New non-profit launches to support residents with autism

LEDUC -- A new local organization has been formed with the goal of providing support for residents with autism.

The Autism Leduc Association was launched earlier this month and will provide various programs and services. The organization's founder Angel Lee says their work has included the creation of a free community map of sensory-friendly spaces in Leduc and the operation of Kitty's Life Skills for children aged five to nine. They will also provide new sensory bags for those with autism and ADHD.

"One of our sensory bags will possibly go to first responders," said Lee. "We're working with the police and victim services to have the sensory bags available for anyone who really needs them for those moments when they're vulnerable."

The sensory bags will consist of noise-reducing earmuffs, about six fidgets, temporary tattoos drawn by a local young artist, a visual calm down card, and room for a Magic Bag or Warmy rice bag. Local businesses can buy a bag from the Autism Leduc Association and keep it on hand, while parents who want a bag of their own can buy one for $30. 

"That's where my heart is -- supporting families for those who are unable to get support, because right now there's kind of a gap between the government providing support with paid respite and those who are diagnosed and undiagnosed," said Lee. "There's a gap of no funding and no support. Autism Leduc will fill that gap -- we're here for the parents and here for the families."

Autism Leduc will also publish The Leduc Times, a quarterly online newspaper made by local autistic children and adults. Prior to the launch of the new organization, Lee built the sensory room at City Life Church. She says the room serves as a calm space inside the church, for children who need it during a service, so their families can stay instead of leaving.