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The Saskatchewan NDP says the provincial government has not delivered a 2016 campaign commitment to provide substantially higher support for children with autism. Families say current funding is insufficient for therapies, respite care, home adaptations and other essential expenses, while benefits end at age 12. The government says it is reviewing the program and its long-term financial sustainability.
As the cost of everyday living keeps climbing, families and people feeling the pressure of increased expenses are facing some impossible choices. In light of this, the NDP is highlighting a 2016 Sask.
Party campaign promise — which the NDP says the government failed to deliver on. The Official Opposition said the Sask. Party promised to provide $15,000-$18,000 to children with autism spectrum disorder under six as well as $5,000 in individualized funding to children under 18.
Now in 2026 the provincial government outlines that its Autism Spectrum Disorder Individualized Funding provides annual benefits up to $8,000 for children aged five and under, and up to $6,000 for children aged six to 11. For single mother Vanessa Rodriguez, the funding isn’t enough. Rodriguez receives $6,000 a year for her nine-year-old son Jasper who is autistic and non-verbal.
However, she has already spent $12,000 out-of-pocket once the six grand ran out. This was to cover the cost of respite, therapies, pull-ups, and adjusting her home to accommodate Jasper’s sensory needs. The lights in Rodriguez’s home are voice controlled in order to quickly change the levels of sensory input for Jasper. Under the current program, funding runs out at age 12 which is only a few years away for Jasper.
“At age 12, the funding runs out, but autism does not. Jasper will still need care, and I will still have to figure out how to pay for it,” Rodriguez explained to media during an event at her home. The NDP says the Sask. Party’s commitment back in 2016 would have provided families like Vanessa’s to receive early intervention and support to help offset some costs.
The Government has stated that the Ministry of Social Services is reviewing the Autism Spectrum Disorder Individualized Funding program, “which will guide future management plans and support financial sustainability. ”
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