GAPS 

SADI is happy to announce a new program at SADI called GAPS. GAPS is the acronym for "Giving Autistics' Parents Support." The program was created to assist families that are struggling with the day to day problems of raising a special needs child.

When a child is diagnosed with autism, everything changes for the family. Their world becomes a whirlwind of doctor visits, therapist visits, assessments and appointments with various agencies. It's not uncommon for one parent to have to quit work and stay home to keep the child on their structured schedule of appointments. Since insurance companies do not cover most medical costs associated with autism, a lot of families begin to experience fianancial hardships. SADI wants to help fill in the gaps for these families.

In October of 2009, SADI hosted a Walk-A-Thon to raise funds for the new program. Despite the unusually cold weather, the turnout was great and we had lots of community support. GAPS, which started in January, will assist families by providing support for the parents and also assist the family in purchasing therapy or play equipment, safety devises, gluten-free foods, etc. GAPS can also assist families with paying a utility bill or other household necessity. We plan to make the walk-a-thon an annual event in October and add more vendors and activities. All money donated will go directly to families in our service area which includes the counties of Cape, Scott, Perry, Mississippi, and Bollinger.

Mark your calendar now for the 2010 SADI Autism Walk-A-Thon October 2, 2010. The walk will be held at SADI in Cape. The time will be from 9:00 to 12:00 noon. Now is the time to start thinking about entering a team to walk and raising money for this worthy cause. We will post more details about the walk in the upcoming months along with suggestions on how your team can raise money.

If you would like more information on the GAPS program, or would like to donate on behalf of someone you know, please contact SADI in Cape at (573) 651-6464 or in Charleston )573) 651-6565. Our toll free number is 1-800-898-7234. You can also email your questions to donna@sadi.org or sarahk@sadi.org. All requests will be considered and assistance will be based on the amount of funds available.