Resources
Whether you're a new parent or have been part of this community for years — we're here to help.
Find information about Down Syndrome, helpful links, local services, and support for every stage of the journey.
New & expecting parents
Just received a diagnosis? You're not alone.
A Down Syndrome diagnosis can bring many emotions. LDSA is here to connect you with support, information, and other families who understand what you're going through.
About Down Syndrome
Understanding Down Syndrome
Down Syndrome occurs when a person is born with an extra copy of chromosome 21. There are three types, each with the same characteristics but different causes.
Type 01
Trisomy 21
~95%
The most common type. An extra copy of chromosome 21 is present in every cell of the body.
Type 02
Translocation
2-3%
An extra part or whole copy of chromosome 21 is attached to a different chromosome.
Type 03
Mosaicism
~1%
An extra chromosome 21 is present in only some cells of the body, not all.
1 in 900
Births in Canada
45,000+
Canadians living with DS
47, Not 46
# of chromosomes/cell in a person with DS
At Conception
When the extra chromosome occurs
No matter which type your child has, think of your baby first as a child. Down Syndrome is just part of who they are — not the whole story.
Financial assistance
Therapy bursaries
LDSA offers annual therapy bursaries to help offset the cost of private therapy for individuals with Down Syndrome. There are no age restrictions — any family in our service area is welcome to apply.
10
Bursaries per year
$500
Maximum per recipient
June 1 - Aug 31
Applications open
June
Applications open — download guidelines and submit your application
September
Board reviews all applications
October
Recipients notified — all decisions at the discretion of the Board
Covers speech, occupational, physical, behavioural, and other therapies. All decisions are at the sole discretion of the Board of Directors.
Helpful links
Resources & organizations
A curated collection of organizations, services, and community resources for individuals with Down Syndrome and their families.
Canadian Down Syndrome Society
National organization supporting individuals with DS and their families across Canada.
cdss.ca
Ontario Down Syndrome Association
Provincial organization providing resources and advocacy for families in Ontario.
dsao.ca
National Down Syndrome Society
Leading US advocacy organization with extensive resources for families.
ndss.org
Down Syndrome Diagnosis Network
Support and resources specifically for families who have received a new diagnosis.
dsdiagnosisnetwork.org
Down Syndrome Research Foundation
Research, programs, and resources for individuals with DS and their families.
dsrf.org
Down Syndrome Education Online
Evidence-based educational resources for individuals with DS of all ages.
down-syndrome.org
Thames Valley Children's Centre
Rehabilitation services for children and youth with physical and developmental needs.
tvcc.on.ca
Child and Parent Resource Institute
Specialized services for children and adults with developmental needs in Ontario.
cpri.ca
VON Canada - Family Support
Community health and family support programs across Middlesex and Elgin.
vonmiddlesexelgin.ca
Community Living London
Supporting adults with intellectual disabilities to live, work, and participate in the community.
cll.on.ca
Hutton House
Day programs and community support for adults with developmental disabilities.
huttonhouse.com
L'Arche London
Homes and programs where people with and without intellectual disabilities live together.
larchelondon.ca
Passport Funding Program
Ontario government funding program that helps adults with developmental disabilities pay for the supports they need to live and participate in their communities.
ontario.ca
Access 2 Card Program
A national program that provides individuals with disabilities free or reduced admission for their support person at participating recreational and cultural venues across Canada.
access2card.ca
Disability Tax Credit - Canada Revenue Agency
Information on tax credits and deductions available to persons with disabilities and their families.
canada.ca
Registered Disability Savings Plan
Long-term savings plan to help Canadians with disabilities and their families save for the future.
canada.ca
