COMMUNITY ASSISTANCE PROGRAM APPLICATION SUPPORT
Autism Canada CAP Application Support
Always Connected to… CAP Funding:
What is the Community Assistance Program (CAP)?
The Community Assistance Program (CAP) is a funding initiative by Autism Canada designed to subsidize essential one-on-one services for individuals on the autism spectrum. It helps families access therapies, respite care, camp programs, psychological assessments, post-secondary supports, and other professional services that may otherwise be financially unattainable.
Who is eligible for CAP funding?
- The individual receiving support must be on the autism spectrum.
- Services must be provided by a qualified professional or organization that meets CAP’s criteria.
- Additional eligibility requirements apply for psychological assessments, early intervention, camp, post-secondary support, and gift card programs (see relevant sections).
What is Covered?
- 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 (6 and Under): 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 to Apply for the Autism Canada Community Assistance Program (CAP) at ACTN
Follow these steps to complete your CAP application:
Step 1: Submit the Interest Form
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Complete the ACTN – Autism Canada CAP Interest Form.
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Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
Step 2: Intake & Consent for Services
Applicants must submit:
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ACTN Consent for Services (based on the regulated professional completing the application)
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Review the Service & Pricing Information
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Review the Client Services Handbook
Step 3: Obtain a Referral
A referral is required from a professional who has worked with the applicant 1:1, such as:
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Caseworker (Therapist, SSW, DSW, Outreach Worker)
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Educator / Resource Teacher
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Local Autism Support Agency
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Medical Professional (Doctor, Nurse Practitioner)
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Occupational Therapist, Psychologist, Psychotherapist
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Speech & Language Pathologist
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Board Certified Behaviour Analyst (BCBA)
Find the referral form on the last two pages of the 2025 CAP Program Application.
Step 4: Application Interview
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A regulated professional from ACTN will discuss the application with your family.
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Service fees apply based on time spent on the application.
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Fees must be paid in full before submission.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
Your application is complete once the following are submitted:
- Referral Form
- Application Form
- Full Payment of Application Fees
ACTN will submit your application to Autism Canada. Processing time: Up to 4 weeks.
Step 6: Service Agreement & Funding Use
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Approved applicants have 6 months to use their funding.
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Services will be determined based on mutual agreement between the applicant and ACTN.
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Both the applicant and ACTN will track service hours.
Need help? Contact us for support!
Referrals must come from someone who has worked directly with the applicant, but may be from the same organization as the regulated professional applying.
Only a regulated professional can complete the application.
Applications should be sent directly to CAP@autismcanada.org.
The expected processing time for applications is approximately 2 to 4 weeks.