World Autism Awareness Day

By Shannon Wise | Apr. 2, 2019

In Canada, more than a quarter of a million families are touched by autism spectrum disorders.

The Salvation Army London Village Respite Program supports over 200 families; approximately 50 have a child with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).

Seven-year-old Elijah has attended its ASD program for over a year. It has been a huge relief for his mother, Emily, who says he loves the program.

“It allows me to breathe a little bit better to know he’s in a place that is safe for him, and he’s able to have fun at the same time.”

Emily has three other children; age three, five and nine. She was working a full-time job until she recently cut back to 28 hours a week, temporarily, in the best interest of her family.

“We (parents) get to have a break…from time to time a different environment is a good thing for Elijah,” says Emily.

With a smile on her face and calmness in her voice, Emily recalls the first time she and her husband took Elijah to the London Village.

“We didn’t know how he was going to react,” says Emily. The first time we took him he couldn’t wait to go back, he was so excited. The second time, as soon as I pulled into the parking lot he got so excited. It tells me he enjoys the program when I see a reaction like that from him.”

Emily is extremely impressed with the staff at the London Village, which brings her a greater sense of comfort.

“It’s not only the program, but the staff as well. They make you feel welcome, always have a smile on their face, make things easy on you. The fact you already have struggles with a child with special needs…the staff is amazing.”

The Salvation Army London Village ASD Programs are for children and youth between the ages of 5-17 years.

For more program information or to arrange a tour:

Sherry Rowland, Program Director

519. 455. 4810 x. 327

srowland@salvationarmyvillage.ca