Local Donation Supports Children with Autism in Parry Sound

Local Donation Supports Children with Autism in Parry Sound

Hands TheFamilyHelpNetwork.ca (Hands) graciously accepted a donation from local business woman Tracey Gowland, who raised over $800.00 to support children and youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Parry Sound.

Hands TheFamilyHelpNetwork.ca offers a variety of community services for families in Parry Sound, including Autism Services for children, youth and families, all from their location at 2 May Street.

“This donation will help us purchase well-needed children’s therapeutic equipment to enhance services for our clients in Parry Sound,” says Dr. Karen Grattan-Miscio, Senior Manager of Autism Services at Hands. “We are very grateful to Tracey and the Parry Sound community for their generosity and support of our services and our client families.”

Gowland’s campaign was part of Stella & Dot’s April Autism Awareness Campaign, in which Gowland sold jewelry and generously donated her commissions to Hands. “I chose Hands in Parry Sound as it is part of my community and I wanted to give back”, said Gowland. “I was very touched by how many families within our small town are affected by Autism; I wanted to help bring awareness and funds to this worthy cause.”

Last year, Hands supported 25 children and youth with Autism, and their families, in the Parry Sound area and is currently looking at ways to enhance services. Dr. Grattan-Miscio stated “It is important for us to be a part of our communities and to understand the needs of our families locally. If families or community members have ideas or questions about how Hands’ Autism Services can help, I encourage them to call us at 1.800.668.8555 ext. 1333; we would be happy to speak with them.”

Hands has recently extended its free virtual Autism Consultations for families every Tuesday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm throughout the summer. The initiative was set to end in May, but due to popular demand, the service is being offered as an ongoing complimentary support to families during the summer. To make arrangements for a same-day virtual session, parents may call Hands at 1.800.668.8555 ext. 1333, starting at 9:00 am the morning of each Clinic.

To learn more about Hands TheFamilyHelpNetwork.ca and available services, please visit www.TheFamilyHelpNetwork.ca or call 1.800.668.8555.

Photo: Kelsey Castron (left), Behaviour Therapist, Hands TheFamilyHelpNetwork.ca accepts donation from Tracey Gowland.