Creativity Takes Courage*

Introduction: The Disability Tax Credit (DTC) is a valuable financial tool that provides tax relief for individuals with disabilities and their families. This non-refundable tax credit can significantly reduce the amount of income tax owed, easing financial strain . Additionally, qualifying for the DTC opens doors to other important financial aids, such as the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) and the Child Disability Benefit (CDB), making it a cornerstone of financial planning for people with disabilities in Canada. To maximize your benefits, it’s important to apply as soon as you believe you or your loved one may be eligible. Despite its importance, the DTC remains underutilized. Estimates suggest that only 40% to 50% of eligible Canadians are accessing this credit, often due to barriers such as the complexity of the application process or lack of awareness. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the step-by-step process of applying for the DTC, helping you navigate the application with confidence and clarity. Step-by-Step Guide: The first step in applying for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) is determining whether you or your loved one qualifies. The DTC is designed for individuals with severe and prolonged challenges in physical or mental functions. To be eligible, the following criteria must be met: Severe: The condition must significantly restrict an individual’s ability to perform basic activities of daily living, such as walking, speaking, hearing, or managing mental functions. This means the impairment must be substantial enough that it profoundly impacts daily life and requires significant support or adaptation. Prolonged: The condition must have lasted, or be expected to last, for at least 12 months continuously. This ensures that the DTC is reserved for individuals with long-term and persistent conditions, rather than temporary or short-term disabilities. In addition to these primary criteria, eligibility may also be considered if: Life-Sustaining Therapy: The individual requires life-sustaining therapy, such as regular treatments that are essential for survival. Cumulative Effects: The individual experiences cumulative effects from multiple conditions that are both severe and prolonged, making it challenging to manage daily life without substantial support. To confirm eligibility, consider whether the condition significantly affects the individual’s daily activities and if the challenges are expected to be long-lasting. If you are unsure about whether the condition meets these criteria, it may be helpful to consult with a medical professional who can provide detailed information and support. Complete the DTC Application Form (T2201): The application process for the DTC involves completing Form T2201, the Disability Tax Credit Certificate. This form has two main parts: Part A – Information about the Applicant: Basic personal information and details about the challenges faced by the individual applying. Part B – Medical Practitioner’s Assessment: This section must be completed by a qualified medical practitioner, such as a doctor, optometrist, audiologist, or psychologist, depending on the nature of the condition. Tips for Completing Form T2201: Be Thorough: Provide as much detail as possible about the challenges and how they impact daily life. This can strengthen your case for approval. Keep Records: Retain copies of all documents submitted, as well as any additional medical reports that might support your application. Medical Practitioner’s Role: The role of the medical practitioner in the DTC application process is crucial. They are responsible for certifying that the individual’s condition meets the criteria for the DTC. Submit the Application to the CRA: Once Form T2201 is completed and signed by both the applicant (or their representative) and the medical practitioner, it’s time to submit it to the CRA. How to Submit: By Mail: Send the completed form and any additional documentation to your local tax centre. The mailing addresses are listed on the CRA website. Online: If you’re registered for the CRA’s My Account service, you can upload the completed form directly through the online portal. Additional Documentation: Depending on the condition, you may need to submit additional medical reports or supporting documents. Ensure all paperwork is complete to avoid delays. Follow Up and Processing Time: After submission, the CRA will review the application. Processing times can vary, but it typically takes 8 to 12 weeks for the CRA to reach a decision. During peak tax season, processing times may be longer. What to Expect: Notification of Decision: The CRA will notify you of their decision by mail. If approved, the DTC can be applied retroactively for up to 10 years, providing significant tax relief. Further Information Requests: In some cases, the CRA may request additional information or clarification from the medical practitioner. Be prepared to follow up if necessary. Tips for Following Up: If you haven’t received a response within the expected time frame, contact the CRA for an update on the status of your application. If your application is denied, you can request a review or appeal the decision. Consider seeking professional advice if you choose to appeal. Conclusion: Applying for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) can seem complex, but the financial benefits it offers are well worth the effort. By qualifying for the DTC, you not only gain immediate tax relief but also unlock access to other valuable financial aids like the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP). To maximize your benefits, it’s important to apply as soon as you believe you or your loved one may be eligible. Stay tuned for the next post in this series, where we’ll dive into the details of applying for the Persons with Disabilities (PWD) benefits, offering another layer of support for individuals with disabilities in British Columbia.

