A non-profit charitable association that provides direct service/support to youth-at-risk and adults (16 to 65) who have learning disabilities and/or learning difficulties. Offers information, referral, psych-ed and vocational assessments by registered psychologists, individual counselling, support groups, advocacy, public awareness presentations, research projects, "Start Here" EAS for anyone unemployed funded by the Province of BC and "Youth Prep" for youth-at-risk funded by Service Canada Skills Link.

A parent-based and directed society providing advocacy, information and support to individuals with autism and their families in British Columbia and Yukon.

Community Parent Groups
E-mail: shui@autismbc.ca
Parent volunteers who meet at regular intervals to assist parents in their respective communities. An excellent opportunity to meet and network with other parents, and also a great opportunity to learn more as many of our groups bring in guest speakers on a wide range of topics to help educate interested parents.

Library
E-mail: shui@autismbc.ca
A resource library of over 1500 items, including books, videos, audiotapes and autism-related journals. Will send requested materials to any member of the Society free of charge with return postage paid.

Online Discussion Forum
An opportunity for parents and professionals in the community to have real-time discussions regarding treatment issues, adult issues, school issues and provincial issues. It also provides a section for classified ads and help wanted. This service is accessible from the home page by clicking on the Discussion Forum & Classified Ads link.

Summer Reimbursement Program
Helps pay for summer activities that some families may not be able to provide. Child must be autistic to be eligible.

British Columbians who are blind, visually impaired, deaf blind, or are blind/visually impaired and have additional disabilities will experience the enjoyment of achieving a healthy active lifestyle through participation in physical activity, physical education, recreation, outdoor pursuits, and sport at their chosen level.

BC Centre for Ability is a non-profit organization providing therapy, rehabilitation and vocational services to over 3,000 children, youth and adults with physical, neurological and developmental challenges. Their goal is to provide community based services that enhance the quality of life of children, youth and adults with disabilities and their families in ways that facilitate and build competencies, and foster inclusion in all aspects of life. The head office is located at 2805 Kingsway Ave., Vancouver, BC V5R 5H9.

Community Brain Injury Program for Children and Youth
Fax:  604-451-5651
A provincial program that provides short term acute rehabilitation services to children and youth with recent acquired brain injuries who do not have third-party funding.

Daily Endeavours
Provides individualized person centred services to 26 residents in Vancouver and Burnaby with complex, multiple disabilities that require personalized supports to actively pursue full and meaningful lives in their community.

Early Intervention Therapy Program
Fax:  604-451-5651
Provides home and community-based physiotherapy, occupational therapy, speech-language therapy and social work services for infants, toddlers and preschoolers from birth to school-entry age, who have additional physical and/or cognitive developmental needs, and reside in Vancouver, Richmond, North and West Vancouver, and Burnaby.

Employment Resource Centre for Persons with Disabilities
Provides employment counselling, case management, skill enhancement, job search and job maintenance services to unemployed or underemployed adults from age 16 years old who have a disability or chronic health condition that is a barrier to employment, and display potential to work independently.

Greater Vancouver Business Leadership Network
Provides job placement services to unemployed individuals who are legally entitled to work in Canada, display the potential for competitive employment and have a disability or medical condition that results in a barrier to employment. The program utilizes a corporate development approach to build a coalition of businesses to promote hiring individual with disabilities.

Supported Child Development Program - Vancouver and Burnaby
Assists families of children from 0 - 19 years old with extra support needs to access inclusive child care that meets individual needs. The program also supports child care, preschool and out of school programs to implement and develop inclusive principles and practices to enhance all children’s experiences.

The Opportunities Fund
Provides funding for training, wage subsidy and disability supports to assist individuals with a permanent disability or a medical condition to secure employment or establish self employment. Individuals must have been ineligible for Employment Insurance in the past 3 years.

The BCCPD is a non-profit organization run by and for people with disabilities. We represent people with all disabilities and champion disability issues through our direct services, community partnerships, advocacy, research and publications. Our mission is to support people, regardless of their disability, to live with dignity, independence and as equal and full participants in society.

Advocacy Access Program
Phone:  604-872-1278
Toll Free:  1-800-663-1278
Assists people with disabilities to apply for and appeal the denial of provincial disability benefits including income supports and medical goods and services. Helps people to apply for BC Housing and provides information and referrals on a range of disability programs. Provides workshops for community advocates and clients. Partially funded by the Law Foundation of BC.

AIDS & Disability Action Program (ADAP)/Wellness & Disability Initiative (WDI)/Health Literacy Network (HLN)
Toll Free:  1-877-232-7400
E-mail: wdi@bccpd.bc.ca
ADAP, WDI and HLN are educational programs serving people with all types of disabilities, as well as families, caregivers and service providers. ADAP publishes and distributes HIV prevention information in plain language and audio and Braille formats. WDI provides consumer health information and customized research services. HLN promotes awareness of health literacy and the importance of accessible health information and services.

Community and Residents Mentors Association Project
E-mail: carma@bccpd.bc.ca
Community and Residents Mentors Association Project (CARMA) is a peer support program that works with residents of George Pearson Centre, an extended care facility in Vancouver. CARMA's peer mentors assist residents to make and realize life goals including transitions to the community. CARMA also facilitates building bridges between residents and the community.

Transition Magazine
Transition is an informative publication covering a broad range of issues of interest to people with disabilities, their families and caregivers, and professionals in the field. Yearly subscription: $20.00 (four issues).

