Raising a child on the autism spectrum is a journey that comes with unique joys, challenges, and often, significant financial burdens. Families want to provide the best possible support for their children, but the costs associated with therapies and services can be overwhelming. At the SAAAC Autism Centre, we’ve witnessed these struggles firsthand, which is why we are proud to launch the Chance Fund—a new initiative aimed at easing the financial stress for families in our community.
Why We Started the Chance Fund
The reality for many families caring for a loved one with autism is that essential services, such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), Speech-Language Therapy, and Occupational Therapy, can be prohibitively expensive. These therapies play a crucial role in helping children develop language, communication, and social skills, yet they can cost up to $80,000 a year. For families already navigating the emotional and logistical challenges of autism, this financial strain can be devastating.
A Canadian public policy study found that the lifetime cost of supporting an individual with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) ranges between $1.2 million and $4.7 million, depending on the level of symptom severity and disability. These figures underscore the need for financial support, which is why the Chance Fund was created—to ensure that more families can access the services their children need without facing insurmountable financial hurdles.
How the Chance Fund Works
The SAAAC Chance Fund provides financial assistance to families currently receiving services at our centre. In its first year, the fund will support 50 families, offering between $1,300 and $4,000 per family to help cover the cost of vital autism services. We understand that every family’s situation is different, and our goal is to provide support that can make a meaningful impact.
At present, the Chance Fund is only available to families who are part of the SAAAC community, as we want to focus on those who already engage with our programs. By starting small, we can learn and refine the process, ensuring that we’re able to expand and help even more families in the future.
How Is the Chance Fund Funded?
The Chance Fund exists thanks to the generosity of our community. It is fueled by donations, community events, and fundraisers like our annual Walk-A-Thon, where individuals, families, and local businesses come together to support a common cause. Every dollar raised goes directly toward providing financial aid to families who need it most, ensuring that children can access essential therapies without the constant worry about costs.
It’s not just about the money raised—it’s about building a community that stands together. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported our events, donated, or simply spread the word. Your contributions are helping to create real change for families facing immense challenges.
Join Us in Making a Difference
The launch of the Chance Fund is just the beginning. With your continued support, we hope to grow this initiative and reach even more families in the years to come. If you’re an individual or a corporation looking to make a meaningful impact, consider donating to the Chance Fund. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps us provide vital services to families who need them.
To learn more or to donate, please visit our Chance Fund donation page.
Thank you for believing in our mission and for supporting the SAAAC Autism Centre. Together, we can create a world where every child has the opportunity to thrive.