Extend-A-Family Waterloo Region

02/03/2026

With Mental Health First Aid Training, you can make a difference in someone's life. This training will equip you with the skills to support people who are navigating mental health crises and challenges.

Next in-person training is Saturday March 7. Learn more and register: https://www.eafwr.on.ca/training/mental-health-first-aid/

02/02/2026

📢 You’re invited! Join us for our Better Together Speed Dating Event — a free, inclusive social where adults with a disability can meet potential romantic partners. Come meet new people and see where the conversation takes you!💬💕

Free to attend and open to all identities and orientations.

📅 Saturday, February 28, 2026
🕑 2:00–4:00 PM (Doors open at 1 PM)
📍 Extend-A-Family Waterloo Region — 91 Moore Ave, Kitchener, ON

Get all the details and register here: eafwr.on.ca/better-together-speed-dating

02/02/2026

📣 Registration is now open for our March Break Teen Respite Days on March 16 and 18!

Turn March Break into a time to relax, connect, and have fun. Teen Respite Days offers teens aged 13-17 a chance to socialize, enjoy new experiences and unwind in a supportive setting, giving parents piece of mind while they are at work.

Spots will fill quickly. Learn more and register today! https://ow.ly/vF3O50Y4jO9

02/01/2026

February marks Black History Month, a time to honour the legacy and contributions of Black people in Canada and their communities. This year’s theme is “30 Years of Black History Month: Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations — From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries.”

This February at Extend-A-Family Waterloo Region, we are calling this observance Black Heritage Month instead of Black History Month. The term “heritage” broadens the scope beyond history, recognizing the ongoing contributions, culture, and lived experiences of Black communities. It emphasizes honouring the richness of Black identity and its relevance in the present day.

Throughout the month, we’ll be sharing resources and events happening in - stay tuned!

Learn more: https://www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/black-history-month.html

01/31/2026

Do you or a loved one receive Passport, SSAH or Enhanced Respite (MFTD) funding administered by EAFWR?

You can submit expenses all year! Visit our website at https://eafwr.on.ca/forms/family-forms/ for more info and the forms.

01/30/2026

⏰Applications for Autism Direct Funding (ADF) close tomorrow at 5pm.

If you live in and have a family member under the age of 18 with an ASD diagnosis who could benefit from some extra funds for support, apply for ADF today:

NOTE: Funding is NOT available to individuals living outside of the Waterloo Region. Autism Direct Funding is granted through a joint initiative between Sunbeam Developmental Resource Centre (SDRC) and Extend-A-Family Waterloo Region (EAFWR). Families residing in Waterloo Region who have a child und...

01/30/2026

: Did you know that we're part of Shared Living Waterloo Region? We've partnered with Karis Disability Services, oneROOF and Community Justice Initiatives - The Just Community to raise awareness of Shared Living housing opportunities throughout Waterloo Region.

Follow along on Facebook and Instagram to learn more and how you can get involved!

01/29/2026

Youth Hub is back! Developed for teens with disabilities and open to all, Youth Hub is a drop-in space for video games, board games and more! Happening on Mondays from 6-8pm at Kitchener Public Library's Central Library.

No registration required. Learn more: https://kpl.events.mylibrary.digital/event?id=275768

This program is provided in partnership with Kitchener Public Library.

01/29/2026

Give your teen a day that inspires confidence, curiosity, and connection!

SEEDS Day Trips offer teens ages 13–17 exciting opportunities to explore new places, meet new friends, and grow—while receiving the support they need to thrive.

✅ You pick the day. We handle the rest!
📅 Running now through March 26, 2026
👉 Sign up today: https://ow.ly/fzxg50XtHCB

01/29/2026

🗓️ REMINDER: The application deadline for Autism Direct Funding (ADF) is Jan. 31.

If you live in and have a family member under the age of 18 with an ASD diagnosis who could benefit from some extra funds for support, apply for ADF today:

NOTE: Funding is NOT available to individuals living outside of the Waterloo Region. Autism Direct Funding is granted through a joint initiative between Sunbeam Developmental Resource Centre (SDRC) and Extend-A-Family Waterloo Region (EAFWR). Families residing in Waterloo Region who have a child und...

01/28/2026

Meet old friends and make new ones at our Kitchener Open Space Coffee & Chats, happening every Thursday at Fairview Park Mall from 1-3pm.

Open to all abilities, walks of life and interests: https://www.eafwr.on.ca/programs/open-space/

01/28/2026

🔎 Looking for a fun and inclusive way to meet new people? Join us for our Better Together Speed Dating Event — where everyone deserves a great match! ✨

This FREE event is open to all adults with a disability and welcomes all gender identities and sexual orientations. Come connect, chat, and see where the sparks fly in a relaxed, supportive setting. 💬💕

📅 Saturday, February 28, 2026
🕑 2:00–4:00 PM (Doors open at 1 PM)
📍 Extend-A-Family Waterloo Region — 91 Moore Ave, Kitchener, ON

Learn more & register: eafwr.on.ca/better-together-speed-dating