Resource GuideFunding & Accessibility Services You Need to Know About!
AutismBC
For Caregivers, Autistic Adults
Health
“The BC Family Residence Program provides accommodation assistance to enable families to stay together when their child requires medical care at BC Children’s Hospital or Sunny Hill Health Centre for Children.” (Government of BC, n.d.)
Sleep Products | Non-Profit Housing Program | BC Non-Profit Housing Association | BCNPHA
BCNPHA has initiated a partnership with a key Canadian manufacturer of quality beds and mattresses whereby BCNPHA members will be able to products at exclusive preferential prices.
Funding Program – www.mattressonline.ca – Mattressonline can help low-income individuals/Families, sick or disabled people, and also low-income seniors to work through the process for funding options with Ceridian Cares Canada.
Ceridian Cares | Evaluation Criteria – grants program for Canadians who qualify to cover the cost of Clothing & Footwear, Food & Basic Household Needs, Medical Devices & Therapies, Personal Development & Recreation.
Provincial Health Services Authority – Provincial Language Services – “Provincial Language Services supports organizations providing services to their linguistically and culturally diverse clients, including immigrants, refugees, official minority language speakers and members of the Deaf, Deaf-Blind, and Hard of Hearing community through addressing language and communication access issues and barriers.” (Provincial Health Services Authority, 2022)
Northern Health Virtual Clinic
The Northern Health Virtual Primary and Community Care Clinic provides services by phone or through a video call. The COVID-19 Online Clinic name has changed, and is now the Northern Health Virtual Primary and Community Care Clinic.
Cops for Kids is a charitable foundation that is committed to assisting children that have suffered a medical, physical or traumatic crisis in their young lives. We tirelessly work to raise funds to continue our ongoing support to the children in the communities that we serve. (Cops for Kids, 2022)
“Aims to enhance the lives of children living with physical, mental, social, and behavioural challenges in BC communities. (CKNW Kids’ Fund, 2021)
Fair PharmaCare helps B.C. families pay for eligible prescription drugs, dispensing fees and some medical supplies. Fair PharmaCare is based on income: the less a family earns, the more help they get. (Government of BC, n.d.)
First Nations Health Authority Benefits
“First Nations Health Benefits Program provides status First Nations people living in BC with a comprehensive and community-driven health benefits plan.” (First Nations Health Authority, 2022)
“The Healthy Kids Program provides coverage for basic dental treatment, optical care, and hearing assistance to children in low-income families that are not receiving income, disability, or hardship assistance.” (Government of BC, n.d.)
“Providing free travel and accommodations for Canadians in financial need who must access medical care far from home.” (Hope Air, 2022)
Travel Assistance Program (TAP)
The Travel Assistance Program (TAP) helps alleviate some of the transportation costs for eligible B.C. residents who must travel within the province for non-emergency medical specialist services not available in their own community. (Government of BC, n.d.)
Variety The Children’s Charity (Private Autism Assessment Grant Applications are temporarily closed – Apr 2023)
“Provides direct care for children with funding for medical care and services, mobility and communication equipment, therapies (including equine and music), autism assessments, psychoeducational assessments and education.” (Variety The Children’s Charity, 2022).
Autism Assessment Grant (Temporarily closed)
Tuition & Tutoring – Variety BC
Specialized Therapies – Variety BC
Adaptive & Mobility Equipment – Variety BC
CAYA BC Communication Assistance for Youth and Adults is a province-wide service program that supports adults aged 19 years and older who require an augmentative/alternative communication (AAC) system.
Canada Dental Benefit The interim Canada Dental Benefit is intended to help lower dental costs for eligible families earning less than $90,000 per year. Parents and guardians can apply if the child receiving dental care is under 12 years old and does not have access to a private dental insurance plan, (Government of Canada, 2023).
Indigenous
“Jordan’s Principle makes sure all First Nations children living in Canada can access the products, services and supports they need, when they need them. Funding can help with a wide range of health, social and educational needs, including the unique needs that First Nations Two-Spirit and LGBTQQIA children and youth and those with disabilities may have.” (Government of Canada, 2022)
“The Inuit Child First Initiative ensures Inuit children have access to the essential government-funded health, social and educational products, services and supports they need, when they need them.” (Government of Canada, 2022)
Indigneous Disability Canada’s Support for Indigenous Student Learning Program (SISLP)
“Indigenous Disability Canada’s Support for Indigenous Student Learning Program (SISLP) is a time-limited project for Indigenous students across Canada who have limited financial resources, including those students living with disabilities. The SISLP is accepting applications from students of any age enrolled in a Formal educational institution (either online, remote, or through on-site learning) to be considered to receive a laptop and other technology / equipment supports necessary to assist with their continued education and success. Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis until March 15th, 2023. Applications must be received by BCANDS no later than March 15th, 2023 to be consideration.” (BCANDS, 2022)
First Nations Health Authority Benefits
“First Nations Health Benefits Program provides status First Nations people living in BC with a comprehensive and community-driven health benefits plan.” (First Nations Health Authority, 2022)
Unique Get Together Society (Vancouver & Chilliwack)
Indigenous focussed, special needs programs and therapies, respite care program, social programs and camps.
