A growing number of theme parks, special attractions and hotels are introducing autism training and sensory guides that highlight triggers, providing resources in times of need and assuring families they won’t be judged.
In a complaint filed in Baltimore City Circuit Court, Maryland Attorney General Brian Frosh has alleged that Delaware-based AdvoServ, Inc., a residential and educational facility for students with developmental disabilities, neglected students’ medical needs, practiced cruel forms of discipline and sometimes failed to provide teachers for classes.
The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) is offering $150 million in grants to provide affordable housing for people with disabilities through its Mainstream Housing Choice Voucher Program. One of the program’s stated priorities is creating community living opportunities for individuals with disabilities currently in institutions or at risk of institutionalization.
Although federal legislation that would abolish the subminimum wage has seen little progress, five state legislatures are considering bills to curtail or eliminate the practice and similar bills have already passed in five states and several large cities. Advocates hope the changes contribute to a critical mass leading to federal action.
Autism Delaware is expanding its outreach into northern and central Delaware’s Latino community with the community-based Autism Care Team Program, supported by a recent grant from the Arsht-Cannon Foundation. The organization plans to hire an additional bilingual family support provider.