Saskatchewan Party Will Expand Individualized Autism Funding Up To Age 12
October 06, 2020
Today at the Saskatoon Autism Behavior Analysis (ABA) Treatment Centre, Premier Scott Moe announced that a re-elected Saskatchewan Party government will expand the eligibility for individualized autism funding to children under age 12. It currently covers children under age six.
"Our government introduced individualized autism funding for children under six in 2018, fulfilling a commitment we made in the last election campaign," Moe said. "In this year's budget, we announced that the benefit for children under six will increase to $8,000 per year.
"Today, I am announcing that children ages six to 11 will be eligible for individualized funding of $6,000 per year."
"I welcome this announcement from the Saskatchewan Party," said Shannon Hill, who is one of the owners as well as a behavioral consultant at the Centre. "This will allow for the continuation of services to families with children beyond age six, which is crucial for their development."
Individualized funding provides parents with the flexibility to choose from a range of therapeutic interventions and supports that will most benefit their child. A Saskatchewan Party government will consult with parents and stakeholders to determine services that should be added to the current eligible list.
Currently, about 500 children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are receiving individualized funding.
The expanded program will begin in 2021. It will benefit an additional 1,000 Saskatchewan children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and will cost $6 million per year.
"More support for children with autism and their parents is part of our plan for strong families and a strong Saskatchewan," Moe said.