Family Support Services

Family Support Services is designed to provide information and guidance to families of those with developmental disabilities. We also provide caregiver matching for respite care.

What Is Family Support?

We provide information and support to families with children with developmental disabilities. Family support workers are here to assist you to learn about and access services available at DDA and in the community. For every individual and family, the role of family support will be unique. We will do our best to present you with a framework that allows you to navigate through the many challenges you or your family may experience when finding options for care, relief or community support.

DDA also has a resource library of books and videos available at our head office.

This program is supported entirely by grants and fundraising. If you would like to make a donation to the Family Support & Advocacy Program, please visit our Make a Financial Donation page or contact us at 604-273-9778.

When Might You Need Our Family Support Services?

  • At times of transition in your child’s life – for example, the transition from preschool to kindergarten, from elementary to high school, from high school to college, etc
  • When you need to advocate for services or financial assistance
  • When you need to understand existing systems such as the school system, Ministry of Child and Family Development or Community Living BC
  • When you want to connect with another family who understands what you are experiencing
  • When you want to suggest a workshop or speaker, or learn about upcoming workshops
  • When you feel alone or unheard in your efforts to advocate for your child

Family Support Services Brochure

For more information about our program and services, download our brochure below.

If you have any questions about these or any other services call Angela Gagne at 604-327-9111.

The Developmental Disabilities Association gratefully acknowledges the financial support of the Leola Purdy Foundation in helping fund Family Support & Advocacy.

Respite Services

Sometimes you just need a break. Respite Services is here for you. We will arrange for a caregiver to take care of your loved one with a developmental disability. Whether it’s a short break to get some much-needed rest, or a planned vacation to get away for a few weeks, respite gives parents and primary caregivers a chance to relax and enjoy some time to themselves.

Respite is a vital part of the continuum of family services intended to support family stability and reduce stress.

All caregivers are certified in First Aid & CPR and undergo a thorough screening process including criminal record clearances, background checks, interviews and references. Caregivers that intend to provide respite in their own homes must also participate in a home study to ensure suitability and safety. Families also have the opportunity to meet and approve the respite caregiver before the service takes place.

Respite Services Referrals

Referrals to DDA Respite Services must be made by either the MCFD, or CLBC. We can also offer services to those with private funding, please call us for more information at 604-273-9778 or email us at respite@develop.bc.ca

For Children ages 6-18 years old

The Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD)

For adults over 19 years old

Community Living BC (CLBC)

Respite Caregivers

If you are interested in becoming a respite caregiver, please send your cover letter and resume to respite@develop.bc.ca

Respitality Program

Working with participating hotels, our Respitality Program provides parents and caregivers a chance to rejuvenate and enjoy a complimentary overnight stay at a local hotel in Vancouver and Richmond. Please note this program is available to DDA members only. To be eligible for this program, please visit our membership page to sign up to be a DDA member.

Family Support and Information Groups

Our Family Support Groups meet monthly in Vancouver. It’s a great opportunity to come hear an interesting speaker and connect with other parents. DDA contributes a space for meetings, handouts, meeting ideas, childcare (when requested), and more.

For more information about a specific Family Support Group, please see below: