What is the Community Assistance Program (CAP)? 

• The CAP provides financial aid to individuals and families on the autism spectrum to help cover the partial cost of services like psychological assessments, therapies, and respite care, which are not covered by provincial health plans. 

 

Who can apply for CAP funding? 

• The application must be submitted by a specialist or service provider (e.g., psychologists, or occupational therapists). Caregivers should work with their chosen provider to ensure all necessary information is included. 

 

Why can’t a caregiver apply?

• The application should be submitted by a qualified professional to ensure that the funds are allocated for services that are suitable and essential for the individual’s needs. Experts such as therapists, psychologists, or doctors possess the necessary expertise to evaluate the situation and confirm the requirement for financial support, thereby ensuring the effective use of the program’s resources. As a caregiver, your responsibility is to provide relevant information and work together with the professional, but the formal application process must be managed by them. 

 

What kinds of services does CAP cover? 

• CAP covers psychological assessments, mental and physical health therapies, respite care and camps. It is meant to support services that are vital for individuals on the spectrum but are not covered by other provincial funding. 

 

How do I start the process? 

• To access CAP, you must connect with a CAP registered specialist or service provider who will apply for the funds on your behalf. You need to provide them with all relevant information related to your request for assistance. 

 

 How much funding can I receive through CAP? 

• The program provides partial funding for services, and the amounts vary depending on the type of support. For example, psychological assessments and therapies may be covered up to a certain amount, but exact figures will depend on the program’s current funding availability. 

 

Is there a limit to how many times I can apply? 

• Each family is limited to one application per calendar year, and funds must be used within six months of approval. 

 

Does the CAP cover all the costs of services? 

• No, CAP subsidizes only part of the costs. You or your family may still need to cover the remaining expenses. 

 

What Supports and Services does CAP cover 

• Psychological Assessment Fund: Up to $2,000 CAD for autism diagnosis through a psychological assessment, helping individuals access resources and plan for the future. 

 

• Early Intervention Fund: Up to $2,000 CAD for essential therapies like speech, occupational, or physical therapy to support early autism interventions. 

 

• Respite and Recreation Fund: Up to $2,000 CAD for respite care services that give caregivers relief to focus on their well-being. Funds must be used within six months. 

 

• Camps Fund: Up to $1,000 CAD to subsidize daily/weekly camps for autistic children and youth, fostering social skills, independence, and lasting memories. Funds must be used within six months. 

 

• Post-Secondary Transition Support Fund: Up to $2,000 CAD for personal support services (e.g., laundry, meal prep) to assist autistic students transitioning to post-secondary education. 

 

• Gift Card Program: $500 CAD: With the rising cost of essential goods in Canada, many autistic individuals and their families/caregivers find themselves unable to keep up. The Gift Card Program aims to reduce the cost of living for many vulnerable individuals on the spectrum and their families by assisting with basic and extraordinary living expenses. This includes providing gift cards redeemable at their local grocer or supermarket, as well as for augmentative and alternative communication (ACC) devices and other expenses recommended by a licensed therapist. 

 

 How long does the application process take? 

• The application process is subject to review and approval by Autism Canada. It may take some time, so be sure to connect with your service provider well in advance. 

 

 Who receives the funds? 

• The funds are sent directly to the service providers, not to individuals or caregivers. 

 

What is respite care, and how does CAP help with it? 

• Respite care provides temporary relief to caregivers by having someone else care for the individual for a short time. CAP subsidizes part of the cost to make it more accessible. 

 

What if I have more questions? 

• Autism Canada is here to help. You can reach out with any further questions to CAP@autismcanada.org