Grant and Funding Programs Offered by Ataxia Canada

To improve the well-being of people affected by hereditary ataxia and to support promising research for treatments, while bringing together the ataxia community across Canada.

Ataxia Canada is a Foundation.

Ataxia Canada was founded in 1972.

Ataxia Canada's official website is https://lacaf.org.

Ataxia Canada: Supporting the Ataxia Community for Over 50 Years What is Ataxia Canada? Ataxia Canada – Claude St-Jean Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the well-being of people living with familial ataxia and supporting research efforts. Founded in 1972, the foundation is at the heart of a vibrant community of individuals of all ages and backgrounds affected by one of the many forms of ataxia in Canada. Ataxia is a degenerative neuromuscular disease that impacts hundreds of young people across Quebec and Canada and remains incurable to this day. Types of Ataxia Supported The foundation offers information and support related to a wide range of ataxias, including: Ataxia of Friedreich Beauce Ataxia Charlevoix-Saguenay Spastic Ataxia Spinocerebellar Ataxia Ataxia-Telangiectasia SCA27B Ataxia with oculomotor apraxia Episodic Ataxia Recessive and Dominant Ataxias Mission and Activities Ataxia Canada’s primary mission is to enhance the quality of life for people affected by ataxia, while also contributing to ongoing research. Over the last 50 years, the foundation has become a source of inspiration and hope, sharing real-life stories of those living courageously with the disease, driving forward scientific advances, and acting as a central hub for people and resources nationwide. Financial Support Program A significant initiative by Ataxia Canada is its innovative financial support program. This crowdfunding model enables families in need to seek help from friends, family, and colleagues to fund vital equipment and services that are not covered by public health systems. The foundation matches funds raised by these families, up to $5,000, directly assisting those facing financial barriers due to ataxia. Commitment to Research Ataxia Canada places a high value on scientific progress. By partnering with other foundations, organizations, companies, and government bodies, Ataxia Canada helps fund and facilitate clinical trials in Canada. For example, in 2021, a clinical trial at CHUM and Sainte-Justine hospitals began evaluating a new treatment for Friedreich’s ataxia — the first of its kind in Canada in 15 years. How to Get Involved Ataxia Canada encourages everyone, including those affected by ataxia, their families, researchers, and the general public, to get involved by becoming a member, volunteering, or donating. Every action helps advance research, support affected families, and improve lives. Contact Information Ataxia Canada – Claude St-Jean Foundation 4388 Saint-Denis Street, Suite 200 Montreal, QC, H2J 2L1 Phone: 514-321-8684 | Toll-Free: 1-855-321-8684 Email: ataxie@lacaf.org Join Ataxia Canada as they continue to make substantial advances and support the community in the ongoing fight against ataxia.