P.P., Medical Geneticist and Emma Campbell Endowed Chair on Down Syndrome at Mass General Hospital for Children, explains what parents can expect during the first year of raising a child with Down syndrome, including information on breastfeeding, necessary testing, and more.
Recreation
The Access 2 Card is for people of all ages and types of permanent disabilities who require the assistance of a support person. When a cardholder presents the Access 2 Card at a participating movie theatre or selected attraction across Canada, the support person is then given one free or discounted admission. The person with the disability pays the regular admission price.
City of St. John’s Attendant Pass
An Attendant Pass enables an attendant or support worker to accompany an individual requiring support to activities and/or events free or at a discounted rate determined by the accepting venues
City of St. John’s Inclusive Recreation Services
The City of St. John’s is committed to providing an accessible, inclusive, healthy and safe community for everyone. As we work towards this goal, we will continue to identify, remove and prevent barriers to accessing programs and services.
Find out more about: How to apply for recreation support services, our free adaptive equipment lending program, Inclusive recreation opportunities, the benefits of applying for an attendant pass, and Financial support to participate in programs.
Our vision is to establish and sustain L’Arche homes in the St. John’s region where adults with and without intellectual disabilities live together forming trusting relationships. L’Arche Avalon is committed to supporting people with intellectual disabilities to live fulfilling lives as active and engaged members of their communities.
Our vision is for a community where all people with disabilities live full, healthy and active lives. Our mission is to engage, inspire, and maximize opportunities for people with disabilities of all ages by providing meaningful programs and services. We are a charitable organization that has operated in this province since 1937. Since then we have tirelessly dedicated ourselves to our Vision for our community. Approximately 100,000 people of all ages in our province live with disabilities such as physical, sensory, cognitive or other disabilities which present barriers to full participation in society. It is our objective to tear down these barriers and build an accessible and inclusive Newfoundland and Labrador.
Transportation
Accessible Vehicle Funding Application
Accessible Vehicle Funding was established to reduce costs associated with disability and provide an accessible transportation option to individuals and families throughout Newfoundland and Labrador. The program supports individuals or families to adapt personal vehicles for accessibility. This could include installation of hand controls or modifying vans to be equipped with lifts and ramps.
Guidelines for Blue Zone Permit Holders
The above link is a pdf printable version of guidelines for those who have a Blue Zone parking permit.
Blue Zone Accessible Parking Permits
Accessible parking permit holders can park in zones marked with a blue international wheelchair logo. You may request either a temporary (valid for six months) or permanent (valid for five years) Accessible Parking Permit.
GoBus Accessible Public Transit
GoBus Accessible Transit is the St. John’s area para-transit system. It operates within the municipalities of St. Johns and Mount Pearl only. The GoBus mandate is to provide persons with disabilities and those who are unable to access conventional transit, equal access to a transportation system so as to enhance their participation in all aspects of community life. The goal is to ensure that accessible, affordable transportation is provided in a dignified and respectful manner.
