Funding Sources
Autism Funding
The Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) provides funding through two Autism Funding Programs:
(1) Autism Funding – under 6 years of age: This program provides families with up to $22,000 per year, per child, to assist in purchasing eligible autism intervention services and therapies.
(2) Autism Funding – ages 6-18: This program provides families up to $6,000 per year, per child, to assist them with the cost of purchasing eligible autism intervention services and therapies outside of school. This funding is in addition to the educational program and special education services
At Home Program: Medical Benefits (AHP)
The At Home Program (AHP) assists families with some of the disability-related costs of caring for a child with a disability at home. Children may be eligible for full program benefits or for a choice of respite or medical benefits.
The At Home Program provides assistance to families in two main areas:
1) Respite Benefits (age 18 or younger): allows parents to choose appropriate care options; and
2) Medical Benefits (age 17 or younger): provides a range of medical equipment, supplies and intervention services.
Variety – The Children’s Charity of BC
Variety provides direct help to children with special needs in British Columbia with funding for: – Medical care and services
– Mobility equipment and specialised therapies
– Education and experiences Variety offers grants to children with special needs across B.C. who meet the following criteria:
– Children and youth aged from 0-19 years,
– B.C. or Yukon resident for a minimum of three months with a valid Health Care Card,
– Qualified special need (medical/developmental) as recognized by a designated professional,
– Financial circumstance that limits the ability to afford the item or service required,
– Total net household income of up to $65,000 per year.
CKNW Kids' Fund
The At Home Program (AHP) assists families with some of the disability-related costs of caring for a child with a disability at home. Children may be eligible for full program benefits or for a choice of respite or medical benefits.
The At Home Program provides assistance to families in two main areas:
1) Respite Benefits (age 18 or younger): allows parents to choose appropriate care options; and
2) Medical Benefits (age 17 or younger): provides a range of medical equipment, supplies and intervention services.
Jordan's Principle
From the Jordan’s Principle Website:
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.
Under Jordan’s Principle we are ensuring that First Nations children can access the products, services and supports they need, when they need them, while we work with First Nations partners, provinces and territories to develop long-term approaches to help better address the unique needs of First Nations children.
Extended Health
Many extended health care plans will pay for services such as occupational therapy, speech therapy, and visits to registered psychologists. Check the details of your health care plan to see if this could be an option for your family.
Please note, we do not provide direct billing.
