Stack: Mini-Grants Available to Autistic Individuals

PHILADELPHIA, MARCH 2, 2010 - State mini-grants are now available to support children and adults living with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their families, according to state Sen. Mike Stack.

Autism is a neurobiological disorder that affects a person’s ability to communicate and relate to others. There are more than 20,000 individuals living with autism in Pennsylvania.

“Many of these individuals don’t have access to support services,” Stack said. “These mini-grants give autistic children, adults and their families the support they need to grow and thrive in our communities.”

The funding may be used for respite or child care, summer camp programs and special events at educational venues, autism or advocacy related conferences, workshops or training opportunities, community programs or safety modifications or adaptations for home or community.

Applicants must be a Pennsylvania resident; have autism spectrum disorder or have a family member ASD; and not currently receiving family support services.

Applications must be postmarked by April 16. For more information and an application, visit www.autisminpa.org and click on “2010 Mini Grant Information” or call the Department of Public Welfare Bureau of Autism Services at 1-888-359-7689.

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