As the holiday season draws upon us, have you ever wondered why and how some of the festive traditions we observe came to be? Take Christmas hampers, as an example. France’s William the Conqueror is credited for bringing hampers to England in the 11th Century. In fact, the word ‘hamper’ comes from the French word ‘hanapier’ - which means ‘a case for goblets’. As is the custom today, baskets were first given as a charitable offering to those in need with supplies lasting a single family for several weeks. ( lewisandcooper.co.uk ) Hundreds of years later, it’s the same spirit of giving and community building that’s behind Garth Homer’s hamper program explains coordinator Rebecca Koval, who supports Garth Homer clients. “They genuinely love giving back to the community, they love to be part of the community, they like seeing how it makes people happy.” Over 20 clients are behind the holiday hamper initiative which started over nine years ago and is a mainstay of the Society’s STARR program which is designed to meet the needs of higher-needs individuals who may display challenging behaviours due to several factors, including autism and anxieties. By working to fund, fill and deliver hampers, participants are supported to be more successful in their daily activities and learning. Koval says the tasks involved in creating the hampers are based on clients’ individual abilities. Some like to go shopping which builds independence in terms of selecting items and making a purchase. “We have one client who loves wrapping presents” chuckles Koval. “If you gave her a whole room of gifts she would wrap them in one day.” Generating the money needed to fill the hampers is a year-round endeavour that sees clients delivering newspapers as well as collecting and sorting items for recycling. “We usually spend $1,000 per family,” explains Koval, who this year reached out to Quadra Village Community Center to identify who in the community could use a little help around the holidays. Two families have been selected and asked what their needs and wants are. “It can range from winter coats and socks to movie tickets and board games that give recipients a chance to do something as a family,” says Koval. Hampers also contain all the fixings for a holiday dinner; be that turkey, ham or a vegetarian option along with vegetables and bread rolls. Taylor Burkinshaw has helped with the hampers for three years running and especially likes buying, wrapping and delivering the hampers. A highlight is also singing Christmas carols for families at delivery time. “Leaves and berries,” she exclaims when reminded by Koval about the songs performed. For her colleague Tessa Pastro, last year was her first time being involved with the program and says volunteering is what drives her to participate. When asked by Koval why volunteering is important to her Pastro immediately sums it up with one word, “[It makes me] happy!” Off to New Zealand with her family in mid-December, Pastro leaves knowing that her contributions to a hamper will make another family’s holiday extra special. Burkinshaw, Pastro and Koval are unanimous in selecting their favorite part of the hamper program: getting the chance to celebrate the season with hamper recipients, one that’s made sweeter with the sharing of hot chocolate. “[That experience] is so visual and in the moment,” shares Koval. “We’ve had years where people cry. It’s very beautiful.” She’s also quick to point out that it’s not just the families who benefit from the hamper program as it gives just as much to the Garth Homer clients. “They are the most authentic people I’ve ever met in my life,” she marvels. “They’re happy and just to grateful to be in a safe environment where they’re appreciated, they can give back and are respected.”

