STACK: MINI-GRANTS AVAILABLE FOR INDIVIDUALS LIVING WITH AUTISM 

HARRISBURG, JUNE 19, 2007 – New funding, in the form of state mini-grants, is now available for individuals living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), according to state Sen. Mike Stack.

“Over the past decade, the number of people who are diagnosed with a form of autism has skyrocketed,” Stack said. “I encourage individuals with autism and their families to take advantage of this new funding and see if they are eligible.”

Autism is a neurological disorder that affects a person's ability to communicate and relate to others. In the past 15 years, the number of Pennsylvanians diagnosed with autism or an autism spectrum disorder has risen by more than 2,000 percent.

The Department of Public Welfare has already provided grants to nearly 1,200 Pennsylvania families. Now, the department is making available 100 additional mini-grants.

Families may be eligible for mini-grants of up to $500, which can be used for support services and activities like child care, summer camp/recreation programs or home modifications. Grant applications must be submitted to the Department of Public Welfare's Bureau of Autism Services by June 29.

To be eligible, individuals or families must be a US citizen, as well as a resident of Pennsylvania not currently receiving other family support services, including waiver-funded services, family-driven support services, services funded under individual support plans or county-based funds from MH/MR or other similar services or funding.

To learn more about applying for a min-grant or for more information on autism initiatives in Pennsylvania, visit www.dpw.state.pa.us/disable/autismservices or call, toll-free,
1-866-497-6898.

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