KBHN Proposes $50 Million Funding for Children with Neurodevelopmental Disabilities

KBHN recommends a $50 million, 5-year government funding for improved care and outcomes for Canadian children with neurodevelopmental disabilities (NDDs) through KBHN initiatives.

August 25, 2023

Vancouver, British Columbia — In Canada, approximately 10% of children aged 4 to 11 struggle with neurodevelopmental disabilities (NDDs) like Autism Spectrum Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, and Intellectual Disability. Kids Brain Health Network (KBHN) is spearheading innovative programs to bridge the gap between scientific advancements and practical support for these children and their families.

The network’s mission is especially vital considering that many children with NDD fail to achieve their full potential due to deficiencies in provincial and federal government services and systems. While scientific insights underscore the critical role of early brain development, the lack of alignment between these advancements and support services leaves these children and their families underserved.

In response to this, KBHN recommends that the government provide funding in the amount of $50 million over 5 years to ensure and implement early identification, optimal care and better outcomes for children with neurodevelopmental disabilities in Canada through the work of KBHN.

KBHN operates through strategic collaborations with both public and private entities. Its goal is to drive scientific breakthroughs in technologies and interventions tailored to children with NDDs. Particularly noteworthy is KBHN’s dedicated focus on addressing the unique needs of Indigenous children with NDDs, ensuring their inclusion and well-being within this framework.

This funding will be vital to allow KBHN to continue translating scientific discovery into practical, evidence-informed, and easily accessible practices, products, and policy changes, so that these discoveries continue to benefit the children and families who need them. KBHN urges the government to implement the recommendation set out in this submission to address the work needed to take care of children with NDDs and help them reach their fullest potential.

Download the full PDF document on the recommendation to the upcoming federal budget here.

About Kids Brain Health Network (KBHN)

KBHN is a national network that develops and harnesses scientific advances in technologies, interventions and supports with the goal of helping children with neurodevelopmental disabilities and their families live the best lives. The science of children’s brain health is making advancements and KBHN is bridging the gaps between these scientific advances and implementing solutions that directly address the needs of children and families. In delivering on its mission, KBHN is advancing federal responsibilities and priorities aimed at building a healthier future for all kids. More information is available at: https://kidsbrainhealth.ca/