Canada CARES

Welcome to CARES Across Canada, a transformative initiative designed to empower organizations in supporting caregivers of individuals on the autism spectrum. Our mission is to provide these caregivers with the tools, training, and resources they need to thrive, ensuring they can offer the best support to those in their care. By fostering resilience, promoting self-care, and facilitating skill-sharing, we aim to create a stronger, more supportive community across Canada.

About CARES

CARES is a rigorously developed, evidence-based caregiver support program spanning eight weeks, designed specifically to lighten the mental and emotional load experienced by caregivers. This program offers:

  • A nurturing environment for caregivers to acquire new skills, exchange experiences, and cultivate resilience.
  • A focus on self-care for caregivers, reinforcing the idea that caring for oneself is integral to effectively supporting others.
Learn more about CARES

Apply to bring CARES to your Organization

Eager to break new ground in supporting caregivers in your organization? Our grant program can provide substantial support, including:

  • A grant of $20,000 to establish the CARES program within your organization.
  • Intensive training (10+ hours) from our CARES Founders.
  • Extensive support throughout program delivery and companion workbooks for both staff and caregivers.

Selection Criteria: How We Choose Our Grant Recipients

Our selection process is designed to identify organizations that demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting caregivers of individuals with autism and a clear vision for implementing the CARES program. Successful applicants will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

  • Proven Experience: Demonstrated history of impactful support to families and caregivers within the autism community.

  • Implementation Capacity: Evidence of the organizational infrastructure and resources necessary to effectively deliver the CARES program, including suitable facilities, trained personnel, and outreach capabilities.

  • Community Impact: A clear plan for how the CARES program will address specific needs within your community, including expected outcomes and benefits for caregivers.

  • Innovative Approach: Creativity in program delivery and engagement with caregivers, including the use of technology, partnerships, or novel methodologies to enhance impact.

Grant Program Timeline

  • Application Opening: March 19, 2024
  • Application Deadline: May 31, 2024
  • Review Period: June 1 – June 20, 2024
  • Announcement of Recipients: Recipients will be notified by June 21, 2024

Join Us in Making a Difference: Apply Now

Don’t miss this opportunity to transform the way you support caregivers in your community. Apply for the CARES Across Canada grant today and take the first step towards empowering caregivers and enriching the lives of individuals on the autism spectrum. Remember, the application deadline is May 31. Let’s work together to create a future where every caregiver has the support, resources, and resilience they need to thrive.

If you have any questions about the application form or process please contact cares@saaac.org  

Step 1

Download and complete the application form.

Download

Step 2

Submit the completed form below.