On the heels of World Autism Awareness Day on April 2, the Province is announcing $100,000 to help support the Comox Valley Child Development Association renovate their facility.

“The Comox Valley Child Development Association has been helping families in the Comox Valley for more than 40 years,” said MLA Don McRae on behalf of Health Minister Terry Lake. “Their autism program has touched the lives of many children and youth in the community, and this new facility will continue to help people with autism to reach their potential.”

The renovation will add on approximately 186 square metres (approximately 2,000 square feet) to an existing building at 237 Third St. in Courtenay. The facility will incorporate a design based on the newest evidence about what environments work best for children and youth with autism. This includes individualized intervention rooms, a gymnasium linked to an outdoor play area, and a kitchen and laundry to build life skills. The facility will use lighting and colours that create a tranquil environment conducive for learning.

“The Child Development Association is deeply appreciative of this support,” said Joanne Schroeder, executive director, Comox Valley Child Development Association. “It will allow us to take the next step in creating a Centre of Excellence for Autism in our community and more effectively respond to the needs of our children and families.”

The Comox Valley Child Development Association’s autism program was established in 2005 to provide evidence-based intervention services for children with a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in the Comox Valley. Behaviour consultants develop personalized programs for children and youth to encourage positive behavioural changes. The program also provides opportunities for students to improve social and academic skills and develop friendships through peer groups and summer day camps.

World Autism Awareness Day, is celebrated by organizations around the world to recognize children, youth and families living with ASD, help raise awareness and increase understanding of this complex and prevalent neurological disorder.

Quick Facts:

B.C. supports over 12,700 children and youth diagnosed with ASD and their families through autism funding programs.

Government provides more than $285 million annually for services that support children and youth with ASD and their families – including assessments, early intervention planning and education for students throughout British Columbia.

Learn More:

For more information about the Comox Valley Child Development Association, please visit: https://cvcda.ca/

For more information on ASD and supports for families, please visit:

http://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/managing-your-health/healthy-women-children/child-behaviour-development/special-needs/autism-spectrum-disorder