Member Statement (18 November 2021)

From Hansard (18 November 2021)

 

Expansion of Individualized Funding Program for Children with Autism

Mr. McLeod: — Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I’m pleased to announce the expansion of eligible services under the individualized funding program for children with autism.

Mr. Speaker, it is vital that children with autism receive the therapies and life skills they need to learn, grow, and thrive. We never want cost to be an impediment to families obtaining these specialized services for their child, Mr. Speaker.

The individualized funding program already provides up to $8,000 per year for families to access a range of eligible therapeutic and support services, and now, Mr. Speaker, we have added to that list. Now eligible for coverage are important life-skill programs like swimming, tutoring to help them achieve their educational goals, day camps and summer programs, as well as equine therapy. All of these, Mr. Speaker, promote skill development as well as physical, occupational, and emotional growth. These services can help children with autism build independence in ways that are best suited to them.

During the last provincial election, we made a commitment to expand autism individualized funding to help cover the costs for children with autism between the ages of 6 and 11. I am proud to say that we followed through on that commitment with $6 million this year.

Mr. Speaker, our government is committed to providing the supports necessary for the children of our province with autism to grow and thrive. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

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