Story
Seeking assistance to support a trial home placement of a 5 yo non-verbal autistic child. Services are limited in the area for the child & his developmental needs (non-verbal autistic) has added an extra layer of stress to the family. For the last 8 months, the parents have been traveling for services & visitation each week. The mother is stay-at-home as the child cannot be placed in daycare. She is wanting to get out in the community with the child; however, the financial strain they endured over months has made it difficult. We are seeking a variety of items to support the family. Once custody of the child returns to the parents, they will be able to access additional support like SNAP; however, they cannot do so while the child is on a trial home placement. Items needed include: baby wipes (child is not toilet trained), cleaning supplies (disinfectant, paper towels, Swiffer wet clothes, trash bags, dish detergent), toilet paper, paper plates, gas cards, sponsorship for pool pass for 2 (child and mother), and a kid's sensory body sock (he wears a child's size 10). Regarding cleaning supplies, the child often throws items around, pours things on the floor, etc., creating a significant amount of cleaning for the family. They could also use laundromat funds as their apartment does not have laundry facilities, including laundry detergent.
Updated on June 01, 2025 by an Agency Worker
Thank you to those who have already responded. The family has indicated that they no longer are in need of the pool passes, as there is concern that the child may experience sensory issues at the pool. They would prefer to try it out before getting passes. But the family is still in need of assistance with gas cards and funds for the laundromat. While cleaning products were supplied, that is something they could always use. The parents continue to do an amazing job during this trial home placement and DSS appreciates your support of the family.