“MNBC’s mandate is to develop and enhance opportunities for Métis communities by implementing culturally relevant social and economic programs and services.” (Metis Nation BC, 2022)
Wellbeing program – Métis Nation British Columbia (mnbc.ca)
- Through the Miyoopimatishihk (Wellbeing) Program, families can apply for financial support to assist in the cost of a wide range of services, programs and products, including but not limited to: respite care, speech therapy, assessments, specialized equipment, mental health supports
Community Accessibility
“Easter Seals Canada offers the Access 2 Card for people of all ages and types of permanent disabilities who require the assistance of a support person at hundreds of participating entertainment, cultural and recreational venues across Canada.” (Easter Seals Canada, 2022)
“Ensuring all BC children, regardless of socioeconomic status, can participate in organized sport by providing families with financial assistance.” (Athletics For Kids, 2019)
“Low-income seniors and Persons with Disabilities (PWD) have access to the BC Bus Pass Program. The pass is valid in communities served by BC Transit or Translink.” (Government of BC, n.d.)
BC Ferries Accessible Fare Identification (AFI) Card
“Discounted fares are available for residents of British Columbia who have a permanent disability. To receive the discounted fares, you must apply for a BC Ferries’ Accessible Fare Identification Card and present your card to the Ticket Agent when you arrive at the terminal.” (BC Ferries, 2020)
Deal Hack – Canadian Persons with Disabilities (PWD) Discount Guide – The Ultimate List
Easter Seals Disability Travel Card
“For people of all types of permanent disabilities who require the assistance of a support person when travelling with VIA Rail Canada, Coach Canada, and Ontario Northland. When a cardholder presents the Disability Travel Card when purchasing a ticket for travel with one of our participating partners, one support person can accompany them at a reduced fare. The Disability Travel Card holder pays regular ticket price.” (Easter Seals Canada, n.d.)
Federation of BC Youth In Care Networks – “The Federation of BC Youth in Care Networks (FBCYICN, or the Fed) is a youth-driven, peer-based, provincial non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of young people in and from care in BC between the ages of 14 and 24.” (Federation of BC Youth In Care Networks, 2017)
“HandyDART is TransLink’s door-to-door, shared-ride service for people who are unable to navigate conventional public transit without assistance.” (TransLink, n.d.)
Hebrew Free Loan – We provide access to affordable credit in the form of a 0% interest loan so that our borrowers can overcome financial challenges and build better lives.
Jumpstart Charities (Canadian Tire)
“Founded in 2005, Jumpstart helps kids overcome financial and accessibility barriers to sport and recreation in an effort to provide inclusive play for kids of all abilities.” (Jumpstart Charities, 2022)
Kid Sport Canada “The reality is that cost keeps 1 in 3 Canadian kids out of organized sport. KidSport provides grants to help cover those costs to ensure that no kid is ever left watching from the sidelines.” (Kid Sport Canada, 2020)
“To be eligible for the NH Connections program, patients must have a valid BC Care Card, not require care from a health professional (physician or nurse) during their trip and need to access a health service that’s not available in their home community” (Northern Health, 2022).
“Since 1984, SPARC BC has managed B.C.’s Parking Permit Program for People with Disabilities. Apply for or renew your permit to use designated parking spots anywhere in B.C.” (SPARC BC, 2022)
“Internet for Good helps by offering low-cost internet connectivity to Canadians who receive the British Columbia Persons with Disability (PWD) benefit or the Canada Pension Plan Disability Benefit (CPPD).” (Telus, 2022)
“The Tech for Good program supports people with disabilities who require professional assistance to independently use or control their mobile device. The program is primarily educational in nature and provides customized training and support to help improve your quality of life, independence and personal empowerment. (Telus, 2022)
“We offer an environment where everyone can travel autonomously and confidently. To ensure the greatest ease and comfort of travel, we also provide special assistance services.” Includes Travelling with a Support Person Information and Eligibility. (VIA Rail Canada, 2022).
Bus Services from Vancouver to Prince Rupert. “To be eligible for the NH Connections program, patients must have a valid BC Care Card, not require care from a health professional (physician or nurse) during their trip and need to access a health service that’s not available in their home community” (Northern Health, 2022).
Region Specific
Vancouver Coastal & Fraser Regions
Mamas for Mamas (Vancouver & Kelowna)
“Mamas for Mamas is a national charitable organization that supports mothers and caregivers in crisis by providing ongoing support to individuals and families facing various poverty-related struggles.” (Mamas for Mamas, 2021)
Taking Strides (Vancouver & Alberta)
“Taking Strides is a non-profit initiative which was created by students at the University of Calgary in February of 2016. We offer adaptive physical literacy programs for children impacted by mental and physical disabilities. Our main priorities are to keep low fees for the parents, and to facilitate one-on-one child-volunteer pairing,” (Taking Strides, 2017)
Unique Get Together Society (Vancouver & Chilliwack) – Indigenous-focused, special needs programs and therapies, respite care program, social programs and camps.
