This page is updated regularly | Last updated: November 15, 2025
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Community Resources
ASK A SLP ABOUT AAC (AUGMENTATIVE and ALTERNATIVE COMMUNICATION) – Virtual Workshop
In this information session the Speech-Language Pathologist will be sharing about what augmentative communication is and how it can help with comprehension and as a means of expression, what types of AAC systems are available, the difference in AAC apps and suggestions for getting started with AAC. There will be an opportunity to ask questions about using augmentative communication.
Appropriate for: Parents and Caregivers
Presenter: Lorraine Otto, M.Sc., CCC, Speech Language Pathologist, (Reg. CASLPO) and Tess Farrington
Date: Tuesday, January 13, 2026
Time: 10 am to 11:00 pm
Register By: Jan 09, 2026
For Resource Support of SDRC please call: 519-741-1121
Resource Support at SDRC
SDRC offers Resource Support to families of children under the age of 18 years, who have an intellectual disability and/or autism spectrum disorder. It provides quick access to short-term support for as long as the client is eligible for developmental services. Resource Support is mainly through telephone contact, email, or scheduled appointments.
- Resource Support offers a variety of services to eligible clients and includes:
Providing information on a variety of supports and services (developmental services, community services, funding options, leisure/recreation, etc.) - Assisting with problem solving
- Facilitating referrals to other organizations/services
- Answering general questions regarding services and supports
- Helping assess strengths and needs
- Helping identify barriers to accessing services and supports
- Providing short-term emotional support
- Liaising with other service providers
The Resource Support Worker is not able to:
- Attend school meetings or medical appointments
- Assist with application forms
- Organize case conferences
- Develop service plans
- Provide ongoing, intensive support
- Act as a case manager
- Provide mediation/group facilitation
Who Can Access Services:
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- Children, youth, and families living with or suspected of having FASD
- Ages: Up to 18 years old, or up to 21 if still attending school
- Must reside in the Waterloo Region
Referral Process:
-
- Referrals can be made via Plexus
- Eligible referrers include:
- The individual or their legal guardian
- Extended family members
- Family physicians
- Agencies acting on behalf of the individual/family (with permission)
- Individuals aged 16+ must provide consent if they understand the implications of assessment/treatment
Support Offered:
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- Coordination and guidance from FASD Coordinators
- Resources for caregivers, health professionals, and social service providers
- Information and assistance regarding eligibility and services
Need Help or Have Questions?
Contact the FASD Coordinators at SDRC directly for clarification on eligibility or services for children under 18 at: plexusfasd@sunbeamcommunity.ca
They can also be found on Instagram and Twitter at – @Plexus Fasd Iike, follow, share and connect!
Referrals can be made here: Plexus Referral
sunbeam-centre.ontarionow.ca/self-referral/?aLanguage=
FASD Ontario Webinars
FASD Ontario has a resource page with past webinar recordings that cover a wide variety of topics within FASD including FASD and cannabis, FASD prevention, supporting parents raising children with FASD and more.
www.fasdinfotsaf.ca/webinars.
Emotional Regulation – Virtual Workshop
Upcoming Dates
Presenter: Jennifer Jacobs
Date: Wednesday, November 26, 2025
Time: 6 pm to 7 pm
Register by: November 21, 2025
Register online: www.sdrc.ca/workshops-and-training or email r.khanam@sunbeamcommunity.ca.
School Refusal – Virtual Workshop
Appropriate for: Parents and caregivers
Register online: www.sdrc.ca/workshops-and-training or email r.khanam@sunbeamcommunity.ca.
Upcoming dates:
Presenter: Denise Burke
Date: Monday, Dec 15, 2025
Time: 6 pm to 7 pm
Register By: December 12, 2025
Sunbeam Developmental Resource Centre (SDRC) hosts a variety of clinics. All clinics are 1 hour in length via Zoom, limited to a maximum of 10 participants (except the SLP clinic which is one-on-one) and include an opportunity for questions and discussion. Different eligibility criterias apply.
Some of our clinics are:
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- Ask A Behaviour Consultant Clinic
- Ask A Speech Language Pathologist Clinic
- Collaboration with Schools Clinic
- Intake Financial Clinic
- Speech Language Pathology Clinic
For specific information on each clinic and dates please visit: www.sdrc.ca/clinics. Call Rehana Khanam at 519-741-1121, ext. 2201 to register.
Groups at SDRC
Autism Social Skills Group
SDRC offers a 6-week Social Skills Group to children/youth with an autism spectrum disorder between the ages of 11 and 17 years. A referral is required as this is not a drop-in group. The Six-Week Group runs on Tuesday evenings from 5:00 pm-6:30 pm.
