What is Respite?

Respite (respite) n. = an interval of relief during a period of work

For parents, caregivers and families who have a child or children diagnosed with ASD, the demands of care can become overwhelming.  Given the particular nature of the needs of a child with ASD, many are reluctant to leave their child in someone else’s care.   This means the stress of assisting and nurturing a child with significant needs will continue to make family life challenging for many parents and siblings.

Respite care and programs offer a period of relief and rest for those in the caregiving role.  The ability to step back and away from the 24/7 responsibilities of caregiving – even for a few hours each month – can provide significant benefits for the entire family unit. 

FOOTPRINTS is here to help provide reasonably priced, accessible respite care for families in Durham Region who have children diagnosed with ASD.  Respite care is provided by trained volunteers in a group setting under the guidance and supervision of a qualified Program Consultant.  Sessions range from 3-hours to 5-hours (depending on the location and space availability) and are centrally located in Pickering and Whitby.

Hours of Operation:

Pickering Location
Respite is offered weekly at Dunbarton-Fairport United Church, 1066 Dunbarton Road, Pickering (Hwy #2 & Dixie Road).  Sessions are offered every second Friday evenings from 5:00pm – 8:00pm and Saturdays from 9:00am – 2:00pm. 

For more information about our Pickering location and/or to register your child, please contact Program Consultant Denise Wilson at 905-420-0388 ex. 1.

Whitby Location
Respite is offered every other Saturday at St. Mark’s United Church, 201 Centre Street South, Whitby (Dundas Street & Brock Street) from 9:00am – 12:00pm.

For more information about our Whitby location and/or to register your child, please contact Program Consultant Emma Gayton at 905-420-0388 ex. 4.