A semi-automated information and referral line that provides 24-hour recorded information on topics related to mental health and mental illnesses, such as depression and schizophrenia, and how to find a counsellor. Volunteers/staff are available 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Monday to Friday to assist with locating community resources. Printed materials can be mailed to interested callers. A service of BC Partners for Mental Health and Addictions.

Dedicated to supporting families of people with serious mental illnesses, educating the public, raising funds for research, and advocating for better services for people with schizophrenia and other serious and persistent mental illnesses.

Family Respite Services
Offers approximately 80 hours of service per year, or the equivalent in funding, to caregivers in need of respite. The program is open to people of all ages suffering from a mental illness, as well as to children of a parent with a mental illness.

A non-profit organization devoted to providing opportunities for athletes with physical disabilities. In partnership with other provincial wheelchair sports societies across Canada, BCWSA is dedicated to promoting wheelchair sport and increasing community awareness.

An annual pass for public transit systems (ie: Translink, BC Transit) available to eligible persons. Applicants must apply every year and the cost is $45 per year. You may purchase the pass if you are receiving federal Old Age Security, and either the Guaranteed Income Supplement or Spouse's Allowance; or are only ineligible for those benefits because you have not lived in Canada for 10 years; or are age 60 to 64 and receiving BC Employment and Assistance; or are receiving disability assistance under Employment and Assistance for Persons with Disabilities. This is a program of the BC Ministry of Human Resources. Call or write for more information.

Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) is Canada's national housing agency. They are committed to helping Canadians access a wide choice of quality, affordable homes, while making vibrant, healthy communities and cities a reality across the country. CMHC works to enhance Canada's housing finance options, assist Canadians who cannot afford housing in the private market, improve building standards and housing construction, and provide policymakers with the information and analysis they need to sustain a vibrant housing market in Canada.

Aboriginal Housing
Web site: www.cmhc.ca/en/ab/
CMHC offers programs in partnership with First Nations and others to meet the housing needs of Aboriginal Canadians on and off reserve.

Grants and Awards
Web site: www.cmhc.ca/en/inpr/graw/index.cfm
CMHC provides grants and sponsors partnerships to encourage research and initiatives that offer solutions to the housing needs of Canadians.

Home Adaptations for Seniors' Independence (HASI)
Web site: www.cmhc.ca/en/ab/noho/noho_006.cfm
Assists qualified home owners and landlords in paying for minor home modifications which make it possible for low-income seniors to continue to live at home independently. Visit the website for more information.

Homeowner Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program - Homeowner RRAP
Web site: www.cmhc.ca/en/co/prfinas/prfinas_001.cfm
Assists low-income households who own and live in substandard housing to repair their homes to a minimum level of health and safety.

Rental Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program - Rental RRAP
Web site: www.cmhc.ca/en/co/prfinas/prfinas_008.cfm
Offers financial assistance to landlords of affordable housing to pay for mandatory repairs to self-contained units occupied by low-income tenants.

Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Program for Persons with Disabilities (RRAP-Disabilities)
Web site: www.cmhc.ca/en/co/prfinas/prfinas_003.cfm
Offers financial assistance to homeowners and landlords so they can modify the home or unit for a low-income person with a disability.

Residential Rehabilitation Assistance Programs (RRAP)
RRAP help renovate rooming houses and rental units to create more housing for those in need. Provides financial assistance for converting commercial or industrial buildings into affordable housing. There are also RRAP available for specific needs.

Shelter Enhancement Program (SEP)
Web site: www.cmhc.ca/en/co/prfinas/prfinas_011.cfm
Offers assistance to repair, rehabilitate and improve existing shelters for women and their children, youth and men who are victims of family violence.

With over 150 branches across the country, the Canadian Diabetes Association is the largest non-governmental supporter of diabetes research, education, advocacy support and services.

Insurance For People Living With Diabetes
Toll Free:  1-866-266-0166
The Canadian Diabetes Association believes people living with diabetes should have access to reasonable and adequate insurance. The Association works with Ingle International to provide access to a wide range of insurance products and information.

Canadian Guide Dogs for the Blind (CGDB) is a national, non-profit, registered and charitable organization that aims to assist visually-impaired Canadians with their mobility by providing and training them in the use of professionally trained Guide Dogs.

The Canadian Mental Health Association, a nation wide, volunteer organization, promotes the mental health of all and supports the resilience and recovery of people experiencing mental illness.

Pathways Clubhouse
Pathways Clubhouse helps members recover from mental illness and reclaim their lives through a supportive environment that focuses on the person’s strengths and talents, rather than their illness. We create opportunities for members to return to school, gain employment, have a place to live, connect with their families, make new friends and create multiple successes. We also provide mental health education to increase awareness and understanding of mental illness and mental health.

The Knowledge Centre for Cerebral Palsy raises awareness of CP in the community, assists those living with CP to reach their maximum potential and works to see those living with CP realize their place as equals within a diverse society.

Education
Speakers for talks or workshops are available by request for schools, clubs, businesses, organizations and other community groups. Educational bursaries for students living with CP who wish to pursue a post-secondary education and student work placement opportunities are available.

Information
Contact them to find out about services, programs and resources available to those living with or affected by Cerebral Palsy (CP). Publications on current topics related to CP are available. CPABC runs a lending library containing books and videos on all aspects of Cerebral Palsy for members. A quarterly newsletter, The Roundtable, provides information about Cerebral Palsy, the Association's activities, and news from the larger disabled community.

Support
Advocacy as well as Family and Individual Support are available. Information and referral specialist connects people with CP with programs and services.

Maintains a support group for families of those with ADD, provides a forum for continuing education of both parents and professionals about ADD, and is a community resource for information about ADD. Call for information about meeting times.

