Autism Programs at Risk in City Budget Cuts

Author: mom_to_one, 06 19th, 2008

Autism Programs at Risk in City Budget CutsNEW YORK — Parents, children and care providers gathered on the steps of City Hall Wednesday protesting budget cuts which could end programs provided for children with autism.

Council Member David Weprin says that autism has reached epidemic proportions. The Centers for Disease Control states that 1 in 150 children are now born with autism.

“While we cannot offer autistic children and their families a cure for the disorder, with this initiative, we can ensure that they can enjoy a better quality of life by providing them with year-round services that support their educational and social needs,” said Weprin.

The City Council’s “1 in 150″ Autism Services Initiative offers about $1.5 million in funds that provide services for children with autism who otherwise do not qualify for publicly funded programs, and educate thousands of parents and caregivers through conferences and workshops.

The program has given 230 children after-school programs, weekend respite, a basketball league, holiday activities, parent and teacher training, bilingual services, a crisis-intervention program, kids clubs, autism workshops, and outreach and awareness activities.

Parents fear if budget cuts are approved their children will lose these programs and will suffer a blow in autism education.


2 Responses to “Autism Programs at Risk in City Budget Cuts”

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