News

April 17, 2009

Funds aimed at autism center

Casey unveils $143,000 for Regional Center for Autism and Spectrum Disorders.

Times Leader staff

SCRANTON – U.S. Senator Bob Casey, D-Scranton, was in his hometown Thursday to announce $143,000 in federal funds for the creation of an advanced Regional Center for Autism and Spectrum Disorders at the Friendship House of Lackawanna County.

The center will provide resources and support for families with children with autism. The new center will include a community resource center, training wing, pre-vocational opportunities for older children and after-school programs for young people with autism.

“Children and adults with autism spectrum disorders and their families have long struggled to get the services and treatment they need to lead rich and productive lives,” Casey said. “This center will help children get the services and treatment they need for the most positive life outcomes, for young adults and adults to have the support they need for satisfying and independent lives and for families to have the peace of mind to provide and afford the proven treatments that will allow their children and loved ones to reach their fullest potential.”

Friendship House has offered autism services since 2003, beginning with early intensive behavioral intervention for toddlers from 18 months old. Today, the Autism Center provides state-of-the-art, comprehensive therapy for preschool children to young adults, with services offered in the home, school and community setting.

“Sen. Casey has long been a friend to Friendship House and more importantly to children and families” said Robert H. Angeloni, Friendship House president. “He continues to keep children’s needs at the forefront, as did his father, Gov. Robert P. Casey.

“The whole autism community applauds him for his sensitivity in championing this cause, and introducing legislation to address the needs of families affected by autism spectrum disorders.”

Casey recently introduced legislation that would create a comprehensive strategy to address the needs of families affected by autism spectrum disorder. The Autism Treatment Acceleration Act authorizes federal funding for a wide range of service, treatment, support and research initiatives and requires health insurers to provide coverage for the diagnosis and treatment of autism.

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