Community Assistance Program (CAP)
Creating accessible pathways to care for the Autistic community and those who support them.
Overview:
Autism Canada’s Community Assistance Program (CAP) provides subsidized financial support to reduce barriers to care for Autistic people across the lifespan, including children, youth, and adults, as well as the families and caregivers who support them. Funding is intended for essential services not covered by public or private sources.
Approved applicants may receive up to $2,000 in funding per year. However, funding amounts are not guaranteed and are determined based on demonstrated need, the type of services, provincial fee standards, the client’s existing funding sources, and the overall volume of applications.
With the support of recognized service providers, CAP helps the Autistic community access meaningful, person-centred care that reflects their needs, goals, and strengths.
Who Can Apply:
Only service providers who are registered and approved on Autism Canada’s CAP Roster may submit applications. Providers must complete a vetting process before gaining access to the CAP application system. Families and Autistic adults cannot apply directly and are asked not to email or call to follow up on their application.
Each applicant may receive CAP support once per calendar year.
Each service provider or clinic is limited to a maximum of two applications per calendar year. Additional submissions may only be considered upon review.
Applicants must be diagnosed or suspected to be on the Autism Spectrum.
Who Qualifies as a CAP Service Provider?
To be eligible for Autism Canada’s CAP Roster, service providers must offer direct supports to Autistic people or their families. Qualified licensed providers may include:
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Licensed psychologists or psychological associates
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Occupational therapists
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Speech language pathologists
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Board Certified Behaviour Analysts (BCBAs)
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Psychotherapists or mental health counsellors
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Social workers (RSW or MSW)
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Therapeutic recreation specialists
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Respite providers or personal support workers
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Neurodivergent-led support workers or coaches
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Camp directors or recreational program leaders
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Transition or life skills coaches
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Multidisciplinary clinics offering the above services
All providers must demonstrate relevant credentials. Autism Canada vets each provider’s website and public materials to ensure alignment with our vision, mission, values, and inclusive language. We reserve the right to deny or revoke registration if these standards are not met.
Eligible Services:
CAP provides support for services not covered by public or private funding, including::
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Psychological Assessment (ASD)
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Speech language, occupational, or behavioural therapy
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Mental Health Supports such as counselling, psychotherapy, CBT or trauma informed care
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Transition Support for Autistic youth and adults (life skills, employment, post-secondary, community programs)
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Respite Services
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Day or overnight camps offering neurodivergent focussed programming
How It Works:
Service providers complete an automated application form on behalf of the client or caregiver.
Each service provider approved on the CAP Roster receives a secure, one-time use link to submit applications. Links cannot be reused or shared. Sharing links, even within an organization, will disqualify the provider from future CAP participation.
All applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis and assessed based on need, available funds, and documentation.
Applications must include the required completed PDFs:
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Consent Form (from the caregiver for clients under 18 and from the individual 18+)
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Two Referral Letters or Statements of Need are required from two separate professionals (not the service provider applying for funding) who can advocate for the client’s need for services. Examples include a teacher, teacher’s aide, resource teacher, family doctor, pediatrician, social worker, or another professional who works directly with the client and can speak to their support needs.
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Direct Deposit Form
Incomplete or inconsistent applications will not be reviewed.
Important Notes:
Service providers are not permitted to charge families or Autistic people any fees to complete or submit a CAP application.
Funding is not guaranteed, and amounts may be less than the $2,000 maximum depending on the type of service, existing funding, provincial fee standards, and the number of applications received.
All services must be completed before payment is issued.
A maximum of two applications per clinic or service provider, per year will be accepted.
Payment Process
Funding is paid directly to the approved service provider.
Once services have been delivered in full and an invoice has been submitted, payment may take up to 60 business days due to the volume of applications.
Program Timeline
Current funding cycle ends October 31, 2025.
The program will be closed for applications during June and July of each year.
The next funding cycle begins January 5, 2026.
Becoming a Registered Service Provider
To become part of the CAP Roster, service providers must complete Autism Canada’s intake process. Please complete the Service Provider Intake Form and allow up to 30 business days for our team to complete the vetting process and provide a response.
Questions?
Visit our CAP FAQ for more information. If your question is not answered there, you can contact the CAP Team at cap@autismcanada.org.