Fraser Health: Affordable Dentistry Options for Children
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Vancouver Island
“Bear Essentials is a family support program that assists with the costs of health-related travel and equipment for Island kids. The program is designed for families that struggle to afford the associated costs or that have barriers limiting their ability to access health care or equipment for their child.” (Children’s Health Foundation of Vancouver Island, 2022)
Camryn’s Cause for Kids Society
“Camryn’s Cause provides financial assistance to Campbell River families when they have a child facing a health crisis.” (Camryn’s Cause for Kids Society, n.d)
“YANA is a community organization that offers help to Comox Valley families who need to travel for medical treatment for a child or for a pregnant mother. They improve access to healthcare by providing travel funding and accommodation.” (You Are Not Alone (YANA), n.d.)
Victoria Disability Resource Centre
“We offer the free use of three public computers and a printer, as well as a number of Assistive Technology (AT) software programs and devices, to people with disabilities.” (Victoria Disability Resource Centre, 2022)
The Foundation provides funds to help create a happier life for children and teenagers with disabilities or impairments.
The Cridge Center for the Family
The Cridge Respite and Respitality Services are two interconnected programs, designed to meet the needs of families in Greater Victoria who are raising a child with a diagnosed disability or mental health challenge. Our goal is to offer an opportunity for parents or guardians to have a vital break from the physical and mental stressors of day-to-day life to rest, reset, recharge, and rejuvenate. We also provide information and support to assist families in finding community resources, and in accessing respite.
Interior Regions
Nelson and Area Friends of the Family
“Nelson and Area Friends of the Family Foundation provides assistance to children stricken with serious illness or injury by way of financial aid for travel related expenses for medical treatment, and guidance for accessing other support.” (Nelson and Area Friends of the Family, 2022).
Unique Get Together Society (Kamloops)
Indigenous focussed, special needs programs and therapies, respite care program, social programs and camps.
Mamas for Mamas (Kelowna & Vancouver)
“Mamas for Mamas is a national charitable organization that supports mothers and caregivers in crisis by providing ongoing support to individuals and families facing various poverty-related struggles.” (Mamas for Mamas, 2021)
“Friends of Children is a registered charity providing free and confidential service to Northern BC and East Kootenay families travelling to access medical treatments for their children.” (Friends of Children, 2019).
South Okanagan Children’s Charity
“The South Okanagan Children’s Charity has assisted families of children with health problems for over 40 years. The Children’s Charity provides assistance to families with children who have medical needs and extra medical expenses. One hundred percent of the money collected is used to help local children and their families,” (South Okanagan Children’s Charity, 2022).
Community Dental Access Centre – North Okanagan
The Community Dental Access Centre (CDAC) is a non-profit charity that provides dental health services for low-income residents of the North Okanagan. The services are provided at reduced rates (35% – 55% off) dependent upon adjusted family income, (CDAC, 2023).
Northern Regions
“Friends of Children is a registered charity providing free and confidential service to Northern BC and East Kootenay families travelling to access medical treatments for their children.” (Friends of Children, 2019).
Bus Services from Vancouver to Prince Rupert. “To be eligible for the NH Connections program, patients must have a valid BC Care Card, not require care from a health professional (physician or nurse) during their trip and need to access a health service that’s not available in their home community” (Northern Health, 2022).
Northern Health Virtual Clinic
The Northern Health Virtual Primary and Community Care Clinic provides services by phone or through a video call. The COVID-19 Online Clinic name has changed, and is now the Northern Health Virtual Primary and Community Care Clinic.
Registered charity fundraising to cover private assessments in Northern BC and draw giveaway to families in need.
Since 1967, United Way of Northern BC has been mobilizing everyday people and organizations to contribute to programs that support communities in the north.
Prince George Community Foundation | Home (pgcf.ca)
Founded in 1995, the Prince George Community Foundation is an independent, volunteer-driven, charitable organization that brings together people who care about their community.The Prince George Community Foundation facilitates philanthropy, by partnering with donors to build permanent endowment funds that support community projects.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northern BC (bigsnbc.ca)
Since 1979, Big Brothers Big Sisters has been making a positive difference in the lives of our local youth by developing and implementing a wide range of mentoring programs; one-to-one and group programs, for both in school and outside of school.
For Groups or Organizations
President’s Choice Children’s Charity
“Good food and growing and cooking skills are essential building blocks for a child to create the best future they can. President’s Choice Children’s Charity is building a nation of Power Full Kids that are well-fed and ready to learn and empowered with the skills to discover food.” (President’s Choice Charity, 2022)
Jumpstart Charities (Canadian Tire)
Programs include Youth Mental Health, Keeping Girls in Sport and Coaching Kids of All Abilities (Jumpstart Charities, 2022).
Additional Resouces
Autism Q and A: Autism Funding — Blog — AutismBC
Children & Family Funding | BC Disability – Full List of Funding Resources in BC
Cops for Kids Funding for Families (List of other charities/foundations available to families in addition to Cops for Kids).
Resources
AutismBC Talks: Variety the Children's Charity Funding Options
Further Reading
Finding Support Services for Autism in BC
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Autism Funding
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RDSP Tips and Resources
Lisa shares her tips and lessons learned over the years as a parent and Regional Coordinator at AutismBC!