Funding & Support Resources

Everyone belongs at Purple Carrots! We’re committed to making our programs reachable for kids ages 9–12, as well as teens and adults up to 45. We know that trying something new—whether it’s acting, improv, or creative expression—can feel big, and financial barriers shouldn’t stand in the way. That’s why this page shares a guide to funding options that many families in our community use to join in, get creative, and connect with others while having a whole lot of fun.

Passport Program (ON)

Passport is a program that helps adults 18 years or older with a developmental disability to participate in their communities and live as independently as possible. It also helps caregivers of an adult with a developmental disability take a break from their caregiving responsibilities.

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Special Services at Home (ON)

The Special Services at Home (SSAH) program helps families taking care of a child with a developmental and/or physical disability. It provides funding to buy services and supports that help parents with caring for their child, or that support the child to join activities at home and in the community.

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Children and Youth with Special Needs (CYSN) Services (BC)

A variety of services for children and youth with support needs (CYSN) and their families are available across the province. You may have additional options for how these services are delivered to you if you live in one of four areas piloting a new approach to CYSN services. These areas are in and around Kelowna, Prince Rupert, Terrace and Smithers.

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Autism Funding Unit (BC)

Funding assists with the cost of getting support. Autism funding helps pay for eligible services or supports that promote skill development for children living with autism.

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Purple Carrots Payment Plans

For families needing a more flexible runway, our team is ready to collaborate on a payment structure that aligns with your cash flow. Reach out anytime at payments@purplecarrots.ca to explore options that keep your experience moving forward without added stress.

Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) for Children (ON)

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 ACSD. This program provides financial support for eligible families to cover some of the extra costs of caring for a child who has a severe disability.

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Ontario Autism Program

The Ontario Autism Program (OAP) offers support to families of children and youth on the autism spectrum.

Children and youth who have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) by a qualified professional are eligible for the program. Children receive services and supports until the age of 18.

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The Purple Stage (ON)

The Purple Stage is a professional neurodiverse theatre company. It’s a space for Purple Carrots alumni to take their work to the next level!
By creating original performances in an extended rehearsal process, The Purple Stage provides meaningful job opportunities to the artists in our communities, and shares the work we do with the public.

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Assistive Devices Program (ADP) (ON)

The Assistive Devices Program (ADP) helps people with long-term physical disabilities pay for customized equipment, like wheelchairs and hearing aids.

The ADP also helps cover the cost of specialized supplies, such as those used with ostomies.

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FAQ: Clinical Support Add-On at Purple Carrots

What is the Clinical Support Add-On?
It’s an optional service for families planning to use extended benefits or other clinical funding. It provides brief, structured support from a regulated professional during your child’s Purple Carrots program.

Is Purple Carrots becoming a clinical service?
No — our programs remain recreational and drama-based.
Clinical support becomes possible only when someone chooses the add-on, which brings a regulated professional into the process for goal-setting, check-ins, and reporting.

Who are the regulated professionals?

  • Ontario: Registered Psychotherapists

  • British Columbia: Speech-Language Pathologist
    These professionals support goals and documentation within a non-therapeutic, consultative scope.

What does the add-on include?

  • Pre-program goal-setting meeting with a regulated professional and the workshop lead facilitator

  • Mid-program check-in with a regulated professional and the workshop lead facilitator

  • Post-program summary report with a regulated professional and the workshop lead facilitator

Why would I choose this add-on?
Some participants need regulated professional involvement or documentation for their funding submissions. This model helps support that requirement.

Does choosing the add-on guarantee funding approval?
No. The add-on provides documentation you may need, but it does not guarantee reimbursement or approval from any funding body.

Do all participants need this add-on?
No—only those planning to use clinical funding. Everyone else registers as usual.

Is this therapy?
No. This is a consultative service, not formal therapy, and stays within the scope of each professional’s regulatory college.

Is there an extra fee?
Yes. It is a separate, tax-exempt add-on to cover the regulated professional’s time for meetings and reporting.

If you have questions about whether the add-on is right for you or your child, feel free to email payments@purplecarrots.ca