Footholds Therapy Center

02/12/2026

We are sharing a petition created by families across British Columbia who are deeply concerned about the potential loss or reduction of services under the new system.

This petition reflects the voices of parents and caregivers who are advocating for continued access to meaningful supports for children and youth whose needs may not be fully captured within a needs-based eligibility model.

If you wish to learn more or participate, please review the petition attached to this email.

Footholds is sharing this resource for awareness and information, recognizing that many families want opportunities to stay informed, engaged, and connected to the broader community response.

Save individualized funding for BC kids with ASD

02/12/2026

Dear Footholds Families,

Many of you may have seen the provincial government’s recent announcement outlining significant changes to how disability supports for children and youth will be funded in British Columbia.

The current BC Autism Funding Program is scheduled to conclude on March 31, 2027. It will be replaced by a new provincial disability support framework that includes:

• BC Children and Youth Disability Benefit — a needs-based funding program
• BC Children and Youth Disability Supplement — an income-based monthly payment

Most importantly: Autism Funding remains fully in place until March 31, 2027. Families can continue to apply and access services under the existing program through March 2027.

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What We Understand at This Time

1. BC Children and Youth Disability Benefit

This new benefit will provide funding based on a child’s functional support needs rather than diagnosis alone. It is intended to replace Autism Funding and several other programs by April 2027.

Families currently receiving Autism Funding will be contacted by a ministry representative to support their transition.

Eligibility may occur through either:

• A direct-admit pathway for children who meet specific criteria
• A needs-based review pathway, which will involve assessment of functional support requirements

Based on what has been shared so far, many families may need to proceed through the needs-based review process to access funding. Details about how eligibility will be determined are still emerging.

⸻

2. BC Children and Youth Disability Supplement

This is a monthly financial supplement based on household income. It is expected to begin in July 2027 for families whose child:

• Qualifies for the Federal Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
• Meets provincial income eligibility requirements

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Steps Families May Wish to Consider Now

• Stay informed
Review official provincial updates about the transition and eligibility criteria. Information is available here:
https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/managing-your-health/child-behaviour-development/support-needs

• Attend information sessions
The province is offering virtual sessions for parents and caregivers through Autism Information Services BC and the Autism Funding program. These sessions explain the current system and upcoming changes.
Registration link (Ages 6–18 session):
https://submit.digital.gov.bc.ca/app/form/submit?f=82b84cf5-c9a3-4981-b1bf-9e39ffe03a21

• Connect with your CYSN social worker
If your child currently receives Autism Funding, you will be contacted regarding transition planning. Families can also reach out proactively.

• Apply for the Federal Disability Tax Credit (DTC)
Approval for the DTC will be important for families who may qualify for the future income-based supplement.

• Ensure annual tax filing
Income reporting will be used to determine eligibility for the provincial supplement beginning in 2027.

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Footholds’ Perspective

Footholds supports efforts to provide flexible funding that reflects the diverse needs of children and families. We also recognize that financial supports tied to income may provide meaningful relief for some households.

At the same time, we understand that many families have questions and concerns about how needs-based eligibility will be determined — particularly for children and youth with autism who may not meet criteria for the highest support categories or who do not have co-occurring intellectual disabilities.

We know from experience that these children and youth often require substantial and ongoing support to thrive, participate, and reach their full potential. Their needs are real, meaningful, and deserving of thoughtful consideration within any new system.

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Moving Forward Together

Information about these changes continues to evolve. Like many of you, we are reviewing updates as they are released and working to understand what this transition will mean in practice.

We welcome any information you receive from your social worker and encourage ongoing dialogue. As more clarity emerges, Footholds will continue to share updates and guidance.

If you are able to attend an upcoming information session, we hope to connect there as we learn and navigate these changes together.