It was a rough patch with her teenage son that led Karen Jensen and her family to the Garth Homer Society. “It was very fortuitous that I chose Garth Homer for him 10 years ago,” says Jensen. Her son had been out of her care for a few years she explains, adding there were some significant and heartbreaking behavioural issues, during his formative years, that led to expulsion from high- school. Back in her care as a young adult, Jensen knew she had to act…not just for her son but for the entire family. After comparing programs in the Victoria area, she says it became “blindingly obvious” that Garth Homer was the right place for her son. “That was a good day when we signed on at Garth Homer,” Jensen adds. “With the support of the patient, caring and dedicated Garth Homer staff we were able to have my son progress on a much better pathway,” Jensen adds with an air of relief. “In the 10 years since he’s been a client of the Garth Homer Society, he’s made steady, noticeable progress which is remarked upon by friends and family who don’t see him everyday like his brother and I do.” It's no surprise that Jensen and her family are regular donors to the Society. Research into philanthropy shows donors are purpose driven individuals who want to be part of something meaningful. They give to organizations they trust because they want to make an impact. It was her son’s stepfather who made the family’s first significant five-figure donation to Garth Homer. “He could see the benefits my son was receiving and by extension the two of us,” explains Jensen. Beyond the benefits their family experiences through having their son in a fulfilling and varied day-program, Jensen says giving back helps the broader community as well. “Garth Homer means a lot to so many people in our community and when our loved ones do well there’s a ripple effect that we all feel”. Since his passing, Jensen has carried on her husband’s tradition of giving what they can, when they can. For her that entails volunteering time at the Society and being a member of the Garth Homer Foundation board, in addition to the yearly donation she makes. “For me this is a way of giving thanks for everything we have because things can always be worse,” explains Jensen while acknowledging that supporting a child with developmental disabilities can be extremely hard. “By supporting organizations [like the Garth Homer Society] I’m basically saying thank you to the universe.” Jensen’s also quick to point out the benefits of giving saying she uses the tax receipt to mitigate what’s owed at tax time and parlays any refunds into new donations. Not one to rest on her laurels in terms of supporting the Garth Homer Society, Jensen says she’s motivated by recognizing how lucky the community is to have the organization as a neighbour. “It is serendipitous that [my family] landed in this city many, many years ago, “she states with gratitude. “If we were living in many other centres in this country, we wouldn’t have access to a program that is so perfect, not just for my son, but for a lot of the clients there.” Asked how she knows Garth Homer Society is making a difference she says it’s simple, “If you go into the building, you see the looks on the faces, people are happy.” Founded in 1979, the Garth Homer Society provides meaningful community inclusion programs for people with diverse abilities. Its mission is to provide services and opportunities to help people with disabilities over the age of 19 make a life, a home and a place in the world where all belong. GHS has over 220 clients participating in 11 different community and employment programs within the Greater Victoria area. Four key program and service areas encompass community inclusion, services for people who are aging, employment services and residential services. Programs are as diverse as the community members served and include art and music, life and technology skills development, volunteering and employment programs, plus outdoor and community activities. Every client has an individualized plan, with the goal of providing a lifelong continuum of support to meet changing needs at every stage of life.

Anticipation is building for the Garth Homer Society's Paint The Halls artist event on December 5, 5pm - 8pm at the ArtWorks Studio and Gallery, 2-1950 Government St., Victoria BC. A recent piece written by longtime Black Press Journalist Christine van Reeuwyk , highlights the event and invites the community to attend. Read the full story on the Victoria News website.

Quadra Village Community Centre’s (QVCC) Community Programs Coordinator Charmaine Koenig worked at the Garth Homer Society for two years and says leaving her casual position was a hard decision to make, until she realized she could take a little bit of Garth Homer (so to speak) with her. “When some of the staff said they volunteered at QVCC, I took that as an opportunity to maintain a connection with a lot of Garth Homer clients,” she explains. Charmaine oversees the food distribution and community support programs offered by QVCC, many of which are supported by Garth Homer volunteers Monday through Friday. For example, Monday sees Garth Homer’s Discovery team delivering baked goods and watering plants, while someone from the STARR program picks up and recycles bottles. The OPTIONS team cleans toys for QVCC’s out of school care program on Fridays. These are just some of the contributions GHS volunteers make at QVCC. “They are helping out in so many different and amazing ways,” marvels Charmaine. “It’s really nice to have a team of people who are engaged and motivated to do this kind of work. [Our centre benefits from] that kind of energy.” Volunteers have even given themselves a nickname, ‘the Garth Homies’, and are known for always wanting to do — and provide — more. One teaches QVCC staff sign-language as part of their visit. “Our community is better because of not just who they are, but because of their knowledge and expertise,” adds Charmaine. Both Garth Homer Society and QVCC share similar visions and core values, making the partnership strong. Each strive for a world where everyone has the capacity, resources, support and opportunities to reach their potential.

