New fund aimed at helping Nova Scotia families with autistic children

Nova Scotians who have a child with autism now have access to some financial assistance through the province.

Announced yesterday, the new Autism Family Support Fund allows lower-income families with an autistic child 16 years of age or younger to apply for up to $3,000 in support.

To qualify, a family’s income must be below maximums listed in the fund guidelines, which can be found on the IWK Health’s website.

“This fund will support lower-income families and reduce some of the care needs for their children with an autism diagnosis,” says Cynthia Carroll, head of Autism Nova Scotia in a release. “It’s another step towards better supporting families and caregivers across the province who manage the ongoing care of their autistic loved ones.”

The fund is geared at helping with expenses like safety equipment, education materials, training and more.