Sources North

Children and young individuals on the autism spectrum in Prince George now have a much easier way of accessing social and recreational services online thanks to a partnership between Sources North and Canucks Autism Network (CAN).

In response to COVID-19, CAN launched a series of free weekly virtual programs to help participants stay active and engaged from the comfort of their own home. However, since the technology required to access these programs can pose a barrier for some families, CAN secured funding and connected with established community service organizations to develop a free iPad loan program – with monthly data included!

This new initiative will provide children and families in the North with use of an iPad Mini equipped with monthly data and registration in weekly virtual programs completely free of charge. Families who already have their own device and internet access are also welcome to sign up for CAN’s virtual programs.

“Sources North is proud to be the Prince George hub for this exciting project and we are pleased to be the local connection for the Canucks Autism Network in delivering it. Our community resource centre is centrally located in downtown Prince George, making it a convenient access point for families looking to participate in the iPad loan program. We look forward to sharing these innovative virtual programs with the children and families we serve,” said Camila Sanchez, Director of Sources North.

“The work of the Canucks Autism Network aligns with our mission at SOURCES to promote social wellness in communities, including the 376 clients and families we served in Northern B.C. last year,” said David Young, SOURCES CEO. “We are thrilled to support their outstanding efforts to extend their impact to the autism community in our region.”

“COVID-19 has been very difficult for individuals on the autism spectrum and their families. With the support of SOURCES, we are excited to reach more children, youth and adults on the autism spectrum in Prince George than ever before,” said Canucks Autism Network VP Stephanie Jull, PhD, BCBA-D in a media release.

Also helping CAN to deliver this new program in Northern BC are Kitimat DisABILITY Resources and Christine Danroth, a CAN parent and community partner in Prince Rupert.

Virtual programs are ongoing throughout winter, spring and summer 2021. iPad loans and virtual programs will continue year-round. Interested families can register now at canucksautism.ca/north.

The iPad loan program is supported by the Government of Canada’s Emergency Community Support Fund and Community Foundations of Canada.