Twenty-two-year-old Sarah Ksionzyk is preparing for her first ever solo art exhibition where she’ll sell some of her original work, something her parents Brenda and Dean never thought possible. “Sarah gets very attached to her art pieces,” explains Dean, who credits staff with the Garth Homer Society’s ArtWorks program for developing his daughter’s flexible thinking to the point where she’s not only willing to part with her work but is producing very different pieces having been exposed to different genres of art. “It’s huge for us and such a big leap,” adds Brenda, who explains that before being exposed to the ArtWorks program her daughter was prone to limiting her artistic talent to a very distinct style. The Ksionzyks came to Garth Homer four years ago, when Sarah was preparing to transition to adult services. Sarah, Dean and Brenda went to an information session that featured a number of community agencies, but it wasn’t until the Garth Homer Society’s presentation, that the family knew they’d found the perfect place for Sarah. “She’s had a passion for art for forever, and as soon as Geoff [Garth Homer’s CEO] started talking, Sarah’s ears perked up and she was excited too,” remembers Brenda. “All three of us looked at each other and said ‘oh my gosh, we need to know more about this,” For over 50 years, the Garth Homer Society has been guided by its mission to provide services and opportunities that enable people with disabilities to make a life, a home, and a place in the world. Today, it offers a range of programs centred on community inclusion, learning and employment, geriatrics and resident services. For the Ksionzyks, the defining characteristic of Garth Homer Society’s approach is the way they see Sarah. “When you have a child or an adult with autism or another developmental disability a lot of people don’t know what to do and they will often just talk to us instead of her,” remembers Brenda from the very first information session. “Geoff saw her dignity and respected her as a capable human.” Sarah is also enrolled in the Society’s Options program which nurtures her love of giving back through community volunteer experiences. She worked with a Parkinson’s group, something very near and dear to her heart, because of her grandfather’s experience. “Pop Pop is probably Sarah’s very favorite person in the whole world,” says Brenda. “He had Parkinson’s and passed away a few years ago, so [that opportunity] was super special to her.”  Dean agrees, adding, “They offer opportunities that are meaningful to the individual.” He’s also quick to add that it’s not just Sarah who has benefitted from a relationship with Garth Homer. “They did way more for us than anyone could have–you just feel wanted there.”

Fear of Missing Out - or FOMO- isn’t something only experienced by those who are growing up in the social media era. For one 90-year-old Garth Homer client, it’s what keeps her coming to Pathways four days a week. “She’s young at heart and wants to know what everyone is doing,” says Pathways coordinator Roslyn Wagstaff. “A lot of our clients, because they’ve not been weighed down by the burdens of the world’s responsibilities like paying bills and going to work, still see themselves as 18-year-olds. If you feel young, then you are young,” adds Wagstaff. Pathways typically supports anywhere between 30 to 33 clients with a median age of 65. For the most part, Pathways participants transition from other Garth Homer programs as they start to slow down and begin to retire from volunteer jobs – meaning some clients have been with the Garth Homer Society their entire adult lives. “Our programming is more relaxed and flexible so if people don’t want to go out because they’re tired that day they can just stay in – it’s not a big deal,” explains Wagstaff. At Pathways, clients enjoy an accessible garden, opportunities to relax, play games, work on puzzles and engage in iPad activities. Community activities are made possible by easy-access vehicles while cooking, crafts, and yoga are also offered in a wheelchair/mobility aid-friendly space. Over the course of the Garth Homer Society's history, its supports for aging adults have evolved into the Pathways program. As people live longer, programs like Pathways become increasingly important in helping older adults maintain their independence and quality of life. According to the Journal of Family Physicians Canada ( Aging that includes an intellectual and developmental disability | The College of Family Physicians of Canada (cfp.ca) ) , a developmental approach to caring for older adults should be holistic, as aging is a time of life when exploring meaning, and generating something worthwhile that lives on, becomes especially important. It’s no different for adults with developmental challenges who can be supported to engage in tasks that feed emotional wellbeing later in life, such as participating in a support group or engaging in activities the individual enjoys. It’s these kinds of activities physicians believe help soften suffering, bring peace, enhance resilience, and ease adjustment to various aging-related changes in functioning and living. One of the biggest challenges faced by the elderly Is loss of