[KINGSTON, ONTARIO, February 13th, 2024]

Maltby Centre, a leading provider of autism services and the Lead Agency for children and youth mental health services in KFL&A, has experienced a significant system shift in provincial funding for autism programs. The funding for legacy autism programs concluded on September 30, 2023, marking the culmination of the provincial transition to a needs-based, fee-for-service model in autism. Unfortunately, this funding shift and reduced revenue are impacting our budget for 2024-2025.

Compounding this system shift, we anticipate an increase in our costs in 2024-2025 which exceed our provincial funding allocations and revenue. Our Board has been fully engaged throughout this process, and close consultation with OPSEU/SEFPO Local 460 has taken place to address the budgetary impacts.

Maltby Centre is now faced with tough decisions to manage our costs effectively. To ensure the sustainability of our services, cost reductions are necessary across both clinical and administrative staff. Regrettably, this will necessitate a reduction of 23.5 staff positions (19% of total staff) across our charity. We will continue to have approximately 100 qualified and dedicated staff throughout our mental health and autism services.

This is an incredibly difficult time for everyone at Maltby Centre. Our dedicated staff members are exceptional, professional, and deeply invested in the well-being of the children and families with whom they engage. Considering these combined challenges, we are actively providing support for our staff.

Although we anticipate that all our existing services will remain, there are likely to be changes in the way they are delivered. We will communicate these openly. In the meantime, Maltby Centre remains committed to providing high-quality critical assistance to children, youth and their families.

As we navigate these difficult circumstances, Maltby Centre appreciates the understanding and continued support of our community.

« During this challenging time, Maltby Centre remains committed to the well-being of our staff, children, and families, and will continue to work collaboratively with our partner agencies. Together, with the understanding and support of our community, we will navigate these challenges and continue providing vital services to those in need. »