Manitoba Family Services and Labour
About Autism Spectrum Disorders
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) refers to a group of developmental disorders that affect a person's verbal and non-verbal communcation and social interaction. People with ASD may be affected in different ways and the effects may range from mild to severe.
About Thrive!
There is a growing awareness of autism in Manitoba. Many resources have already been developed, but more can be done to help those who are affected and their families. Manitoba is committed to ensuring that everyone affected by ASD can access necessary supports and services.
That's what Thrive! is all about.
Note: This site uses the terms ASD and autism interchangably
Working Together, Building Momentum
Manitoba's investment to support children with autism has grown by more than 800 per cent since 1999
In 2011/12, the province of Manitoba will invest approximately $32.4 million for services to children with autism and their families:
- approximately $3.0 million to support families of children with autism through the Children's disABILITY Services program
- $6.6 million to support the Pre-school and School-age Applied Behaviour Analysis programs
- approximately $22.8 million in funding specifically for children with autism in schools
And that's only the beginning. Manitoba's Autism Strategy will continue to be guided by input from stakeholders.
This year, we will work with the community to get feedback on the Thrive! Strategy and to further develop ideas and priorities.
Work will begin to provide more information to families about autism and its effect on children. We will also work with community partners to improve access to timely diagnosis, assessment and early intervention therapies, and appropriate educational programming throughout Manitoba.
