Resources for Families
We recognize that the journey to support individuals who are neurodiverse is complex and we hope that we can offer some guidance to naviagte what can be an overhelming world. Below are a few options for resources in our community. This list is by no means exhaustive.
BLADERUNNERS
BladeRunners is a provincial employment-based program provided through NYSA and funded by the Government of British Columbia. The program gives young people the tools, certificates, confidence, and opportunity to reach their fullest working potential. BladeRunners has been designed for youth aged 16 to 30 who have encountered barriers or challenges in finding and/or keeping employment. NYSA staff work alongside participants to encourage, empower, and support them through this four-week, paid program.
CANUCKS AUTISM NETWORK
Canucks Autism Network (CAN) provides programs for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families, while promoting acceptance and inclusion through community engagement and training initiatives across BC and beyond.
SCOUTS
Scouts Canada is the country’s leading co-ed youth organization, offering programming for children and youth aged 5-26. With over 42,000 youth participating across the country, in multiple languages and reflecting Canada’s multicultural landscape, kids and youth in Scouts chart their own path of discovery. Through a variety of fun experiences, outdoor adventures and contributions to their community, Scouts builds resilience and skills that set them up for life.
MAMAS FOR MAMAS
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. Their mission is to change the landscape of poverty through innovative approaches to financial barriers faced by struggling families. While their name is Mamas for Mamas, they welcome caregivers of any gender identity or expression, including men, trans*, non-binary, and two-spirit clients. They envision a future where no Mama or child is left behind.
EASTER SEAL ACCESS 2 PASS
The Access 2 Card program helps to ensure that entertainment, cultural and recreational opportunities are more available and accessible to all. To be eligible for the Access 2 Card, you must:
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Live with a permanent disability, as defined below.
AND -
The nature of your disability requires you to have the assistance of a support person, when visiting participating venues.
EASTER SEAL DISABILITY TRAVEL CARD
The Disability Travel Card is for people of all types of permanent disabilities who require the assistance of a support person when travelling with VIA Rail Canada, and Coach Canada. When a cardholder presents the Disability Travel Card when purchasing a ticket for travel with one of the participating companies mentioned above, one support person can accompany them during travel for a reduced fee. The person with the disability (the Disability Travel Card holder) pays regular ticket price.
TAP
The Travel Assistance Program (TAP) sometimes feels like one of the Ministry of Health's best kept secrets. 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.
THE AT HOME PROGRAMME
The AT HOME PROGRAM (AHP) is intended to assist parents or guardians with some of the extraordinary costs of caring for a child with severe disabilities at home.
The AHP assists in two main areas:
· AHP RESPITE BENEFITS allow parents or guardians to access respite services that best suit their needs.
· AHP MEDICAL BENEFITS provide a range of basic, medically necessary items and services.
A child may be eligible for both Respite Benefits and Medical Benefits, or a choice of one benefit.
REGISTERED DISABLITY SAVINGS PLAN (RDSP)
A registered disability savings plan (RDSP) is a savings plan intended to help an individual who is approved to receive the disability tax credit (DTC) to save for their long-term financial security. Contributions to an RDSP are not tax deductible and can be made until the end of the year in which the beneficiary turns 59
ISLAND COMMUNITY COUNSELLING
specializes in addressing emotional and mental health needs for individuals with additional challenges. They have professionals who are trained in supporting children on the autism spectrum. Some of their services are free or come at a low cost to families. Their focus is affordability and accessibility. They can be contacted at 250-716-8888
VANCOUVER ISLAND CRISIS LINE
Vancouver Island Crisis Line: 1‑888‑494‑3888
The 24-hour Vancouver Island Crisis Line is a service contracted by Provincial Health Services Authority.