Children's disABILITY Services

Family Supports for Children with Disabilities

What is Children's disABILITY Services?

This program, provided through Manitoba Department of Families, supports families who are raising a child (or children) with developmental and physical disabilities, to meet some of the additional needs they may have.

How does Children's disABILITY Services help families?

Children's disABILITY Services offers families a variety of resources and supports to assist them to care for their children at home in their own communities, where children grow and thrive.

Does my child qualify?

Children under the age of 18, who live in Manitoba with their birth, adoptive or extended families, are eligible. Eligible children must also have a medical diagnosis confirming one or more of the following conditions:

• intellectual disability
• developmental delay
• autism spectrum disorder
• lifelong physical disability with significant functional limitation in mobility
• high probability of developmental delay due to a pre-existing condition
  

How do I apply?

Some families are referred to Children's disABILITY Services by medical professionals, schools, and child care facilities. You may also apply to the program directly by completing the Referral and Intake Application form (PDF) and submitting it, along with diagnostic assessment or medical report, to the regional Children's disABILITY Services office in your region.

Please note: Written confirmation of the child's diagnosis must be included with all applications.

What happens next?

If your child qualifies for the program, a Children's disABILITY Services worker will connect with your family to look at your specific situation, and talk to you about your needs, goals and care concerns. The worker will provide you with information about supports that may be available through Children's disABILITY Services and other agencies, such as child care facilities, schools and volunteer organizations.

The worker can also help you arrange for the services you need and, as long as your child remains eligible for Children's disABILITY Services, a worker may remain involved until your child is 18, or you no longer need these services.

How do I learn more about Children’s disABILITY Services?

You can learn more at the following links or by contacting a Children’s disABILITY Services office in your community:

• Services and Supports
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Publications, Forms and Policies