Those living with autism spectrum disorder in B.C. will soon be getting more help and support, in part at a new Richmond facility, thanks to two major initiatives announced Monday (Dec. 7).
The first initiative is the Ready, Willing & Able program, which aims to help adults living with ASD find jobs and employment opportunities.
The program, funded by the federal government, will be delivered in B.C. by the Pacific Autism Family Centre Foundation in partnership with the Autism Society of B.C.
The second initiative is a $150,000 donation from LifeLabs toward the construction of a clinic, located at the Goodlife Fitness Autism Family Hub on Sea Island.
Staffed by specially trained lab technicians, the clinic, overlooking the Middle Arm of the Fraser River, will be designed for people with ASD, who often have to be fully sedated during blood collection procedures, delaying their diagnosis and treatment.
Both programs will be delivered through the Pacific Autism Family Centre, a proposed centre of excellence for people with ASD and their families which is set to open in 2016.
