Download a printable version of this petition here.
TO THE LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF ONTARIO:
WHEREAS children and youth across Ontario experience mental health and addiction issues that impact their lives and the lives of those around them;
WHEREAS according to the Children’s Mental Health Organization (CMHO), children and youth in Ontario have to wait up to 2.5 years after being diagnosed as having a need for mental health services before receiving those services;
WHEREAS prioritizing child and youth mental health and addiction services is the right and fiscally responsible thing to do;
WHEREAS early interventions are more effective in addressing health issues, and guaranteeing access to mental health and addiction services within 30 days will provide children and youth the support they need in a timely manner and will enable them to grow and to live their lives to the fullest.
THEREFORE we, the undersigned, petition the Legislative Assembly of Ontario as follows:
Immediately pass Bill 53, the Right to Timely Mental Health and Addiction Care for Children and Youth Act, 2022.