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Understanding Your Funding Options

Funding & Supports

Understanding Your Funding Options

Navigating funding and eligibility can feel overwhelming, especially when you are just beginning to explore support for your child. There are several funding options available to support children during their early years. Some funding is accessed through Beacon Heights as part of a child’s educational program, while other supports are applied for directly by families. Our team is here to help you understand the options that may be available and guide you through the process.

Funding Options at a Glance

Each funding program supports different needs. Here’s a simple look at what each one provides and how it works.

For Children Requiring Significant Educational Supports

Program Unit Funding (PUF)

Program Unit Funding supports eligible children with severe disabilities or developmental delays who require additional support to participate and learn within an Early Childhood Services program.

  • Available from 2 years, 8 months
  • Until 6 years old
  • Maximum of 3 years of funding
  • Beacon Heights applies on your behalf

For Children with Mild to Moderate Educational Needs

Mild/Moderate Supports

Mild/Moderate supports help eligible children who have identified developmental, communication, physical, sensory, emotional, behavioural, or other needs that affect their learning and participation.

  • Available from 2 years, 8 months
  • Until 6 years old
  • Maximum of 3 years of funding
  • Beacon Heights applies on your behalf

For Children Learning English as an Additional Language

English as an Additional Language (EAL)

EAL support helps children who are developing their English language skills participate fully in learning and build confidence in communication.

  • Available from 3 years, 8 months
  • Until 18 years old
  • Length of funding varies
  • Beacon Heights applies on your behalf

Support Beyond the Classroom

Family Support for Children with Disabilities (FSCD)

FSCD provides supports to eligible families of children with disabilities to help with in-home and community needs. Supports may include child care, respite, aides, counselling, and other approved services.

Quick Comparison

Here’s a side-by-side look at the key differences between each funding option.

PUF

Who Applies?
Beacon Heights ECS
Primary Focus
Educational support
Age Range
2 years, 8 months – 6 years
Maximum Duration
Up to 3 years
Delivered Through
ECS program

Mild/Moderate

Who Applies?
Beacon Heights ECS
Primary Focus
Educational support
Age Range
2 years, 8 months – 6 years
Maximum Duration
Up to 3 years
Delivered Through
ECS program

EAL

Who Applies?
Beacon Heights ECS
Primary Focus
English language support
Age Range
3 years, 8 months – 18 years
Maximum Duration
Varies
Delivered Through
ECS program

FSCD

Who Applies?
Parent/Guardian
Primary Focus
Home and community support
Age Range
0 – 18 years
Maximum Duration
Varies
Delivered Through
Government of Alberta
Beacon Heights ECS building exterior

Not Sure Which Support Applies to Your Child?

We’ll Help You Understand the Next Step.

You don’t need to navigate educational funding on your own. Our team can learn more about your child, review any existing documentation, and help you understand which supports may be available to your family.

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