Carries out Richmond's emergency programs, archives, garbage and recycling programs, compost demonstration garden, leisure services, special needs services, and economic development programs.

Diversity Services
Web site: www.richmond.ca/parksrec/about/access/about.htm
Phone:  604-276-4390
Fax:  604-276-4132
E-mail: diversityservices@richmond.ca
The Diversity Services section works with other community agencies to eliminate barriers and ensure appealing, livable and well-managed recreation and cultural services for all Richmond residents. By working with community groups, we develop opportunities for persons with disabilities, in financial need, or from ethno-cultural groups.

Diversity Services Recreation Access Card
Web site: www.richmond.ca/parksrec/about/access/about.htm
Phone:  604-247-4909
Fax:  604-276-4132
The Recreation Access Card is for Richmond residents living with a permanent disability. It offers a 50% discount for drop-in activities at City recreation facilities - some restrictions apply. For details, call the Recreation and Cultural Services Central Office.

CNIB passionately provides community-based support, knowledge and a national voice to ensure Canadians who are blind or partially sighted have the confidence, skills and opportunities to fully participate in life.

Adaptive Technology
Phone:  604-431-2144
Training and support for accessible computer technology for people who are blind or partially sighted.

CNIB Library
Toll Free:  1-800-268-8818
CNIB has one of the world’s largest specialized libraries for people with print disabilities, including more than 100,000 titles in Braille, print-Braille, talking books, descriptive videos, newspapers and magazines.

Counselling
One-on-one or group counselling and support to help overcome the emotional and practical challenges of vision loss.

Independent Living Skills
CNIB offers people who are blind and partially sighted training to help manage the essentials of daily living, including cooking, cleaning and communications. The emphasis is on maintaining independence.

Low Vision Services
Phone:  604-431-2142
E-mail: marcia.zaganas@cnib.ca
Professional assessments and instruction on how to maximize vision using everything from magnifiers and lighting to contrasting colours and textures.

Orientation and Mobility
CNIB instructors help people who are blind or partially sighted to learn to travel independently, focusing on how to move safely around the home, community, workplace or school.

Shop CNIB
Phone:  604-431-2112
From talking calculators and large-print cookbooks, to magnifiers and adapted games, these products can be ordered online or via telephone to facilitate activities of daily living and recreation for people who are blind or partially sighted.

The purpose of the Community Legal Assistance Society (CLAS) is to provide legal advice and assistance and to use and develop the law for the benefit of people who are physically, mentally, socially, economically or otherwise disadvantaged or whose human rights need protection.

BC Human Rights Clinic
Web site: www.clasbc.net/human_rights_clinic.php
CLAS provides free legal representation for people throughout the province who have an upcoming human rights hearing before the BC Human Rights Tribunal. They also offer free weekly informational clinics for those who do not qualify for representation or who otherwise want to represent themselves at hearing.

Community & Disability Law
Web site: www.clasbc.net/community_and_disability_law_program.php
CLAS' community and disability lawyers provide legal advice and representation in a range of areas including housing, income security, debt, WCB, EI, and accessibility for people with disabilities. They also supervise legal advocacy groups, provide legal education and engage in law reform

Mental Health Law Program (MHLP)
Web site: www.clasbc.net/mental_health_law_program.php
The Mental Health Law Program (MHLP) at CLAS provides legal services to people with a mental disorder receiving regulated secured treatment in BC. They provide services in three key areas: 1.) Representation at BC Review Board Hearings for people found by the courts to be not criminally responsible on account of a mental disorder or to be unfit to stand trial due to a mental disorder; 2.) representation at Review Panel hearings for people who have been involuntarily detained under the BC Mental Health Act; 3.) and providing independent legal information on detention issues to people detained under the BC Mental Health Act at Riverview Hospital and the Forensic Psychiatric Hospital

Community Leisure Transportation operates passenger vehicles for use by Richmond-based, non-profit community leisure groups. The service is operated to make leisure programs accessible to Richmond citizens with special needs, and to promote leisure opportunities for Richmond residents. Hours: 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

Community Living BC (CLBC) delivers support and services to adults with developmental disabilities and their families in British Columbia. It has a board of self-advocates, family and community members, as well as staff located throughout the province. We believe that people with developmental disabilities and their families know best when it comes to their needs, goals and planning for the future.

The DCY Basketball Association promotes and supports the development of basketball programs for youth with developmental challenges in British Columbia. Programs are open to males from 13 - 25 years. The Richmond District program operates out of the West Richmond Community Centre (No.1 Road & Francis) on Mondays from 7:30 - 9:15pm.

Provides intervention, community living and other support services to persons who are deafblind and their families. Provides access to high-quality consistent intervention, community living resources, advocacy and other support services to facilitate the rights of deafblind people to have meaningful participation and interaction with their community.

Richmond residential homes
There are 2 residential homes in Richmond: 5728 Woodwards Rd and 6060 Christina Rd.

The Developmental Disabilities Association is a community living agency that provides over 50 community-based programs and services to children, adults and their families with developmental disabilities in Vancouver and Richmond. Their Mission is to enable people with developmental disabilities to achieve their full potential.

Adult Residential Services
Phone:  604-273-9778
E-mail: dwhite@develop.bc.ca
Offers group homes, supported living and a community apartment program. Please contact 604-273-9778 for group home information, 604-233-5486 for supported living and 604-233-5450 for the community apartment program.

