Role of Surrey Place Foundation in the funding ecosystem
Surrey Place Foundation is the charitable arm of Surrey Place, a Toronto-based organization that supports people of all ages with developmental disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disabilities and visual impairments. Since 1989, the Foundation has provided vital funding that enables Surrey Place to continue and enhance its clinical and community programs, especially services and initiatives that are not fully covered by government funding.
Through the generosity of individual donors, corporations and other funders, the Foundation raises money to improve the quality of life of clients and their families. Its funding helps launch and expand innovative programs, strengthen existing services and provide toys, tools and specialized equipment for people with complex needs.
Key funding mechanisms and areas of support
The Foundation has developed specific funds that channel financial support directly to clients and front-line teams. The Client Needs Fund provides urgent, one-time financial assistance to clients experiencing economic challenges related to their diagnosis or disability. Surrey Place clinicians can request support on behalf of clients to purchase equipment, devices, or services that promote safety, independence and daily living, such as communication devices, adaptive seating, protective gear or specialized beds.
For children aged 0 to 17, the Treasure Chest Fund helps remove financial barriers to accessing clinically appropriate toys and equipment that foster developmental and behavioural milestones. Clinicians request items like fine-motor activities, educational games, sensory toys and weighted blankets to support therapeutic goals and empower parents as primary educators of their children.
In addition, the Foundation supports specialized initiatives such as the Symphonic Passion Choir, which offers adults with developmental disabilities inclusive opportunities for creative expression, social connection and community engagement.
Supported audiences and overall impact
Funding from Surrey Place Foundation primarily benefits Surrey Place clients, their families and, indirectly, staff teams who can offer more flexible and responsive services. Support reaches infants, children, youth and adults in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area who face developmental, intellectual or sensory-related challenges, including autism spectrum disorder, Down syndrome and fetal alcohol spectrum disorder.
The Foundation’s work focuses on three broad challenges: meeting growing and increasingly complex client needs, keeping programs flexible enough to respond to diverse families, and bridging gaps in services and funding for those facing financial hardship. By addressing these issues, the Foundation contributes to more inclusive, independent and healthy lives for people with disabilities.
Governance and accountability
The Foundation is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors composed of community leaders with expertise in finance, human resources, healthcare, law and governance. This board oversees fundraising strategy, risk, and the allocation of funds to projects and client-focused initiatives. The close relationship with Surrey Place’s leadership and the publication of annual reports and financial statements help ensure transparency and accountability in how donor dollars are used.