Disability Resources (by Province)
We have included a list of resources for those in the Disability community. They include funding and scholarship programs and organizations as well as Service organizations such as the CNIB. If you know of a service or non-profit that you do not see here, please email rob@canasstech.com so we can include it.
British Columbia
The Alliance for Equality of Blind Canadians (AEBC) is a national nonprofit charitable organization whose primary focus is advocating to improve the lives of blind, deafblind and partially sighted Canadians and only members of this community hold positions on our board and committees. AEBC connects with members through local chapters or its affiliate and nationally, providing programs that include peer mentorship, training, public education, and annual postsecondary scholarships. For more information, please visit www.blindcanadians.ca.
The ALS Society of Canada - Supporting care, funding research and spreading awareness of ALS.
1-800-708-3228
Assistive Technology British Columbia - ATBC supports BC residents with permanent disabilities in obtaining the assistive technology they need for overcoming barriers to employment and post-secondary education.
604-264-8295
Disability Alliance BC - Their mission is to support people, with all disabilities, to live with dignity, independence and as equal and full participants in the community. We champion issues impacting the lives of people with disabilities through our direct services, community partnerships, advocacy, research and publications.
604-872-1278
BC Center for Ability - The BC Centre for Ability provides community-based services that enhance the quality of life for children, youth and adults with disabilities and their families in ways that facilitate and build competencies and foster inclusion in all aspects of life. 604-451-5511
BC Paraplegic Foundation - Focus on funding for those with disabilities from spinal cord injuries.
BC People First - BC People First is a nonprofit society that helps people learn to become self-advocates and helps self-advocates express their needs/wants to government panels and public forums. They also offer training and services and membership is free!
BC Rehab Foundation - Focus on funding for people with different types physical disabilities.
Blind Beginnings - Blind Beginning’s mission is to inspire children and youth who are blind or partially sighted and their families through diverse programs, experiences, counselling and peer support, and opportunities to create fulfilling lives.
Canadian Disability Resources Society - To promote health by providing recycled medical equipment to needy persons with physical disabilities, and to promote health by developing educational materials focused on disability issues and resources for persons with physical disabilities and making them available to the public. 888-909-8974
Communication Assistance for Youth and Adults - The goal of CAYA is to ensure that eligible individuals have access to the communication tools and professional support to enable them to create an adult life to the best of their abilities.
604-261-9450
CKNW Orphans Fund - Established by radio station CKNW, they are dedicated to promoting the health and welfare of physically, mentally challenged and disadvantaged children in BC communities.
1-877-399-9898
CNIB - The primary source of support, information and most importantly, hope, for all Canadians affected by vision loss.
The Children's Wish Foundation of Canada - Works with the community to provide children living with high-risk, life threatening illnesses the opportunity to realize their most heartfelt wish.
604-299-2241
BC Elks of Canada - An association of Elks lodges in British Columbia supporting and coordinating fraternal and charitable endeavors of its members.
1-888-367-3557
The Cerebral Palsy Association of BC - Supports individuals, families, caregivers, professionals, students and other organizations whose lives are touched by Cerebral Palsy.
1-800-663-0004
Kin Canada Association of Kinsmen and Kinettes - The Association of Kinsmen, Kinette and Kin clubs is proud to be an all-Canadian service organization made up of outstanding community volunteers. From coast to coast, members are enhancing quality of life in their communities by promoting service, fellowship, positive values and national pride.
1-800-742-5546
Military Police Fund for Blind Children - The Military Police Fund for Blind Children specializes in assisting visually impaired Canadian children under the age of 21. We will strive to ensure the process is conducted in a professional and unobtrusive manner, focusing on the assistance to your child.
250-363-5526
Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada - Focus on funding for those affected by Multiple Sclerosis. Contact The Society for more information about their equipment recylcing program funding considerations.
Neil Squire Society - Uses technology, knowledge and passion to empower Canadians with Physical Disabilities.
