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Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to the FAQ section for the Community Assistance Program (CAP). Our goal is to provide clear and helpful information to guide you through the resources and services available through this initiative. 

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How is CAP funded?

CAP funding is made possible through donations, fundraising efforts, and community support. Because funding levels and program capacity vary from year-to-year, review timelines may fluctuate. During periods of high application volume, applications are placed in a review queue and may take longer to process. Status updates are not available during this stage, and applicants will receive an email once their application has been reviewed.

Should you want to donate towards this program, you can do so here: Donate to CAP

 

Who is eligible to receive support through CAP?

CAP is available to Autistic people of all ages, including children, youth, and adults, across Canada. The person accessing services must have a confirmed or suspected Autism Spectrum diagnosis, depending on the type of support being requested.

Who can apply for CAP? 

Only service providers who are registered and approved on Autism Canada’s CAP Roster may submit applications on behalf of their clients. Families and Autistic adults cannot apply directly. If you are seeking CAP funding, please consult the CAP Roster to identify and work with an approved provider in your area.

 

How does a service provider get added to the CAP Roster? 
Service providers must complete Autism Canada’s Service Provider Intake Form
 and undergo a vetting and review process. If approved, the provider is added to the CAP Roster and receives an individual access link to the application portal.

Each provider is approved individually based on their credentials and scope of practice.

When does the CAP program operate?

CAP operates in two application cycles per year: Spring (January to May) and Fall (August to October). 

How often can someone access CAP? 

CAP funding is available once per calendar year per applicant, either one Autistic adult aged 18 or older, or one family. Registered service providers may submit up to two applications per year, with additional applications considered based on available funding.

Is funding guaranteed once an application is submitted? 

No. Funding is limited and not guaranteed. Applications are reviewed in the order received and assessed based on eligibility, demonstrated need, documentation completeness, provincial fee standards, existing funding sources, and overall program capacity.

Are CAP decisions final?
Yes. Due to limited funding and high demand, CAP funding decisions are final. Not all applications can be approved. Decisions are based on available funding levels, application volume or waitlisting pressures, documentation completeness, and eligibility requirements. We appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to support as many people as possible through the program.

Can service providers share their application access with others in their organization? 

No. Application access links are issued to approved service providers individually and may not be shared under any circumstances. Sharing an access link, including within the same organization or clinic, will result in disqualification from future CAP participation.

This policy ensures fairness, accountability, and consistency across all applications.

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Can service providers charge a fee to submit the application? 

No. Service providers may not charge families or Autistic people any fees to complete or submit a CAP application. CAP is intended to reduce financial barriers, not create additional costs.

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How do service providers access the application portal?

Only service providers who are approved and listed on the CAP Service Provider Roster receive an access link to the application portal. Access links are issued following successful provider approval or when a new application cycle opens.

 

To join the CAP Service Provider Roster, complete the Service Provider Intake Form.

What happens if an application is incomplete or missing documentation? 

Incomplete or inconsistent applications are not reviewed and will be declined. All required forms and documentation must be completed accurately and submitted in full at the time of application.

Where can I find more information?
Please refer to the CAP landing page for the most up to date program details, eligibility criteria, and step-by-step process information.

Still have questions? Contact the CAP Team.

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