Bethesda Foundation
Supporting children, youth, and adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities
How Your Donation Helps
When you donate to Bethesda, 100% of your donation goes directly to helping the people we serve and the services we provide.
Psychological Assessments
Offering New
Services
Research and
Development
Program
Expansion
Ellie’s Story: From Diagnosis to Triumph
When Ellie was just 13 months old, I sensed something was different. At 23 months, the official Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) diagnosis came, and while I was prepared, my husband struggled with grief. It felt isolating as family and friends didn’t understand. We were overwhelmed and unsure how to help her.
That’s when Bethesda came into our lives. From assessments to therapy, they became our guiding light. Ellie’s behaviours were challenging—she couldn’t sit still, focus, or speak—but the Bethesda team embraced her with patience and expertise. Their workshops taught us parenting strategies, how to navigate ASD services, and how to create a supportive home environment.
Today, Ellie is a joyful, quirky child who communicates, makes friends, and loves life. Bethesda didn’t just help Ellie; they gave us the tools and confidence to guide her toward a brighter future.
Our journey isn’t over, but with Bethesda, we know we’re never alone.
"Bethesda and their staff have been an invaluable resource during these difficult times. The staff are fun and excited to greet the kids each week. They do their very best to be inclusive and support my child virtually, but feels just the same as in person"
Parent of a Child accessing services at Bethesda
The Impact Of Donations
1. Providing 200 Psychological Assessments at No Charge to Families
Access to psychological assessments is critical for early intervention, diagnosis, and tailored support plans for children and individuals with developmental needs.
These assessments empower families by providing clarity about their child’s needs, enabling better access to resources and services.
2. Expansion of Bethesda’s Greenhouse Program at Fly Road
The Greenhouse Program at Fly Road provides individuals with disabilities opportunities to develop vocational and life skills in a supportive environment.
This initiative fosters independence and boosts confidence among participants by involving them in horticulture, teamwork, and business operations.
3. Partnership with Brock University for Free Applied Behaviour Analysis (ABA)
In collaboration with Brock University, Bethesda Services has offered free ABA services to more than 30 families.
ABA is a widely recognized, evidence-based intervention for children with autism, focusing on improving communication, social, and adaptive skills.
Bethesda Foundation Inc., a registered charity in Ontario, Canada, reflects the Board of Directors' passion for supporting children, youth, and adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities. The foundation raises funds to fulfill the community's unmet needs and promotes the programs developed by Bethesda.
Bethesda has operated as a charitable organization since 1937. We greatly appreciate the contributions of our many supporters, without whom we could not carry out our mission.
Bethesda Foundation Inc. Charitable Registration Number: 118806587 RR 0001