Clothing and Household Items Donations
2643 No. 5 Road
Richmond,  BC   V6X 2S8   (Map)
Web site: www.develop.bc.ca/contribute/donate-clothes.html
Phone:  604-273-4331
To donate reusable clothing and small household items, you can also drop off your donations Thursday to Sunday between 10am and 5pm at our Starjumper Donation Station. Other times are available by appointment. Other bins can also be located by postal code on their website. Donated items are sold to Value Village, generating revenue to fund local DDA programs.

Daycares and After School Care
Phone:  604-307-0465
E-mail: kmoncalieri@develop.bc.ca.
The DDA offers eight daycares and after-school programs across Vancouver and Richmond to provide social and educational opportunities for children with special needs from infancy to elementary school years.

Family Support and Advocacy
Phone:  604-233-5433
E-mail: tschenkel@develop.bc.ca
The Family Support Worker provides information and support to individuals with a developmental disability and their family. Services include parent support groups, resources and workshops. Family Support and Information Groups meet monthly in Vancouver and Richmond. Also offers a Respitality Program for parents and caregivers.

Holiday Options
Phone:  604-321-4745
E-mail: holidayoptions@develop.bc.ca
Provides an opportunity for adults with developmental disabilities to participate in summer activities. Offers day trips and out-of-town experiences. The program runs from June to August.

Infant Development Program
3455 Kaslo Street
Vancouver,  BC   V5M 3H4   (Map)
Phone:  604-435-8166
E-mail: bbarnes@develop.bc.ca
In this family-centered, home based program, infant development consultants work in partnership with parents and community professionals to assist in developing skills and approaches that enable families to enhance their child's development.

Jobs West
411 - 2150 W. Broadway
Vancouver,  BC   V6K 4L9   (Map)
Web site: www.jobswestdda.ca
Phone:  604-732-7776
Fax:  604-732-7841
E-mail: kinglis@develop.bc.ca
An employment service for adults with developmental disabilities. It helps employers match, train, and keep qualified staff. Participants must be eligible for services through Community Living BC.

Main Street Drop In
Phone:  604-322-0052
E-mail: mwoolley@develop.bc.ca
Offers support groups including Diabetes Support Group, Wellness Group, a Hot Lunch Program, Healthy Living and Weight Loss Group, and Volunteer Work. Hours of operation vary according to the activity schedule. Call for more information.

Respite Services
E-mail: respite@develop.bc.ca
Provides temporary relief to families caring for someone with a disability. Referrals must be made by Community Living BC.

Starworks - Packing and Assembly
276 SW. Marine Dr.
Vancouver,  BC   V5X 2R5   (Map)
Web site: www.starworks.ca
Phone:  604-879-8457
Fax:  604-879-7441
E-mail: starworks@develop.bc.ca
Starworks is a social enterprise created to hire people with a developmental disability from the Vancouver area to perform light labour and assembly work. We employ over 50 casual workers in our 5000 square foot warehouse with the capacity to handle all types of work that requires high volume manual labour.

Provides recreational (primarily summer camp) experiences for children with neurological deficits such as learning disabilities, attention deficit disorder and ADHD, Tourette's syndrome and Aspberger syndrome.

A residential psychiatric facility offering 10 beds. Offers a community residential program for people with severe and persistent mental illnesses, including those who were psychiatric hospital placements and Riverview patients, that require a stress-free, quiet, structured environment to function in the community and prevent re-hospitalization. Encourages life skills with the aim of having residents move on to semi-independent/independent living situations. The House is provided by the Katherine Sanford Housing Society.

Pre-Independent Living Program
Prepares residences to move on to semi-independent or independent living situations.

Greater Vancouver Community Services Society is a non-profit agency represented in several different municipalities - Vancouver, Richmond and North Vancouver. It currently offers: Home Support Services and Community Living Services

Community Living
The Community Living Department of the Greater Vancouver Community Services Society operates a number of homes for adults with developmental disabilities. The homes are established to provide long term support to each of the individuals, many of whom are former residents of Woodlands School. The homes are located in Vancouver, North Vancouver, and Richmond.

Home Support
E-mail: dhill@gvcss.bc.ca
The GVCSS Home Support Department provides home support service to eligible clients who have difficulty looking after themselves due to age, illness, disabilities, or family problems. Service is available on a daily, weekly, monthly, and live-in basis. Clients can purchase services directly from the Society or be eligible for funding by the Vancouver Coastal Health Authority, the Ministry for Children and Family Development and other organizations who will assess their eligibility for service. Services are available in a number of Chinese dialects, as well as many other languages.

A non-profit charitable organization with a tradition of caring for those in most need. Since 1898, the Health and Home Care Society of BC has been working to build healthy communities through health, wellness and community support services as a founding branch of the Victorian Order of Nurses. Programs include: Meals on Wheels, Chinese Meals on Wheels, the Family Respite Centre, the Community Integration Project and Health Promotion Services such as flu shots and health education.

Community Integration Project (CIP)
St. George's Place
14th Ave & Laurel Street Vancouver,  BC   Helps people with physical disabilities adapt to their housing and daily living needs while maintaining their quality of life within their home and community. This modern apartment complex includes a resident mix of tenants both with and without physical disabilities. It is conveniently located near Vancouver Hospital and GF Strong Rehabilitation Centre.

Family Respite Centre
2711 E. 49 St.
Vancouver,  BC   V6J 1S1   (Map)
Phone:  604-327-9525
They offer a homelike environment where seniors with mental or physical frailties receive temporary care, benefiting from the care of our dedicated nursing staff, advanced recreational and therapeutic programs and the opportunity to socialize with other guests, staff and volunteers.