604-473-9363
President's Choice Children's Charity - Dedicated to helping children who are physically or developmentally challenged. Their aim is to remove some of the obstacles that make everyday living extremely difficult and make it a little easier for the child or family to cope with the disability. They provide direct financial assistance in the purchase of mobility equipment, environmental modifications, physical therapy and more.
1-866-996-9918
Richmond Center for Disability - Purpose is to give people with disabilities the opportunity to participate in the community to the fullest extent of their ability and to improve their quality of life by working for – Inclusion, Independence & Empowerment.
604-232-2404
Rotary International - Provides humanitarian service, encourages high ethical standards in all vocations and helps build goodwill and peace in the world.
Special Education Technology- SET-BC is a Ministry of Education program that works in partnership with all BC school districts, including Group 1 and 2 independent schools. SET-BC lends assistive technologies to districts for students’ use and provides consultation, training, resources, and support for the educational use of these technologies.
604-261-9450
Sunshine Dreams for Kids - Helps the dreams of kids with severe disabilities as well as life threatening illnesses come true.
1-800-461-7935
Tetra Society of North America - Tetra builds innovative solutions for people with physical disabilities to overcome environmental barriers, providing greater independence, quality of life, and inclusion. 604-688-6464
Veterans Affairs Canada - Focus on funding for veterans across Canada including many types of rehabilitation equipment including wheelchairs and scooters, ramps, and aids to daily living.
Victoria Disability Resource Centre - The Victoria Disability Resource Centre is a not-for-profit organization that helps people with all types of disabilities lead independent lives - under their control and by their choice.
250-595-0044
Wavefront Centre for Communication Accessibility - Strives to offer high quality services to Deaf, Deafened and Hard of Hearing individuals through innovative products, services, and programs that help to promote accessibility equal to that of the hearing public.
604-736-7391 or 1-888-736-7391
Alberta
Ability4Good - The mandate of the Ability4Good is the provision of quality asset-based services for persons of all ages that are vulnerable or have special needs in the areas of assistive technology, early childhood development, employment, housing, education, seniors issues, community inclusion, community development and independent living both within Canada and internationally. Ability4Good provides all of the clinical services formerly offered by the Ability Society for those with special needs.
403-262-9445
Alberta Society for the Visually Impaired
ASVI is a registered non-profit society with northern and southern Alberta chapters, and a provincial council. ASVI is also actively involved in advocacy efforts with various levels of government and provides educational and social opportunities for families and service providers.
info@asviedmonton.org
Disability Related Employment Support (DRES) - Educational support involves assistance to learners preparing for employment through post-secondary education, basic skill training, academic upgrading, or labour market programs. Assistive technology includes the purchase and set-up of technology supports required to alleviate, reduce or remove a barrier to education, training or employment. This can include software programs.
Cerebral Palsy Association of Alberta - CPA supports individuals, families, caregivers, professionals, students and other organizations whose lives are touched by Cerebral Palsy. The Funding Request Program is to assist Albertans with cerebral palsy achieve a higher quality of life.
1-888-477-8030
The Elks and Royal Purple Fund for Children - To provide financial assistance for any purpose that is for the good and welfare of a person prior to attaining his/her 19th birthday when sponsored by a Lodge, and for charitable programs addressing the needs of children with hearing and speech disorders.
1-888-843-3557
Alberta Aids to Daily Living (AADL) - The AADL program helps Albertans with a long-term disability, chronic illness or terminal illness to maintain their independence at home, in lodges or group homes by providing financial assistance to buy medical equipment and supplies. An assessment by a health care professional determines the equipment and supplies that an Albertan can receive through this program.
1-877-644-9992
The Children's Ability Fund - Funds are used to purchase specialized equipment for people with disabilities to assist with the everyday tasks that others may take for granted.
