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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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Who can apply for CAP? 

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. 

 

How does a service provider get added to the CAP Roster? 
All service providers must register with Autism Canada and go through a review and vetting process. Once approved, they will be added to the CAP Roster and will receive a unique, one time use application link to apply on behalf of their client. 

 

Can service providers share their application link with others in their organization? 
No. Each application link is unique and cannot be shared under any circumstances. Sharing your link, even with another provider in your organization, will disqualify the entire organization from future CAP participation. This policy helps ensure fairness, transparency, and accountability in the distribution of funds. 

 

Who is eligible to receive support through CAP? 
CAP is available to Autistic people of any age, including children, youth, and adults. Applicants must be diagnosed or suspected to be on the Autism Spectrum. 

 

How often can someone access CAP? 
Each applicant may receive CAP support once per calendar year. Each registered service provider may submit up to two applications per calendar year. Additional submissions may be considered on review. 

 

What services are eligible for CAP funding? 
CAP provides support for services not covered by public or private funding, including:

  • Psychological assessments 

  • Speech language, occupational, or behavioural therapy 

  • Mental health supports such as counselling, psychotherapy, CBT, or trauma informed care 

  • Transition support for Autistic youth and adults 

  • Respite services 

  • Day or overnight camps offering neurodivergent focused programming 

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 providers may include: 

  • Licensed psychologists or psychological associates 

  • Occupational therapists 

  • Speech language pathologists 

  • Board Certified Behaviour Analysts (BCBAs) 

  • Psychotherapists or mental health counsellors 

  • Social workers (RSW or MSW) 

  • Therapeutic recreation specialists 

  • Respite providers or personal support workers 

  • Neurodivergent-led support workers or coaches 

  • Camp directors or recreational program leaders 

  • Transition or life skills coaches 

  • Multidisciplinary clinics offering the above services 

All providers must demonstrate relevant credentials; Autism Canada reserves the right to approve. 

Is funding guaranteed once an application is submitted? 
No. Funding is limited and not guaranteed. All applications are reviewed on a first come, first served basis and assessed based on need, available funds, and documentation. 

Can service providers charge a fee to submit the application? 
No. Service providers are not permitted to charge families or Autistic people to complete or submit a CAP application. The program is designed to reduce financial barriers, not introduce additional costs. 

What documentation is required? 
All applications must include the following completed downloadable PDFs:

  • Consent Form 

  • Referral Letter or Statement of Need 

  • Direct Deposit Form 

Incomplete applications will not be processed. 

How does the payment process work? 
Funding is paid directly to the approved service provider. Once the service has been delivered in full and an invoice has been submitted, payment may take up to 60 business days due to the volume of applicants. 

What happens if an application is incomplete or missing documentation? 
Incomplete or inconsistent applications will not be reviewed. To avoid delays, ensure all required forms are completed accurately and submitted at the time of application. 

When does the CAP program operate? 
The current funding cycle runs until October 31, 2025. The next cycle will begin January 5, 2026. 

How can I access the application forms? 
Only service providers who are approved and listed on the CAP Roster will receive a secure, one time use link to submit their application. These links cannot be reused or forwarded. 

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