With care,
Footholds Therapy Center

02/05/2026

Footholds Therapy offers a range of counselling services designed to meet people at every stage of life, including:
• Individual counselling for adults
• Child and youth therapy
• Family counselling
• Support for anxiety, stress, and emotional regulation
• Trauma-informed therapy
• Help navigating life transitions, relationships, and personal growth
Our therapists focus on creating a safe, supportive environment where clients can build skills, gain clarity, and move forward with confidence — at a pace that feels right for them. Learn more or book an appointment through our website at www.footholds.ca

02/03/2026

At Footholds Therapy, we believe everyone deserves the support they need to feel grounded, confident, and well. Our team of compassionate, qualified therapists offers counselling services for individuals, children, youth, and families. We provide a safe, welcoming space to work through life’s challenges — whether that’s anxiety, stress, relationship concerns, trauma, or navigating big transitions.

We meet you where you’re at and move forward together, one step at a time. Learn more about our services or book an appointment by visiting our website, http://www.footholds.ca.

02/03/2026

We are pleased to announce that we’re offering counselling services.

01/29/2026

Jan 29 is National Puzzle Day! Puzzles are excellent tools for learning and development. Whether it’s a jigsaw puzzle, logic game, or puzzling pattern, these activities can help:
✔ Problem-solving and planning skills
✔ Visual-motor coordination
✔ Memory and attention
✔ Patience and persistence
✔ Social teamwork when done with others

That’s why we often use puzzle play and hands-on activities in therapy — they’re a playful way to build important skills that support communication, daily tasks, regulation, and confidence.

Try a puzzle with someone today — and see how many small wins you can celebrate along the way!

01/27/2026

Progress doesn’t always look big — and that’s okay. Sometimes it’s trying something new, asking for help, using a new word, or making it through a tough transition. At Footholds Therapy Centre, we celebrate every step forward, knowing that growth happens at different speeds and in different ways for each child and family. If your January has felt like a slow start, you’re not behind. You’re right where you need to be. 💛 We can support, reach out at www.footholds.ca.

01/22/2026

International Day of Education is coming up on Jan 24. Education isn’t just about school assignments; it’s about building skills that help us communicate, contribute, and thrive every day. That’s exactly what happens in many of our programs — from speech-language therapy to life skills and social learning.
Strong communication and self-regulation skills help children:
✔ Express ideas clearly
✔ Build friendships
✔ Participate confidently in classroom settings
✔ Navigate everyday challenges
If you’re curious about how our services support learning beyond the classroom, let’s chat!

01/20/2026

Bell Let's Talk Day is tomorrow. Mental health matters at every age and communication plays a huge role in feeling understood, connected and confident. At Footholds, our therapists support not just speech and language or daily skills, we also help kids feel heard and empowered. Whether it’s expressive language, social understanding, or self-regulation strategies, improving communication can truly open the door to better wellbeing and connection. Today and every day, let’s keep the conversation going. Reach out anytime, visit www.footholds.ca.

01/14/2026

January can feel heavy for many families. Shorter days, colder weather, changes in routine, and post-holiday transitions can impact mood, regulation, and energy — especially for children and youth.
At Footholds, we often support kids who are experiencing:
• Increased emotional dysregulation
• More difficulty with transitions
• Communication challenges during stress
• Changes in behaviour or motivation

Through therapy, we help build coping strategies, communication tools, and everyday skills that support emotional wellbeing — not just in January, but all year long. You’re not alone, and support is always available. 💛 Learn more at www.footholds.ca.

01/12/2026

Happy National Youth Day (Jan 12)! Today is a day to celebrate the potential, curiosity, and growth of young people. At Footholds, we’re honoured to support children and youth every step of the way. Whether it’s building communication skills, improving daily routines, or growing independence through life skills programs, we see strength and possibility in each child. Here’s to encouraging confidence, capability, and connection in every young person we work with! Want to know how our programs can support your child’s journey? Message us anytime, visit www.footholds.ca.

01/08/2026

Strong social skills can make a big difference in a child’s confidence, relationships, and school success. Footholds offers social groups designed to help individuals interact in a supportive, structured environment — perfect for new beginnings in the new year! Does your child enjoy group activities? Tell us what they love most! Discover our social programs: www.footholds.ca.