Families Dealing with Autism Eligible for State Grants, Says Causer

HARRISBURG – Rep. Martin Causer (R-Turtlepoint) today announced the availability of mini-grants to support children and adults with an Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and families that include an individual with an ASD. 

The grants are provided by the Bureau of Autism Services within the Department of Public Welfare (DPW).  The maximum mini-grant is $500, and can be used for the following services anytime between March 1 and Aug. 31 for grant applicants of any age:

• Respite care.
• Summer camp programs.
• Autism or advocacy related conferences, workshops or training opportunities.
• Recreational or community programs.
• Safety modifications or adaptations for home and/or community integration.

For applicants age 18 and older, grants can be used to help pay for college-level coursework, personal job coaching, and public transportation to support group meetings or organized social activities.

Applicants must be Pennsylvania residents, have an ASD or have a family member with an ASD, and must not be currently receiving or previously received or enrolled in any family support services for the past 12 months.

Applications must be submitted by mail by April 15.

Grants will be awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, and awardees will be notified by mail beginning in mid-May through the end of June.  For additional information on the mini-grant program or for an application, visit RepCauser.com.