780-454-9191
The Children's Wish Foundation of Canada - Working with the community to provide children living with high-risk, life threatening illnesses the opportunity to realize their most heartfelt wish – funding for technology is available.
403-265-9039
Easter Seals - Equipment and Support Services, this important program provides Albertans with disabilities and special needs and their families with equipment not available through government or other community resources.
1-877-732-7837
Kin Canada Association of Kinsmen and Kinettes - The Association of Kinsmen, Kinette and Kin clubs is proud to be an all-Canadian service organization made up of outstanding community volunteers. From coast to coast, members are enhancing quality of life in their communities by promoting service, fellowship, positive values and national pride.
1-800-742-5546
Military Police Fund for Blind Children - The Military Police Fund for Blind Children specializes in assisting visually impaired Canadian children under the age of 21. We will strive to ensure the process is conducted in a professional and unobtrusive manner, focusing on the assistance to your child.
250-363-5526
Neil Squire Society - Uses technology, knowledge and passion to empower Canadians with Physical Disabilities.
306-781-6023
President's Choice Children's Charity - Dedicated to helping children who are physically or developmentally challenged. Their aim is to remove some of the obstacles that make everyday living extremely difficult and make it a little easier for the child or family to cope with the disability. They provide direct financial assistance in the purchase of mobility equipment, environmental modifications, physical therapy and more.
1-877-525-4762
Rotary International - Providing humanitarian service, encouraging high ethical standards in all vocations and helping to build goodwill and peace in the world.
Sunshine Dreams for Kids - Helps the dreams of kids with severe disabilities as well as life threatening illnesses come true.
1-800-461-7935
Tetra Society of North America - Tetra builds innovative solutions for people with physical disabilities to overcome environmental barriers, providing greater independence, quality of life, and inclusion. 604-688-6464
Variety Charity - Organization who raises money and distribute grants to families of Alberta children who have exceptional needs.
403-228-6168
Veterans Affairs Canada - Focus on funding for veterans across Canada including many types of rehabilitation equipment including wheelchairs and scooters, ramps, and aids to daily living.
Alberta-NWT The Royal Canadian Legion - The Service Bureau of The Royal Canadian Legion is available to support and assist disabled veterans receive the disability services they need.
403-284-1161
Children's Ability Fund - Funds are used to purchase specialized equipment for people with disabilities to assist them with the everyday tasks that others may take for granted.
780-454-9191 ext 225
Lions of Alberta Foundation - Lions Club will assist with the personal purchase of assistive technology for individuals with a visual impairment or blindness.
Alberta Supports - Helps compile family and social support options for Albertans. 877-644-9992.
Manitoba
Cerebral Palsy Association of Manitoba - CPA supports individuals, families, caregivers, professionals, students and other organizations whose lives are touched by Cerebral Palsy. The Funding Request Program is to assist Manitobans with cerebral palsy achieve a higher quality of life.
204-982-4842
The Elks and Royal Purple Fund for Children - To provide financial assistance for any purpose that is for the good and welfare of a person prior to attaining his/her 19th birthday when sponsored by a Lodge, and for charitable programs addressing the needs of children with hearing and speech disorders.
1-888-843-3557 ext 231
CNIB - The primary source of support, information and most importantly, hope, for all Canadians affected by vision loss.
Manitoba Paraplegia Foundation Inc. - To assist persons with spinal cord injuries and other physical disabilities to achieve independence, self-reliance and full community participation.
1-800-720-4933
Kin Canada Association of Kinsmen and Kinettes - The Association of Kinsmen, Kinette and Kin clubs is proud to be an all-Canadian service organization made up of outstanding community volunteers. From coast to coast, members are enhancing quality of life in their communities by promoting service, fellowship, positive values and national pride.
1-800-742-5546
Military Police Fund for Blind Children - The Military Police Fund for Blind Children specializes in assisting visually impaired Canadian children under the age of 21. We will strive to ensure the process is conducted in a professional and unobtrusive manner, focusing on the assistance to your child.
