Our daughter was recently diagnosed with Autism. Had she been diagnosed prior to March 31, 2021 she would have been able to apply for one time funding. After March 31, 2021 she has to apply for the needs based funding which is being launched. As of now, they have only invited 600 children to participate in this new funding rollout which leaves everyone diagnosed after that date falling through the cracks in between the old program and the new program. 

Everywhere you turn, it is stressed how early intervention is key to having a highly functioning child on the spectrum. With suggested therapies of up to 15 hours per week at $50-$140/hr fees it is nearly impossible for most parents to pay these costs out of pocket. 

Under the current framework it is up to 6 months wait for a diagnosis and then up to two years wait for funding. Two years where our children could be in therapy and progressing instead of regressing. 

Our daughter currently interacts with us and engages. It is imperative that she receives treatment in a timely manner to keep this up and improve her skills to prevent regression. 

Please take a moment to sign this petition so that all children have access to the programs they require to function on a daily basis