SDRC offers a Monthly Social Group for youth between the ages of 14 and 17 years with an autism spectrum disorder with no intellectual disability. Individuals must be able to be independent. The purpose of the group is to help individuals develop social skills. A referral is required as this is not a drop-in group.
Please call 519-741-1121 for more information about how to join.
The Weekly Mothers’ Support Group at SDRC
The Mothers’ Support Group is a 6-week group, providing the opportunity for mothers to discuss a range of topics related to parenting a child with an intellectual disability and/or autism. Topics include: understanding and sharing the diagnosis, grief and resilience, community resources, behavioural challenges and self-care. Guest speakers from the community and SDRC also contribute their expertise.
The group is a great way to connect with other mothers who understand your daily experience. It is a small group, for
6 – 10 members, and runs for 6 consecutive weeks.
Two times are offered:
– Wednesday evenings from 7:00 pm – 8:30 pm
– Thursday mornings from 10:00 am – 11:30 am
Groups are offered 2 – 3 times per year. Please call 519-741-1121 for more information about how to join.
The Monthly Mothers’ Group
Monthly Mothers’ groups of SDRC are offered at two different times:
Daytime: The last Friday of the month
from 10:00 am to 11:30 am
Evening: The last Tuesday of the month
from 7:00 pm to 8:30 pm
The purpose of the group is to connect with other mothers, share ideas, learn more about community resources and get support. Speakers are often invited to share information on topics of interest to group members. Some of the topics discussed in the past year were: anxiety, school issues and grief.
Please call 519-741-1121 for more information about how to join.
The Monthly Fathers’ Support Group
The Fathers’ Support group is open to fathers in Waterloo Region who have a child (of any age) with an intellectual disability and/or autism. The group meets monthly.
It is a great opportunity for dads to discuss a wide range of topics related to parenting a child with an intellectual disability and/or autism. Fathers learn from guest speakers as well as from each other, sharing wisdom, understanding and a chance to talk to other dads who “get it”.
Some of the topics discussed in the past year were: mindfulness, sharing the diagnosis and advocating for your child.
The Fathers Support Group meets on the
3rd Tuesday of the month from 6:30 – 8:00 pm.
Please call 519-741-1121 for more information about how to join.
Creating Your Individualized Housing and Support Plan – Offered by DSO
Free Virtual Workshop Series
This three (3) session workshop series is designed to help you begin creating an individualized housing and support plan for you or a family member with a developmental disability.
DATES
Session 1: Tuesday, Nov 25, 2025
Session 2: Tuesday, Dec 2, 2025
Session 3: Tuesday, Dec 9, 2025
TIME: 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm ET
NOTE: It is recommended you attend all three sessions as the content of each session is connected. Click on this link to register for this virtual workshop series.
Recreation and Wellness Programs of SCDS
The team introduces the monthly Recreation and Wellness Calendar of Events, which contains information and details for all group activities at Sunbeam. It can be found on the Sunbeam Community website here:
www.sunbeamcommunity.ca/recreation-wellness-program
These programs are eligible for Passport funding for adults 18 and older, and are also available as fee-for-service options for children aged 12 and up.
For more information and registration, please contact the Recreation & Wellness department via phone: 519-893-6200 (ext. 1211) or email: recreation@sunbeamcommunity.ca
DSO Central West
DSO CWR is funded by the Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services, is one of nine DSO’s in Ontario and is administered by Sunbeam Community and Developmental Services.
What services can you apply for?
There are many different services offered across the province. Some of the services that may be available in your area include:
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- housing supports
- respite for your caregivers
- supports to help you take part in the community
- specialized and clinical supports
- Adult Protective Service Worker Program
- Passport program
Please check their website, www.dsocwr.ca, for more information.
Community Resources
We want to provide an informative resource that will be a useful guide for you. Sunbeam Developmental Resource Centre does not necessarily endorse the information contained in this Update. The purpose is to provide information to the community. It is up to the reader to decide what is useful for them. We make every effort to ensure that our information is accurate and relevant. We apologize for any errors or omissions that occur.
AccessOAP
Intake Organization to connect you with autism programs and services available to your family through the Ontario Autism Program.
If you have questions about the New Access-OAP, how to create an account or the Ontario Autism Program visit these websites:
Autism Ontario Calendar of Upcoming Events
Autism Ontario helps all individuals with autism and families in their communities have access to meaningful supports, information, and connections so they are equitably and seamlessly supported across their life course.
www.autismontario.com/events
Groups and Workshops at Camino Wellbeing + Mental Health
Groups are ongoing sessions, typically meeting weekly for about 8 weeks. Workshops are one-time events focused on specific topics.