The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) is a provincial Crown corporation established in 1973 to provide universal auto insurance for BC motorists. In addition, ICBC is responsible for driver licensing, vehicle registration and licensing and commercial vehicle compliance. Hours of operation: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday to Friday.

Disability Discount
Web site: www.icbc.com/autoplan/costs/save-money/disability-discount
Phone:  604-660-4524
Toll Free:  1-877-388-4440
If you are 16 or older, own or lease a vehicle and are a "person with disabilities," you may qualify for a 25% discount on your basic Autoplan. The discount may be applied to only one vehicle. To apply for the discount, you must first apply for the fuel tax rebate under the Ministry of Finance to get a Motor Fuel Tax Act registration number. Visit www.icbc.com for more information

A consumer advocacy group that helps its members by providing information, services, financial assistance, advocacy, etc.

Provides services to children with learning disabilities and their parents. Raises public awareness of learning disabilities and plays an advocacy role. Serves Vancouver, Burnaby and Richmond. The services and programs delivered out of the Vancouver office include:

Parent Support Meetings
Offers information sessions for parents, educators and community professionals about advocacy and learning disabilities. Meetings are every third Monday of the month on various topics.

Remedial Tutoring Programs
The Learning Disabilities Association of Vancouver provides a number of academic programs to children between the ages of 7 and 14. These programs include one-on-one tutoring, Hands-on Math, Orton Gillingham and High school Skills development.

Resource Library
The Association has a small collection of library books, articles and videos.

Social Skills Program
The social skills program seeks to increase the social competence and self-confidence in children between the ages of 7 and 13, by combining instruction and training through realistic role-play activities.

The Ministry of Finance provides fiscal policies and regulatory frameworks to support a strong provincial economy and the sustainable delivery of services to British Columbians.

Fuel Tax Refund Program for Persons with Disabilities
360 West Georgia Street, Suite 800
Vancouver,  BC   Web site: www.sbr.gov.bc.ca/business/Consumer_Taxes/Motor_Fuel_Tax/mft.htm
Phone:  604-660-4524
Fax:  250-356-2195
Toll Free:  1-877-388-4440
Persons with certain physical disabilities are eligible for a refund of the provincial tax they pay on fuel used in their vehicles. The maximum allowable refund per year is $500. To be eligible, the applicant must be at least 16 years old, is a registered owner or lease of a motor vehicle and must be a person with disabilities as defined in the Motor Fuel Tax Act. See the website for more details and the application form.

Supports British Columbians toward achieving their potential, by moving them from income assistance to sustainable employment and by providing income assistance to those in need. This ministry is responsible for: BC Employment and Assistance, Employment Services, Employment Strategy for Persons with Disabilities. The Victoria address is: PO Box 9058 Stn Prov Govt, Victoria, BC V8W 9E2.

BC Employment and Assistance
Helps people find employment, while giving financial assistance to those in need. You are expected to look for work before you receive assistance. When you are receiving help, you will need to carry out an action plan to reach your job goals.

BC Employment Program
Assists ministry clients in BC communities find and keep jobs through individualized employment services and support. This program replaces the ministry's Job Placement and Training for Jobs Programs. Depending on client needs, services may include self-directed job searches, workshops, support costs for work related expenses, and more. Call the toll-free number for more information.

Electronic Services (E-services)
Web site: www.weborientation.gov.bc.ca
24-hour-a-day, 7-day-a-week access to BC Employment and Assistance information by telephone and internet. On the web there is a job search orientation session that teaches job search tips, how to apply for income assistance, the requirements to work, and more. There is also an income assistance estimator (www.iaestimator.gov.bc.ca).

Employment Program for Persons with Disabilities (EPPD)
100 - 5760 Minoru Blvd.
Richmond,  BC   V6X 2A9   (Map)
EPPD is a specialized program for persons with disabilities who wish to participate more fully in their community. The program provides support in pre-employment services, planning and employment services, self-employment services, disability supports for employment, and assistive technology.

Family Maintenance Program
This program is available to people who receive income assistance. Spouses or people with children are often entitled to receive spousal or child support payments. Must be eligible for BC Employment and Assistance to be eligible for FMP. Family Maintenance Workers assist spouses and parents to get the maintenance order they are entitled to receive under the Child Support Guidelines. For more information call the BC Child Support Line (604) 660-2192

Seniors Supplement (Province of BC)
9950 Stn Prov Govt
Victoria,  BC   V8W 9R3   (Map)
Web site: www.canadabenefits.gc.ca
Toll Free:  1-888-387-3743
The Seniors Supplement is a guaranteed monthly income for BC residents who are receiving the federal Guaranteed Income Supplement as well as the Old Age Security pension or federal Allowances. For more information call the toll-free number (dial 4, then 1).

Minoru Sports Pavilion is operated by the City of Richmond Recreation and Cultural Services Department and is the office administering specialty Healthy Lifestyle Programs. It is also the office for the Richmond Fitness and Wellness Community Association. Specialized programs include: Healthy Back & Strong Abdominals; Osteofit for Life; Strength & Stretch; Tai Chi Beginner; TaikoFit Drumming; Yoga and Girls only Yoga.

Strives to be a leader in finding a cure for multiple sclerosis and enabling people affected by MS to enhance their quality of life. Provides information and support, equipment, advocacy, and education to people affected by MS.

Volunteer Legal Advocacy Program
Burnaby,  Provides lawyers and trained volunteers with legal advocacy expertise who work towards meeting the legal and advocacy needs of members. Call and ask to speak with a Volunteer Legal Advocacy Program Coordinator. Financial criteria apply.

