Giant Steps enhances autism program
MPP Billy Pang met with representatives from Giant Steps Toronto/York Region to discuss the transformative impact of two 2024 grants from the Ontario Trillium Foundation (OTF). The grants, totalling $76,700, have enabled Giant Steps to enhance its therapy programs for children with autism in York Region, equipping the centre with new tools and resources to support skill-building and personal growth.
“Through the generous support of the Ontario Trillium Foundation’s Resilient Communities Fund and Capital Grants, Giant Steps has taken a big step forward to enhance its therapy programs with new equipment and resources needed to help children with autism build essential life skills and achieve personal growth,” said Billy Pang, MPP for Markham-Unionville. “I’m proud that the Ontario government is providing funding opportunities to organizations like Giant Steps to make a positive impact in our community.”
In early 2024, Giant Steps received a $48,200 Resilient Communities Fund grant to invest in occupational therapy and exercise equipment, laptops, and upgrades to assessment tools and client management systems. The funding also supports professional development, as well as mental health and wellness workshops for staff and families.
Later in the year, the centre was awarded a $28,500 Capital grant, enabling the purchase of additional therapy equipment, including a climbing wall tower, trampolines, a treadmill, a portable swing, and a snowboard exerciser.
“Our team and families are so grateful for these outstanding upgrades here at our therapy centre for children with autism,” said executive director Raheema Datoo. “These OTF grants are providing our kids with new opportunities for physical activity and access to technology, our staff and families with much-needed mental health supports and our therapists with the most current specialized resources.”
Founded in 1994 by families and professionals, Giant Steps delivers personalized, evidence-based therapies and life skills programming to foster the growth and development of children with autism.
One parent described the centre as “a shining example of the education and therapies autistic kids need and deserve.”
For more information, visit Giant Steps Toronto/York Region
Main photo: MPP Billy Pang receives a big Thank You from Giant Steps executive director Raheema Datoo and one of her students.