Mission

At the Embers for Access Foundation (EAF), we exist to close the gap for children with autism and their families — particularly those waiting for publicly funded services that may be years away. Across Ontario, families face some of the longest wait times in the country for core clinical supports. Research is clear: early intervention changes outcomes. We believe no child should lose precious developmental time because of a waitlist, a funding cap, or a system that wasn't built fast enough to keep up.

Embers was built to do something about that — right now, in community, with the partners and programs that are already here.

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Why this matters

Across Ontario, more than 60,000 children are currently on waitlists for core autism services including behaviour therapy, speech-language support, occupational therapy, and social skills programs. For some families, the wait stretches five to seven years. Research consistently shows that early access to intervention — ideally before age three — is strongly associated with improved outcomes in communication, social connection, and adaptive functioning. The early childhood brain has a high degree of neuroplasticity, making this window one of the most important in a child's development.

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When families are delayed, children lose time they cannot get back.

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What we offer

Through the RISE Program Initiative — Respite, Inclusion, Skills & Education — Embers coordinates access to integrated, community-based programming delivered across multiple sites in Durham Region, Scarborough, and West Toronto. In partnership with Mount Etna Child & Family Services and Zalik Academy, families may access:

• Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA) therapy — individual and group

• Respite programs — PA Days, school breaks, and summer camp

• Social skills and peer inclusion groups

• Parent coaching and caregiver education

• Education and structured learning support

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Every program is designed to build foundational skills, strengthen family relationships, and keep children connected to meaningful experiences while they wait for the system to catch up.

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Who we serve

Embers prioritizes families who are currently on OAP or private waitlists with no active therapy funding. Families with a total household income of $150,000 or less are prioritized for ongoing and individualized programs.

 

Some programs — including our Low-Cost Summer Camp and PA Day respite — are open to all eligible families on a first-come, first-served basis, regardless of income tier.

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To apply, children must have a confirmed autism diagnosis or a referral from a developmental paediatrician, or be actively in the assessment process.