Please visit their website at www.caminowellbeing.ca/groups-workshops for details.
To register for any group or workshop, please email groups@caminowellbeing.ca or call 519-743-6333.
Disability Tax Credit (DTC) Webinar by Plan Institute
Topics will cover:
-What the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) is, and how much it is worth
-Other benefits of the DTC, including the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) and Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP)
-Eligibility criteria
-How to apply, including top tips
-What happens after you submit the DTC application
Get access to expert advice from a DTC specialist during the 45-minute Q&A period.
Tuesday, November 25, 7 pm to 8:45 pm ET
Interpreted DTC sessions:
Arabic Interpreted DTC Webinar: Saturday, November 15, 2025, from 1 pm to 3 pm ET
ندوة عبر الإنترنت حول الائتمان الضريبي لذوي الإعاقة، العربية: السبت 15 نوفمبر 2025 من الساعة 10 صباحًا حتى 12 ظهرًا بتوقيت المحيط الهادئ
Farsi Interpreted DTC Webinar: Saturday November 22, 2025, from 1 pm to 3 pm ET
ترجمه ی فارسی وبیناراعتبار مالیاتی معلولیت: شنبه 22 نوامبر 2025 از 10 صبح تا 12 ظهر به وقت پست
Intro to the RDSP Webinar
The Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) is a made-in-Canada, long-term savings plan designed specifically for people with disabilities. Whether you recently opened an RDSP or are thinking of starting one, P4P’s Introduction to the RDSP webcast is a great place to learn more. Join for one of their fall sessions below to gain valuable insights and guidance. You will gain: An understanding of how you could receive up to $90,000 from the federal government in bonds and grants, insights on opening an RDSP, withdrawals and taxation, knowledge of the latest updates and changes to the RDSP, tips & advice on free resources to consult for additional information.
Region of Waterloo’s Resources on
Children with Exceptional or Special Needs
Some children are born with exceptional needs or an exceptional need is identified later as the child grows. Region of Waterloo’s website is a great resource for parents and caregivers of Children with Exceptional or Special Needs. You can find information on the following programs/services on their website at this link:
www.regionofwaterloo.ca/en/health-and-wellness/children-with-special-needs
Infant and Child Development
Infant and Child Development offers services, assistance, and support to families of young children who may be experiencing developmental concerns, delays or disabilities.
A range of services are available to children up to age five who are not attending licensed child care or kindergarten.
The Special Needs Access Point (SNAP) is a single access point for children up to 12 years who are currently attending or seeking to enroll in a licensed child care program in Waterloo Region. SNAP accepts referrals from child care programs, parents, and community agencies.
Finding Licensed Services for Children with Special Needs
Please visit the Special Needs Resourcing Collaborative website where you can find more information about referrals, what supports are available, and resources for both parents and early learning child care centers.
Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities
If you are a parent or guardian who is caring for a child with a severe disability you may be able to get financial support through the Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities (ACSD) Program. This program provides financial support for low-income and moderate-income families to cover some of the extra costs of caring for a child who has a severe disability.
ACSD and SSAH applications can be completed online. Below are the links for these two applications:
ACSD: https://www.tpon.gov.on.ca/indiv/#/acsd
SSAH:
www.ontario.ca/page/special-services-home
Special Services at Home: Families who are caring for a child with a developmental and/or physical disability can apply to the Special Services at Home (SSAH) program to get funding. Please visit the website to learn more.
Psychosis Information Sessions by Parents for Children’s Mental Health (PCMH)
Are you a parent or caregiver with lived or living experience raising a young person with diagnosed or possible psychosis? Are you looking to connect with others who truly understand? Need a comfortable space to ask questions or find help? Join one of PCMH’s upcoming information sessions to learn more about the new Psychosis chapter launching in the new year. These sessions will introduce Parents for Children’s Mental Health (PCMH), feature insights from a peer supporter with lived experience, and share how this new group can support you.
November 25, 12 – 1 pm – https://cmho.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4f9a3cac11ef0232c90a6dc92&id=e533a9257d&e=251508ce27
November 26, 7 – 8 pm – https://cmho.us19.list-manage.com/track/click?u=4f9a3cac11ef0232c90a6dc92&id=cc30812e7e&e=251508ce27
It’s Flu Shot Time!
The Resource Library of Surrey Place
- Tools and Templates
- Articles and
- Recorded Events.