The Richmond Branch offers both Provincial and Federal employment programs designed to assist anyone with a permanent disability or persons facing multiple barriers to employment to choose, obtain and keep competitive employment. Services include individualized employment counselling, pre-employment and job search workshops, employer contacts and on-going support. The Richmond office also includes a fully equipped Employment Resource Centre with onsite help with computers, Internet access, job postings, photocopying, local phone calles and faxing. The Resource Centre is for independent participants as well as individuals accessing case management services.

A non-profit agency that provides residential and community support services for adults, children, and youth who are physically and mentally challenged. Also offers a training program to families and professionals. Please view the website for more details.

Life Skills
Web site: http://www.posabilities.ca/?page_id=44
Develop skills that will assist them to gain more independence at home and in the community. The life skills support service is time-limited, and based on specific goals that are created to meet the individual’s abilities and needs. Life skills teaching can involve direct teaching/mentoring and/or group classes and workshops. Support hours can be scheduled for weekdays, weekends or evening.

Social Skills Groups
Web site: http://www.posabilities.ca/?page_id=87
A trained consultant facilitates each small group session based on well-established social skills curriculum. The programs are tailored to the unique characteristics and needs of each group. This program offers a positive learning experience in a natural social setting. Each participant sets goals and practices new skills amongst peers while having fun. A Social Skills Group is an ideal setting for building self-confidence, independence and communication skills while meeting new friends.

Structured Day Support Programs
Web site: http://www.posabilities.ca/?page_id=40
Participants are encouraged to pursue their interests and try out different program options. In addition to the variety that this approach offers, the person served has the opportunity to meet new people and to expand his or her social circle. The majority of the structured day support and life skills programs are offered in Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond and Maple Ridge.

This is a provincial program supporting students with deafblindness in their home school districts through consultation. Consultants work with parents and professionals to meet the needs of the students.

Our volunteers operate the program two mornings a week on Mondays and Thursdays from 9:00am to 11:30am. The program runs during the school year and is open to special needs children aged 6 months to 3 years or those who come from a family of special needs. Parents do not attend the playground and they use a small bus to transport the children who will be unable to attend carefree otherwise. They play with the children, talk to them, read to them, engage them in crafts, musical activities, provide them with a snack and tender, love and care. They also have music therapists come in twice a week to work with the children. The children need to be referred by a health care professional to participate in the program.

The Richmond Centre for Disability (RCD) is a not-for-profit, multi-service, community based organization. The RCD offers a variety of specialized information, resources, projects and activities that assist people with disabilities to achieve greater control over the decisions that affect their lives and to achieve the goal of living more independently.

Access Richmond
Web site: www.accessrichmond.ca
E-mail: ella@rcdrichmond.org
Provides information on the accessibility of Richmond businesses, and tourist attractions for people with disabilities, also recognizes destinations that already offer outstanding accessibility through an easy-to-use online database (www.accessrichmond.ca).

Children and Youth Summer Camp
E-mail: ian@rcdrichmond.org
Specialized summer camp activities for children and youth with special needs for July and August.

Community Access for Computer
E-mail: ian@rcdrichmond.org
Provides barrier free access to computer technology to people with disabilities and general public. Free Internet access.

Information & Networking
E-mail: carrie@rcdrichmond.org
Provides information to participants and the general public about services, programs, products, and support pertaining to disability issues. Also offers information events such as open forums, fairs and training workshops.

Parking Permit for Persons with Disabilities
E-mail: kathy@rcdrichmond.org
The RCD is an authorized issuer of parking permits for individuals with disabilities to use accessible parking spots.

Peer Support & Social Interaction
E-mail: rich@rcdrichmond.org
Provides a forum for participants to exchange ideas, experiences and concerns in a comfortable atmosphere to create solutions that will overcome barriers in their personal lives, as well as foster socialization skills. Activities include recreational and social events.

Public Education Series
E-mail: carrie@rcdrichmond.org
Provides a regular schedule of workshops for a variety of topics pertaining to disability issues and some general community interests to members and the general public to stay better informed.

Skills Development
E-mail: viet@rcdrichmond.org
Provides supportive learning opportunities to participants in different areas of skills development such as employment, computer skills, English course, office skills, life skills and other initiatives as responding to the needs of the community.

Youth Engagement Project
E-mail: ella@rcdrichmond.org
A specialized project to provide opportunity for youth with disabilities to engage and socialize in the community. Guided by a Youth Council to promote peer support and sharing of experience among youth.

A non-profit organization dedicated to providing food assistance to low-income people in Richmond. Its mission is: To provide food assistance, advocacy and related support for those in our community in need. Does not solicit door-to-door or by telephone.

Special Needs
Other arrangements may be made for people with special needs to receive food from the Food Bank. Please call for more information.

The Society is committed to the provision of community based services for children, teens, and adults with developmental disabilities. Fundamental is the belief that each individual has the right to those services which will enable him or her to participate - to the greatest extent possible - in the same activities of everyday life as a non-handicapped peer.

Adult Day Programs
Programs include: Avenues, Transitions and Richmond Community Options. Offers a variety of assistance and support in the areas of life-skills, leisure and recreation, volunteerism and supported employment, with a focus on community and social inclusion.

Family Resource Coordination
Phone:  604-279-8245
E-mail: kgrossmann@rscl.org
Provides information and resources and/or support to family members who face the extraordinary circumstances that come with having a family member with a disability.

Family Respite Program
Phone:  604-279-8245
E-mail: kgrossmann@rscl.org
Provides relief for parents and caregivers from the daily responsibilities and accompanying stress of caring for children, teens, and adults who have developmental disabilities.

