Transitioning to adulthood is an important juncture that often presents challenges for autistic youth and adults. Yet it is a different experience for everyone.
As is the case for many government-funded services, once a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) reaches a certain age, the support available to them changes. In most Canadian provinces, children transition into the adult service program on their 18th birthday, some on their 19th birthday.
Transition planning typically begins between the ages of 12 and 16 years old. Please note that the age at which a child becomes eligible for adult resources is different across the country.
Entering adulthood can be stressful, and needing to understand a brand new set of government-funded supports and services can be overwhelming. This page provides information about the government-funded services and supports available to adults living with ASD. We are hopeful that a robust understanding of what resources are available – in the transition period and beyond – is helpful to individuals and families.
This page outlines government-funded supports and services available to adults (18 years or older) with autism living in Nunavut.
Income Assistance Program
In Nunavut, funding is mainly available through the Income Assistance Program via the Department of Family Services
Income Assistance administers a broad variety of programs of financial support to satisfy basic needs for shelter, food and clothing and to assist in the transition towards employment. Income Assistance includes benefit programs for people 18 and over, and their dependents.
The Basic Allowance amount depends on the zone in which an individual lives within Nunavut. Additional amounts are provided for room and board, accommodation, and utilities.
Steps to Apply:
- The applicant needs to call the local Income Assistance Office to book an appointment. The Income Assistance Worker will identify needed documentation to bring. No application can be processed fully without the appropriate documentation.
- Contact your community Income Assistance Worker or your Family Services Regional Office to set up an appointment:
- At the first appointment, the Income Assistance program is reviewed. The applicant may be directed to consult with a Career Development Officer or Inuit Organization pre-employment office if they are not currently employed.
- Once the application is verified, the applicant meets with the Income Assistance Worker.
- Eligible Basic Allowance benefits will be provided to the client via cheque to either the client or approved third party:
- Rent is paid via a consolidated cheque to Local Housing Authorities for those in Nunavut Housing Corporation units.
- Electricity is paid via a consolidated cheque to Qulliq Energy Corporation.
Additional Resources from AIDE Canada:
Photo by Isaac Demeester on Unsplash