204-833-2500 ext 2633
Neil Squire Society - Uses technology, knowledge and passion to empower Canadians with Physical Disabilities.
306-781-6023
President's Choice Children's Charity - Dedicated to helping children who are physically or developmentally challenged. Their aim is to remove some of the obstacles that make everyday living extremely difficult and make it a little easier for the child or family to cope with the disability. They provide direct financial assistance in the purchase of mobility equipment, environmental modifications, physical therapy and more.
1-877-525-4762
Rotary International - Providing humanitarian service, encouraging high ethical standards in all vocations and helping to build goodwill and peace in the world.
Sunshine Dreams for Kids -Helps the dreams of kids with severe disabilities as well as life threatening illnesses come true.
1-800-461-7935
Variety Manitoba Charity - Organization who raises money and distribute grants to families of children in Manitoba who have exceptional needs.
204-982-1050
A Child's Voice Foundation - Kids Life-Line is a vital program of A Child’s Voice Foundation that extends a helping hand when all other resources have been exhausted and there is nowhere else to turn. This unique program strives to provide a onetime fulfillment, of a necessary product or service that will enhance a child’s quality of life and is not otherwise provided by healthcare plans, levels of government or other organizations.
1-888-837-3352
The SMD Assistive Technology Support Program - People looking for funding assistance to purchase assistive technology can now turn to SMD for help.
204-975-3033
Health Sciences Centre - Winnipeg - The Rehabilitation Engineering department, located in Winnipeg's Health Sciences Centre, assists clients to gain the highest possible level of independence through the use of orthotic, electronic, mechanical, and assistive technology devices.
204-787-2202
Rehabilitation Centre for Children - Providing services for the specific needs of children with physical and developmental disabilities.
204-452-4311
Employment and Income Assistance (EIA) - EIA is a provincial government administered program to assist in meeting basic personal and family needs. A person with a disability may receive additional supports to support daily living.
204-945-2177
Veterans Affairs Canada - Focus on funding for veterans across Canada including many types of rehabilitation equipment including wheelchairs and scooters, ramps, and aids to daily living.
The Lions Foundation of Manitoba & Northwestern Ontario - Grants funding to purchase specialized equipment for adults and children with physical disabilities.
1-800-552-6820
WarAmps - Jumpstart Program - JUMPSTART gives children with multiple amputations (Super Champs) who are enrolled in CHAMP a head start on tomorrow by providing computer systems, educational software, adaptive technology and training at an early age. Cliff Chadderton calls the computer “the great equalizer.” An early start is the first step towards computer literacy and a future where computer knowledge will unlock the door to employment.
1-800-250-3030
Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada - Manitoba Division - Special Assistance Program - provides financial assistance to those with MS to help with the cost of "assistive devices or home adaptations." This fund can be used once per year for up to $300.
1-800-268-7582
Saskatchewan
The ALS Society of Canada - Supporting care, funding research and spreading awareness of ALS.
306-949-4100
CNIB - The primary source of support, information and most importantly, hope, for all Canadians affected by vision loss.
The Children's Wish Foundation of Canada - Works with the community to provide children living with high-risk, life threatening illnesses the opportunity to realize their most heartfelt wish.
306-955-0511
Elks of Canada - The Elks & Royal Purple Fund for Children: To provide financial assistance for any purpose whotsoever that is for the good and welfare of a person resident in Canada prior to attaining their 19th birthday.
1-888-843-3557
Saskatchewan Cerebral Palsy Association - Supports individuals, families, caregivers, professionals, students and other organizations whose lives are touched by Cerebral Palsy.
1-800-363-2807
Kin Canada Association of Kinsmen and Kinettes - The Association of Kinsmen, Kinette and Kin clubs is proud to be an all-Canadian service organization made up of outstanding community volunteers. From coast to coast, members are enhancing quality of life in their communities by promoting service, fellowship, positive values and national pride.