Infant Development Program
Phone:  604-279-7059
E-mail: idp@rscl.org
Trained consultants make home visits to families with children from birth to three years who may have a delay in their development, or are at risk of delay.

Residential Services
Group Homes: Trained staff provide support for individuals who choose to live with up to three others in their own home. Supported Living Programs: Offers a variety of individualized living options to promote independence, self-determination, personal choice and growth.

Richmond Handycrew Co-operative
Phone:  604-241-4113
E-mail: handycrew@rscl.org
Handycrew teams come together with their support workers to offer an estimate and carry out household projects. Prices range from $20 to $30. Services available include gardening (lawn mowing, pruning, light gardening), household cleaning (bathrooms, vacuuming/dusting, wiping and organizing kitchen cupboards, lining cupboards with shelf paper, washing windows inside and outside) and repairs.

Supported Child Development Program
Phone:  604-279-7010
E-mail: cmclellan-haqq@rscl.org
A community-based, early intervention program that provides practical information, resources, and strategies for the inclusion of children with disabilities in childcare settings to childcare providers and families. SCDP Consultants assist families in accessing childcare services in their community.

Treehouse Early Learning Centre
Phone:  604-277-8224
Fax:  604-277-8224
E-mail: lmountain@rscl.org
A child care program for children, both with and without a developmental disability, who need extra support to gain the skills of independence. For children aged 3 to 5.

Youth Connections
Phone:  604-279-7045
E-mail: cbooth@rscl.org
Leisure and social activities for youth aged 5 to 19 with varying disabilities to help them develop their abilities and have fun.

Offers the therapeutic benefits of horseback riding to people with disabilities. While participation in some activities may be denied to people with disabilities, horseback riding can be adapted appropriately in most cases, and is recognized as an aid in treating various physical, mental and emotional disorders. Reported benefits include improved balance and co-ordination, increased confidence and a sense of achievement. For fundraising and special events enquiries, please call Frances Clark at 604-277-3158 or 604-232-2404.

Administers the Public Schools Act from kindergarten through grade 12. School District No. 38 (Richmond) offers Early French Immersion, Late French Immersion and Montessori Programs. Placement in an Alternate Program will be determined through a district-wide draw process, with sibling priority. Parents/legal guardians new to the district must first register their child in person at their neighbourhood school, then, request and fill out the Alternate Programs application before the draw deadline.

Services for Students with Special Needs
Phone:  604-668-6071
Fax:  604-233-0521
Provides services for students with special needs, generally in their neighbourood schools. These settings usually include support in the regular classroom and/or learning assistance/ resource centre. Services from professionals such as speech/language pathologists, counsellors, and educational psychologists are provided to schools on an itinerant basis. Alternative settings can be arranged if required, particularly if the student is exhibiting challenging behaviour.

The mission of SPARC BC is to work with communities to build a just and healthy society for all. They are a non-partisan, independent organization whose members and Board of Directors are drawn from across the province. The organization is experienced in research, advocacy and social policy in areas of income security, accessibility and community development. They can offer communities connections to other social planning organizations in BC, knowledge of community development issues, strategies for successful fundraising, social enterprise and non-profit management.

Community Development Education (CDE)
Phone:  604-718-8501
The Community Development Education (CDE) program is a series of free or low cost workshops designed to join together community leaders in an effort to create strong and sustainable networks and comprehensive approaches to local issues. Workshop topics include Understanding and Using Community Social Planning and Building Social and Economic Security in our Communities.

Community Social Planning Network of British Columbia
Phone:  604-718-8501
An association of organizations involved in community social planning and community development across BC existing to share resources and information to meet goals, promote understanding of community social planning, and encourage research of community development and social planning issues.

Parking Permit Program for People with Disabilities
Phone:  604-718-7744
E-mail: permits@sparc.bc.ca
SPARC BC issues parking permits for people with disabilities in all areas of BC. You can download an application form from the website.

Research & Consulting Services
Phone:  604-718-8501
SPARC BC researchers and consultants will work closely with you on a tailored approach that is locally relevant and inclusive. Our focus on people and process means we build capacity that stays in your community or organization. We have extensive experience in many areas.

Provides quality sports programs for intellectually challenged athletes. Offers year-round sport programs and competitive opportunities in 14 sports. Volunteers and sponsors are always welcome. Visit the website for current sports programs or call for more information.

Previously known as the Cerebral Palsy Sports Association of BC, SportAbility is a non-profit, volunteer-driven association whose goal is to provide sporting opportunities for athletes with a wide range of physical disabilities. They support people of all ages and offer multiple sports from which to choose such as Sledge Hockey, Boccia, Power Soccer, 7 A-Side Soccer and Sitting Volleyball. As a multi-sport, multi-disability association, SportAbility strives to offer its members programs at both recreational and competitive levels.

Children requiring special attention in the water will benefit from these lessons, which are held at Minoru Aquatic Centre. They will attempt to arrange volunteers for each participant upon request. Class size: 3. Pre-requisite: none.

An independent, non-profit, non-political Society whose purpose is to provide British Columbians, especially those with particular legal needs with reliable and impartial information about the law. They do this by means of speakers, training workshops, publications, theatre, and special events. Call to order publications or to arrange for a speaker.

Justice Theatre
Phone:  604-331-5400
E-mail: dramas@publiclegaled.bc.ca
The actors of the Justice Theatre involve students as important participants in a dramatized criminal trial.

Speakers Program
Phone:  604-331-5412
E-mail: Caroline@publiclegaled.bc.ca
Provides speakers on legal topics to community groups in BC. Groups should consist of 15 or more people. The volunteer speakers include lawyers, accountants, and government representatives and will be provided at no cost. Please note that the speakers can give general legal education only.

