Igniting change, empowering futures
Childhood doesn't wait for funding.
Embers for Access Foundation is a registered Canadian charity. We subsidise autism therapy, respite and camps for families stuck on Ontario waitlists, so children keep learning while the system catches up.
Why we exist
Across Ontario, families face some of the longest wait times in the country for core clinical supports. For some, the wait stretches five to seven years.
Research is consistent: early access changes outcomes. When families are delayed, children lose time they cannot get back.
Embers was built to do something about that now, in community, with the partners and programs that are already here.
The RISE Program
RISE, meaning Respite, Inclusion, Skills and Education, is our integrated community program model. Rather than offering a single service, it brings together a network of trusted partners to deliver four streams of support under one coordinated model.
Respite
PA Days, school breaks and summer camp. Structured group experiences that give families a break and give children somewhere good to be.
Inclusion
Community programming and meaningful peer connection, in the settings where children actually live, play and learn.
Skills
Social skills and peer inclusion groups, and applied behaviour analysis delivered individually or in groups through partner providers.
Education
Structured learning support, parent coaching and caregiver education, and alternative or hybrid schooling options.
Where programs run
Durham Region and Scarborough, with Kitchener-Waterloo from September 2026.
One of our founding partners is Mount Etna Child & Family Services, with locations in Toronto, Oshawa and Bowmanville. Additional partners are joining from urban, rural and Indigenous communities to ensure equitable access.
Ways to help
Donate
- Every donation goes toward subsidised therapy, respite and camp places for families who are waiting.
Volunteer
- Events, programming and camp days need people. No clinical background required.
Attend an event
- Fundraisers that are genuinely good days out, and that pay for programme places.
Partner with us
- Providers, businesses and community organisations who want to widen access.