Some of the article topics are ‘Applying for Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities’, ‘Managing Stress, Anxiety and Depression: Tips for Parents and Caregivers’, ‘Anxiety and Depression in Children with Autism: How to Recognize the Signs and Get Help’, ‘How to Make Your Home Safe for Children with Challenging Behaviours’ etc.
Please check the Resource Library page on their website at this link Resources – Surrey Place.
School-Issue Parent Support Group of WRFN
This peer-led group provides support, advice and a safe environment for parents who have questions or concerns about school issues affecting their children with special needs. The WRFN (Waterloo Region Family Network) School Issues Support Group meets on the last Wednesday of each month during the school year. For more information, please contact Lisa Cook at lisa.cook@wrfn.info.
Barrier-Free Benefits
Inclusion Canada’s Barrier-Free Benefits program offers free, one-on-one help with disability benefits. Their Navigators will help you apply for benefits like the Disability Tax Credit (DTC), including help with the medical certificate, the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP), the new Canada Disability Benefit (CDB). They can also provide general information and advice on filing your taxes and links to free services. Please check their website for more information on this new program: www.inclusioncanada.ca/page/barrier-free-benefits.
Partners 4 Planning (P4P)
Partners for Planning is a national non-profit organization that supports people with developmental disabilities and their families to be proactive in planning for the future. Their free webcast series will help people with developmental disabilities understand various components of Disability Tax Credit (DTC) and Registered Disability Savings Program (RDSP).
Register here, pick the topic and date from their menu at: www.planningnetwork.ca
Special Education Resource Guide of Community Living Ontario (CLO)
Navigating Special Education in Ontario
A Guide for Students, Parents and Caregivers
This guidebook is intended to provide information for parents, caregivers, and community organizations that support students with disabilities. No matter your role, access to information is key when advocating for students throughout their learning journey.
Please check CLO’s website to see the Special Education Resource Guide
Child and Youth Wellbeing Fair
Date: November 24, 2025
Time: 4 pm to 8 pm
Location: 2001 University Ave E, Waterloo. Forbes Hall, Rim Park.
To register email at infor@wrfn.info
Adaptive Vehicles Join Shared E-Bike/E-Scooter Program
Neuron will be offering the service free of charge to celebrate the launch of the program.
Residents can book the four upright tricycles and two handcycle tricycles 24-hours ahead. Neuron will deliver and pick up vehicles throughout the tri-cities. Drop-off/pick-up locations do not need to be the same. Vehicles are owned and maintained by Neuron.
The Region of Waterloo and Cities of Cambridge, Kitchener and Waterloo renewed their agreement with Neuron Mobility for 2025, with shared e-scooters and e-bikes having returned in April. For more information about the adaptive vehicle program, visit: rideneuron.com/adaptive.
Inclusive Programs of City of Kitchener
City of Kitchener has introduced some Inclusive Recreational Programs this fall.
To register for the programs below please visit a Kitchener Community Centre, swimming pool or their website at www.kitchener.ca/ActiveNet.
You can also call the program registration line at 519-741-2907, Mon-Fri, 8:30am to 5pm.
All-Access Hangout
All-Access hangout is for young adults 14 to 21 years of age, who have special need and/or disability and who do not require one to one support.
Participants will participate in a variety of activities including sports, crafts, games, cooking, and more, in a supportive environment that meets the sensory, emotional and physical needs. Activities are designed with the interests and abilities of participants and will encourage building friendships, social skills and life skills. Program ratio is 1 leader to 3 participants.
Time: 1:15 – 2:45pm
Date: Sundays, Sept 21 – Nov 23
Location: Country Hills Community Centre
Age: 14-21 years
Cost: $85.32
Course Code: 191076
Sensitive Santa Visits
Join us for an intimate gathering where individuals and families can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus in a sensory friendly environment. You will also have an opportunity to explore activity stations and take home a craft. A quiet room will be available for sensory breaks.
To avoid long line ups to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, you will be provided with a window of time to meet Santa; this info will be shared with you 5 days prior to the event. A picture of you and Santa will be emailed to you after the event.
Time: 3 time slots available at 9:30am, 10:30am, and 11:30am.
Date: November 29
Locations: Forest Heights Community Centre
Age: All Ages
Cost: $10 for the group (max 5 people)
Course Codes: 194264, 194267, 194268
The Hangout Café at the KW Habilitation is an inviting and comfortable place where everyone is welcome.
What to Expect: No purchase necessary, but they’ll have coffee, tea, other drinks, and snacks to buy.
Hours: Tuesdays and Thursdays 8:30 am – 11:00 am
KW Habilitation, 99 Ottawa St S. Kitchener, ON N2G 3S8
To better serve our community, we have moved to an online format in the fall of 2025.