This foundation is a national voluntary organization dedicated to helping individuals with Tourette Syndrome and their families and other interested parties by gathering and distributing information, promoting local self-help and professional services and research. The foundation hosts monthly support groups, except in July and August. Visit the website for more information.

TransLink is Metro Vancouver’s regional transportation authority. They are responsible for regional transit, cycling and commuting options as well as AirCare and Intelligent Transportation System programs. TransLink is committed to creating a transportation system for a sustainable region. Each aspect of our organization is committed to environmentally responsible solutions by helping people make smarter transportation choices.

HandyCard
13401 108 Ave.
Surrey,  BC   V3T 5T4   (Map)
Web site: www.translink.ca/en/Rider-Info/Accessible-Transit/HandyCard-Taxi-Saver.aspx
Phone:  778-452-2860
Allows people with a permanent physical or cognitive disability to travel at reduced rates on most public transit. An attendant who helps a HandyCard holder can travel free. Application forms are available on the TransLink website. With a HandyCard, you can also purchase TaxiSaver coupons, which allow you to pay for taxi rides at reduced rates HandyCards cannot be used on the HandyDART

HandyDART
Web site: www.translink.ca/en/Rider-Info/HandyDART.aspx
Phone:  604-575-6600
HandyDART is a custom transit service that uses specially equipped vehicles to carry passengers with physical or cognitive disabilities who cannot use regular public transit without assistance. Registration is required. To register, phone the office or visit the website to download an application form. They offer two types of trips: subscription or regular (daily/weekly) and casual, one time trips. Please visit their website or call them for more information

Information Line
Phone:  604-953-3333
Call for bus, SeaBus and SkyTrain fares, routes and schedules. Call 7 days a week, between 6:30am and 11:30pm. The website also includes a trip planner and transit maps. TransLink is Greater Vancouver's transportation authority.

Lost & Found
Stadium Sky Train Station 590 Beatty Street
Vancouver,  BC   Phone:  604-682-7887
E-mail: lost_property@translink.bc.ca
Operates Monday to Friday 8:30am to 5:00pm

Taxi Saver
13401 108 Ave.
Surrey,  BC   V3T 5T4   (Map)
Phone:  778-452-2860
Taxi Saver is a supplementary service to HandyDART and available for people with permanent disabilities who have a HandyCard. To find out more about the program, please contact the Access Transit office at 778-452-2860.

Offers care in the community for people who have health problems. Call to make an appointment to have your health care needs reviewed or just to get more information. If you would like, a relative or friend can phone for you. There will be a visit to discuss your health care needs and the support you get from family and friends.

Case Management
Phone:  604-278-3361
Case managers help to arrange home support for those unable to care for themselves due to health problems. There is a cost for some services. Call for more information.

Home Care Nursing and Rehabilitation
Phone:  604-278-3361
Nursing care and support is given to disabled newborns, children and adults whose needs can be safely met in their own home.

Home Support
Phone:  604-270-8105
Home support is given to those unable to care for themselves due to disabilities or other medical problems. The cost depends on your income

Integrated Hospice Palliative Care Services
Phone:  604-278-3361
The Integrated Hospice Palliative Care program provides end of life care throughout the patients' journey. Staff follow the client from their homes through to the palliative care unit to the hospice or in residential care. Clients in need of this service can call and a clinical consult team member will be in contact with them. The clinical consult team is made up of a social worker, clinical nurse specialist and clinical program manager (a physician who specializes in palliative care).

Long Term Care Facilities
Phone:  604-278-3361
For adults who can no longer live on their own, care homes offer 24-hour care. The cost depends on income. To move into most of these homes, you must be referred by Continuing Health.

Volunteer Shopping Programs
190 - 7000 Minoru Blvd.
Richmond,  BC   V6Y 3Z5   (Map)
Web site: www.volunteerrichmond.ca
Phone:  604-279-7020
Fax:  604-279-7038
Volunteer Richmond Information Services works in partnership with Vancouver Coastal Health to provide shopping assistance for seniors and others with chronic health problems. The Shop-by-Phone service is for those who cannot get out to shop for their groceries. Volunteers also assist Continuing Health clients with group shopping or weekly in-person shopping at various locations.

Offers support, information and recreational and social activities to the blind and visually impaired adult residents of Richmond. The group meets on the second Wednesday of each month from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. in room 340 of the Richmond Caring Place (7000 Minoru Blvd.). They meet every month except for June, July, August and December.

A non-profit organization that brings people and services together through community information and volunteerism.

Seniors Information & Referral
Trained senior 55+ volunteers provide information and referral regarding community services to seniors ages 55 and older. Also assists seniors navigate through government systems, and fill out application forms. Topics include pensions, income tax, citizenship and permanent residency, medical plan, pharmacare, legal resources, housing, and shelter aid for renters. Service is available by phone, as well as by appointment or drop-in at the office, 9 am to 4 pm Monday to Friday. Also offered by appointment at the West Richmond Community Centre Mondays 10 am to 2 pm. The Seniors Information line is available to answer any questions about benefits and entitlements for seniors. There are trained volunteers available Monday to Friday 9 am to 4 pm.

WS for Children is an agency of hope that enhances the lives of children with disabilities and their families. They assist parents to advocate for disability resources needed by their child, provide information about disorders and in-service to groups, and offer individualized advocacy in areas such as specialized equipment, medical resources, recreation, communication and learning and emotional well-being. Offers direct services and funding support, newsletter publications and a resource library for parents.