Speech-language consultation, autism services, and developmental support for all ages.

Preschool Speech & Language Initiative for children from birth to school entry.

These programs provide publicly funded speech and language services in Waterloo Region:

These programs help families access financial support for therapy, respite care, and daily living needs:

• President's Choice Children's Charity

  Offers funding to support children with disabilities, including therapy and equipment.

• Special Services at Home (SSAH)

  Financial assistance for families of children with physical or developmental disabilities to help with respite and personal development.

• Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP)

  Provides financial assistance and health benefits for adults with disabilities.

• Family Support and Respite for Children and Youth with Special Needs

  Government-funded respite services for families of children with disabilities.

• Children With Special Needs

  Offers access to various services for children with developmental, physical, and medical needs.

• Easter Seals Incontinence Supplies Grant

  Provides financial assistance for incontinence supplies for children with disabilities.

• Access2 Card

  Offers discounted or free admission to participating entertainment venues for individuals with disabilities and their support persons.

• Ontario Autism Program (OAP)

  Supports families with children diagnosed with autism through funding and access to therapy services.

• Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities (ACSD)

  Financial support for low-to-moderate-income families caring for a child with severe disabilities.

• Canada Child Benefit

  Monthly financial assistance for families of children with disabilities.

• Registered Disability Savings Plan

  Long-term savings plan for people with disabilities, with government matching contributions.

• Healthy Smiles Ontario

  Free dental care for eligible children and youth in low-income families. Automatic enrollment for ODSP recipients.

Additional Disability Resources

Other support programs for individuals with disabilities in Waterloo Region:

• KW AccessAbility

  Provides information and referrals to community resources.

• Extend-A-Family Waterloo Region

  Respite and inclusive community programs for children and youth.

• Waterloo Region Family Network (WRFN)

  Personal guidance and lifelong support for families with special needs.

• Special Needs Access Point (SNAP) 

  Supports children with special needs in licensed childcare programs.

Advocacy and Rights
Resources to support and empower individuals with communication needs in accessing their rights and navigating legal, healthcare, and community systems:

• Communication Intermediaries (CIs)

  Trained professionals who support individuals with speech, language, and communication disabilities in legal settings. They help ensure effective communication within the justice system.

Free in-home speech therapy for eligible individuals covered by OHIP.

Workshops & Parent Education

These organizations offer free or paid workshops to help parents and caregivers support their children’s development:

• KidsAbility

  Free workshops on feeding, emotional regulation, social skills, and more.

• ErinOak Kids

  Workshops on speech, language, and developmental topics for parents and caregivers.

• Kerry's Place Autism Services

  Online and in-person workshops for parents of children with autism.

• Autism Ontario

  Connects parents with special needs resources and educational workshops.

• Lumenus Community Services

  Workshops and mental health support for families.