1-800-742-5546
Military Police Fund for Blind Children - The Military Police Fund for Blind Children specializes in assisting visually impaired Canadian children under the age of 21. We will strive to ensure the process is conducted in a professional and unobtrusive manner, focusing on the assistance to your child.
250-363-5526
Neil Squire Society - Uses technology, knowledge and passion to empower Canadians with Physical Disabilities.
306-781-6023
President's Choice Children's Charity - Dedicated to helping children who are physically or developmentally challenged. Their aim is to remove some of the obstacles that make everyday living extremely difficult and make it a little easier for the child or family to cope with the disability. They provide direct financial assistance in the purchase of mobility equipment, environmental modifications, physical therapy and more.
1-877-525-4762
Rotary International - Provides humanitarian service, encourages high ethical standards in all vocations and helps build goodwill and peace in the world.
Saskatchewan Aids to Independent Living Program (SAIL) - Provides benefits that assist people with physical disabilities achieve a more active and independent lifestyle.
306-787-7121
Saskatchewan Brain Injury Association - Provides support and service free of charge to individuals and families who are living with the effects of acquired brain injury.
1-888-373-1555
Saskatchewan Abilities Council - Dedicated to providing programs and services to people with disabilities in Saskatchewan.
306-653-1694
Sunshine Dreams for Kids - Helps the dreams of kids with severe disabilities as well as life threatening illnesses come true.
1-800-461-7935
Veterans Affairs Canada - Focus on funding for veterans across Canada including many types of rehabilitation equipment including wheelchairs and scooters, ramps, and aids to daily living.
Workforce Development for Persons with Disabilities - Provides funding to assist adults with disabilities to prepare for, secure and maintain employment.
Ontario
March of Dimes Assistive Devices Program - March of Dimes Canada Assistive Devices Program assists adults with physical disabilities who are in financial need to purchase assistive devices that increase their mobility and functional independence.
Assistive Devices Program - If you have a long-term physical disability, you can get help paying for equipment and supplies when you qualify for the Assistive Devices Program.
Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities - If you are a parent caring for a child with a severe disability, you may be able to receive financial support through the Assistance for Children with Severe Disabilities Program.
Quebec
Quebec Society for Disabled Children - Since 1930, the Quebec Society for Disabled Children has been accompanying youngsters living with a disability to help make their dreams come true. It also assists parents in their efforts to provide care, attention, and support for their child.
Yukon
Capability Assessment & Accommodation Program (CAAP) - This program helps organizations to provide assessments, services and supports for developing workplace accommodations for individuals with a disability.
Individual Training & Supports Program (ITSP) - This program supports persons with disabilities who need training to gain or maintain employment and provides personal supports to accommodate a disability.
Manufacturers
- Ablenet
- Acoustic Magic
- Aftershokz
- AI Squared
- Anthro
- Attainment Company
- Bones
- Canadialog
- Chester Creek Technologies
- Code Factory
- Compusult
- Cricksoft
- Daedalus Technologies
- Dancing Dots
- Duxbury Systems
- Enabling Technologies
- Enhanced Vision Systems
- Franklin Electronics
- Greystone Digital
- GW Micro
- Harpo
- HIMS
- Humanware
- Index Braille
- Infogrip
- Inspiration
- Interpretype
- IRTI
- Karlen Communications
- K-NFB Reading Technology
- Kurzweil Education
- Livescribe
- Madentec
- Micwil
- Next Generation Technologies
- Nuance
- Optelec
- Origin Intruments
- Penny and Giles
- Perkins School
- Populus Furniture
- Prentke Romich Company
- RJ Cooper
- Saltillo
- Serotek
- Shinano Kenshi Corporation
- Sight Enhancement Systems
- Speechware
- Strategic Transitions
- TextHelp
- Tool Factory
- Traxsys
- Viewplus
- Vision Cue
- Viziflex