Autism Society of the RMWB Faces Funding Crisis, Respite Program at Risk
FORT MCMURRAY, AB. — The Autism Society of the Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo is facing a $50,000 funding shortfall that could force the closure of its social respite care program by March 31, 2025.
The program, which has operated for six years, provides a safe, supportive space for neurodiverse and special needs children while giving caregivers essential breaks. It delivers over 25,000 hours of care annually but is now at risk due to the loss of a key grant from the United Way of Fort McMurray.
Executive Director Tina Delainey, and a founding member of the society, says despite reducing costs to a minimum, the funding gap remains.
“The program is a vital support system for both children and their families,” said Delainey. “Without it, many parents will struggle to balance work, caregiving, and their own well-being.”
Families are already feeling the strain. Resident and client Nicole Stagg, whose son benefits from the program, says it’s “one of the few places where he feels truly accepted.”
To prevent the closure, the Autism Society has launched community fundraising efforts, including a crowdsourcing campaign with government-matched donations for the first $5,000, and a 50/50 raffle.
Delainey remains hopeful the community will rally to save the program but warns that without new funding, services will be discontinued by the end of March.
For more information or to contribute, visit autismrmwb.org.