physical and cognitive independence; the onset of which can be earlier in people with developmental disabilities. This coupled with longer life expectancy among the disabled and deinstitutionalization can mean situations where parents and older siblings in their 80s or 90s are still the primary caregivers of their developmentally disabled family member. “Our clients do have more challenges as some have to transition from a home support situation to a group home where they can hopefully age in place,” sympathises Wagstaff, adding that moving is difficult, as is getting used to different caregivers, especially when they’ve previously been parents and older siblings. She takes having difficult conversations with families in stride, and stresses planning for a loved ones later years is a must. “You need to be thinking ahead – where are we going to be in five years from now?” Wagstaff explains. “If you wait too long it’s very hard as sometimes a decline can be rapid -within the space of six months.” Ensuring an elderly loved-one has the capacity to process why a move is necessary and having the time to get used to a new home makes coping with change easier she says. Families can also play important advocacy roles by doing research into to the long-term effects of their family member’s disabilities and being prepared. “We’re here to help as well and have resources we can share too,” she stresses. As important as planning ahead is living in the moment, Wagstaff observes. “Personally, one of the biggest gifts of working with our elderly population is frequently hearing from family and caregivers that our clients are happy to be at [Pathways] and don’t want to miss a day,” she remarks. For Wagstaff and the rest of the Pathways team, its all about what they can do to make sure clients have a great day. “They’re always a lot of fist bumps and side-hugs to go around which is the kind of positive client feedback you get every day.” The United Nations has adopted October 1 as the International Day of Older Persons ( International Day of Older Persons | United Nations ) to recognize, "the essential contribution the majority of older men and women can continue to make to the functioning of society."

Managing your finances can be challenging for anyone, but for individuals with disabilities and their families, it can be especially daunting. From covering daily living expenses to planning for the future, costs can add up quickly. Fortunately, there are several financial aids available in British Columbia designed to ease some of these burdens and provide much-needed support. In this blog series, we explore key financial aids that can make a significant difference in the lives of people with disabilities. We’ll cover the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), Persons with Disabilities (PWD) benefits, the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP), and the services provided by Community Living BC (CLBC). Each support offers unique benefits, and understanding how to access them can help provide financial security and peace of mind. Whether you’re just starting to explore these options or are looking for detailed application guidance, this series provides the information you need to navigate these important resources. Key Financial Supports: Disability Tax Credit (DTC): The Disability Tax Credit (DTC) is a critical financial aid for and individuals with disabilities their families offered by the federal government. This non-refundable tax credit reduces the amount of income tax owed, providing significant tax relief. The DTC also serves as a gateway to other important programs, such as the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) and the Child Disability Benefit (CDB) . However, despite its importance, the DTC is underutilized. In the 2019 tax year, approximately 1.2 million Canadians claimed the DTC, but estimates suggest that only 40% to 50% of eligible Canadians are accessing this credit. Barriers such as the complexity of the application process may contribute to this lower uptake. For more details, you can refer to the Canada Revenue Agency’s page on the Disability Tax Credit. To qualify a person must have a severe and prolonged impairment in physical or mental functions, as certified by a medical practitioner. Once approved, the DTC can also be transferred to a supporting family member if the person with the disability does not need the full credit. Persons with Disabilities (PWD) Benefits : For adults with disabilities in British Columbia, the Persons with Disabilities (PWD) benefits program offers essential financial support to help cover daily living costs . This includes a monthly payment to assist with expenses like housing, food, and clothing. As of 2021, over 120,000 British Columbians were receiving PWD benefits , reflecting a steady increase in the number of people accessing this support. The program also offers supplementary benefits , such as medical coverage, dental and optical services, and transportation supplements. These benefits are designed to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for necessary services and improve the overall quality of life for recipients. Eligibility for PWD benefits requires meeting specific criteria related to age, residency, and medical diagnosis. Once approved, the support can be a lifeline for those who may have limited income due to their disability. More information , including application forms, can be found on the BC Government’s website. Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP): The Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) is a powerful tool for long-term financial security for individuals with disabilities. It is a savings plan specifically designed to provide future financial stability, with contributions matched by government grants and bonds. Despite its benefits, the RDSP is underutilized. As of 2020, approximately 204,000 RDSP accounts had been opened across Canada, representing only a fraction of the estimated 1.8 million Canadians eligible for the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), which is required to open an RDSP. Many eligible families do not take advantage of this program, often due to a lack of awareness or the perceived complexity of the process. The RDSP is particularly beneficial because the funds within the plan grow tax-free until withdrawal. Government contributions can be substantial, with the Canada Disability Savings Grant (CDSG) matching contributions up to 300%, and the Canada Disability Savings Bond (CDSB) providing additional funds for low-income families. More details on the RDSP and how to apply are available on the Government of Canada’s RDSP page . Community Living BC (CLBC) Services : Community Living BC (CLBC) is a provincial organization that provides vital support services to adults with developmental disabilities in British Columbia. CLBC offers a range of services , including funding for adult day programs, supported employment, residential services, and community inclusion activities. CLBC services are tailored to the individual needs of the person with a disability, ensuring they receive the right support to live as independently and fully as possible. It’s important to start the application process as early as possible, ideally within six months of the applicant turning 19, to avoid gaps in funding and support. Funding is arranged through service agreements with local providers, and eligibility is determined through an intake and assessment process. For families transitioning from high school to adult services, CLBC plays a crucial role in ensuring that the necessary supports are in place. You can learn more and access the application process on the CLBC website . Conclusion: These financial aids and supports are invaluable resources for individuals with disabilities and their families in British Columbia. By understanding and accessing the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), Persons with Disabilities (PWD) benefits, the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP), and Community Living BC (CLBC) services, you can help alleviate financial pressures and plan for a more secure future.

Light and colour. It’s what greets you at the door when you visit Garth Homer Society’s ArtWorks studio space in downtown Victoria and what shines through the myriad of pieces created by one of the program’s first participants. Tanya Steinhausen started as a volunteer in 1996 and didn’t know she had any artistic talent until ArtWorks’ staff pointed out her knack for colour and design. Today she works with a variety of media – from permanent markers to paint, yarn and fabric. “It allows me to express different ways of making things and makes me happy that I’m using my imagination,” says Tanya. She’s supported in her artistic journey by Garth Homer vocational counsellor Karen Godoy – an artist herself. “It’s my mission to help her to turn her truth and ideas into art,” says Godoy. “Tanya brings her ideas and together we figure out ways to get around barriers in turning her vision into art.” Often that means considering material or process adaptations. It’s an approach that has successfully led to Tanya’s solo three-month exhibition, through October 21st at the Greater Victoria Public Library Emily Carr branch in Saanich. As part of the Victoria Arts Council’s community satellite program’s approach, artists curate their own showcases and choose their preferred venue. For Tanya that meant selecting a location that she could independently travel to, via transit, and one that was close to her part-time job so that colleagues and friends were able to visit the exhibition. Laura Dutton, Victoria Arts Council’s director of community programs, says featuring Tanya’s artistic talent was an easy decision to make, “It really stood out to me as something new and special - and I see a lot of work”.  “She is doing such interesting things with her textile work,” explains Dutton. “I think it’s whimsical, fun and interesting, and that’s what stuck out to me originally,” she adds while mentioning the detail and colour work in Tanya’s drawings are standout features as well. Godoy agrees. “As an artist Tanya is pure happiness. She is vibrant, super high energy and we see it all in her work. She’s really positive.” For more information about Tanya’s exhibition visit : GVPL Emily Carr – VICTORIA ARTS COUNCIL ( vicartscouncil.ca )