Time won’t heal wounds of autism

Re Wynne pledges $810M for autism programs, April 12

Families across Ontario maintain their heads up and common courtesy prevails. Thank you to our current government leaders for the pledge of $810 million to eliminate the wait-lists for vital funds for those affected with autism.

A minimum ongoing wait of another four years to hopefully receive Passport Funds may be the tip of the “exhaustion iceberg” for many who have already waited silently in the wings for years. Can they hang on by a thread? Will dropoffs at government office doors trickle in, one by one for those with complex needs that are not being met currently?

If only the infusion of funding could be delivered promptly, with fairness, so families can breathe easier, plan for the future, and even begin to recognize, once again, the scent of blooming flowers in a garden. Otherwise, four years of further waiting is putrid.

Lillian Wagman, Toronto

Families caring for children with autism and other developmental disabilities are celebrating this announcement, and looking forward to immediate action — not in three years.

However, there are dark clouds looming over the legislature because Premier Kathleen Wynne’s pledge may not be honoured if she loses in a coming election. Therefore, families need assurances that the lifesaver being thrown at them by the Liberals will not be yanked back by an NDP or Conservative government.

Families need to hear Andrea Horwath and Tim Hudak say, clearly, that they intend to honour Wynne’s pledge to help families stay afloat.

Salvatore (Sal) Amenta, Stouffville