KidsAbility hit with more layoffs, union says

The KidsAbility sign pictured at the company's Kitchener, Ont., location. (Alexandra Holyk/CTV News)

Staff members at KidsAbility have undergone another round of cuts, according to the local union representing employees.

A statement from the Ontario Public Service Employees Union (OPSEU) Local 258 said 21 frontline and critical staff received layoff notices earlier this month.

The impacted programs include Early Years, School Years, School Based Rehabilitation Services, Behaviour Support Services, Entry to School, and Specialized Services.

“Workers say this round of layoffs will have a serious impact not only on members, but on the children and families who rely on these programs,” the statement read.

In an email to CTV News, KidsAbility confirmed it issued layoff notices to some of its employees.

“These decisions were not made lightly and are a result of our efforts to responsibly align our operations with available resources and service needs,” a spokesperson said.

They also said staff who had their contracts terminated will stay on until May 10.

“We appreciate the contributions of those affected and recognize this is a difficult time for them, their colleagues and the organization.”

The notice comes after 37 positions were cut late last year when KidsAbility decided to pause its applied behaviour analysis (ABA) therapy services.

“At a time when demand for child treatment services continues to grow, cutting frontline roles will only put more pressure on families, push more children onto already lengthy wait lists, and worsen burnout and understaffing in the sector,” OPSEU Local 258 said it in its statement.

The union also said its members are taking part in collective bargaining with their employer.

“Our focus is on ensuring long-term stability of KidsAbility so we can continue providing essential services to children, youth and families across the communities we serve,” the spokesperson said. “We are working carefully to ensure that care and support continue during this transition. There is no anticipated disruption to existing programs or services.”