The Provincial Government of B.C. and the Federal Government of Canada offer different funding programs for autistic children and their families. Below, you will find a list of these programs.
Just starting out?
The Autism Spectrum Disorder section of the Children and Youth with Support Needs (CYSN) Government of British Columbia website is a wonderful resource for understanding how your child’s new (or incoming) autism diagnosis will function within the specific supports and resources available in the province of BC. Visit this site to gain a better understanding of what ASD is, how to obtain a diagnostic assessment, how to access funding, and how to build a support team for your autistic child in British Columbia.
British Columbia’s Quick Start Guide offers step-by-step guidance to accessing funding, educational adaptations, and behavioral interventions.
The Province of B.C. provides two autism funding programs for diagnosed children and youth residing in B.C.
The Under 6 program provides $22,000 per child per year for eligible autism and intervention services.
The ages 6-18 program provides $6,000 per child per year. There are strict rules about the kind of services that may be purchased and from whom.
Those coming to B.C. from another province or territory may be required to have a confirmation of their child’s diagnosis performed by a qualified paediatrician, psychiatrist or registered psychologist before receiving autism funding. The form is available here. To receive autism funding, a funding agreement must be completed with the Ministry of Children and Family Development. They can be reached at: 250-387-3530 or PO Box 9776 STN PROV GOVT, Victoria, B.C. V8W 9S5, Canada.
For children living at home with severe disability or complex health needs (dependent in at least three or four daily activities of eating, dressing, toileting and washing), additional benefits may be available. These benefits include respite funding and/or medical benefits or supplies.
You can also get the B.C. Parks Pass through the At Home Program, which allows the child’s camping party to camp for free at B.C. Provincial Park Campgrounds. For more information click here.
If you have not already submitted your tax credit form, you can get information on how to do so from the Canada Revenue Agency website.
Registered Disability Savings Plan
The government currently has a Registered Disability Savings Plan intended to help parents and others save for the long term financial security of a person who is eligible for the Disability Tax Credit. This can be an important investment for many individuals in the long term. Regulations and restrictions can change, so you can get the most recent information on the Canada Revenue website.
The ministry of health has a website which includes information about childcare in bc, including funding options and understanding the different types of childcare. Of particular interest, VSCA recommends reading their Parent’s Guide to Selecting Child Care in BC.
B.C. Ferries offers discounts for passengers with a permanent disability through the B.C. Ferries Accessible Fare Identification (AFI) Card. The discount applies to the cardholder and the escort, if one is required. Click here to view the application form.
