Respite Care - Ontario

Published June 21, 2026

Caring for a child or adult on the autism spectrum is rewarding, but it is also constant. Respite care exists so that you can step back, rest, and look after yourself and the rest of your family — without worrying that your loved one isn't in good hands. This guide explains what respite is, how to pay for it in Ontario, where to find workers, and how to set things up so the arrangement actually works.

A Parent's Guide to Respite Care for Autistic Children and Adults in Ontario

Caring for a child or adult on the autism spectrum is rewarding, but it is also constant. Respite care exists so that you can step back, rest, and look after yourself and the rest of your family — without worrying that your loved one isn't in good hands. This guide explains what respite is, how to pay for it in Ontario, where to find workers, and how to set things up so the arrangement actually works.

What respite care is

Respite is temporary, short-term care that gives the primary caregiver a break. It can be a couple of hours so you can run errands or sleep, a regular weekly arrangement, an occasional weekend, or longer overnight stays. It can happen in your own home or out in the community, and you can use it on a routine basis or only when you need it.

The point isn't only to get tasks done. Caregivers carry a heavy load, and burnout is real. Taking a planned, guilt-free break is part of staying healthy enough to keep caring well over the long term.

Types of respite

How to pay for respite in Ontario

Ontario funds respite through a few different programs depending on your loved one's age and needs. Amounts and eligibility change, so always confirm the current details on the official pages linked below.

How to apply: For the under-18 programs below (SSAH, Enhanced Respite, and ACSD), you apply by contacting the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services (MCCSS) regional office nearest you — find yours at ontario.ca/page/regional-offices-ministry-children-community-and-social-services. For adults (18+), the Passport Program is arranged through Developmental Services Ontario (DSO).

If your child is under 18

If your loved one is 18 or older

A note on the Ontario Autism Program (OAP)

The OAP focuses on therapies and foundational family services rather than respite directly. Respite funding generally comes through SSAH (under 18) or Passport (18+), so it's common to use the OAP alongside one of those programs.

Where to find respite workers

Find your regional respite host agency (across Ontario)

Since RespiteServices.com closed, each region's host agency is the place to ask about respite in your community. These are the host agencies that were part of that network. Contacts and roles can change over time, so confirm before relying on them — and if your region isn't listed, contact your local MCCSS regional office (linked above).

What it typically costs

Hourly rates vary with the worker's training, the level of support needed, and whether you go through an agency. Families hiring a worker directly commonly report rates in the range of about $25 per hour, with agency rates often higher. If you have SSAH or Passport funding, it can be used toward these costs.

How to choose and vet a worker

Take your time here — the right fit matters more than filling the slot quickly.

  1. Experience (and openness). Past autism experience is a plus, but some families prefer to train a worker their own way. What matters most is willingness to learn your loved one's specific needs.

  2. Background and safety checks. Ask for a police/vulnerable-sector check, references, and any certifications (CPR, First Aid). Agencies typically handle this; if you hire directly, do it yourself.

  3. A trial visit. Have the worker spend supervised time with your family first. Watch how they interact with your child or adult and how everyone responds.

  4. Behaviour and communication. If your loved one has a behaviour support plan, make sure the worker understands their role in it. Go over how your loved one communicates, what soothes them, and what to avoid.

  5. The essentials in writing. Leave clear notes: routines, allergies, medications, sensory triggers, emergency contacts, and what to do in a crisis.

It's normal for it to take a few weeks to settle in — and it's also normal that not every worker is the right match. If it isn't working, it's okay to move on and find someone who fits.

Setting your worker up for success

Halton-area starting points

Verify the current details (official sources)

This guide is for general information for families and does not replace professional, financial, or legal advice. Program amounts and eligibility rules change — please confirm the current details with the official sources above.

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