Help for Autism Families with flooding from Harvey. Safety #1 issue. (Will continue to update with more info)

Please share this information with your friends in Texas and Louisiana who are dealing with the flooding from Harvey.
Particularly those affect by autism. Autism families can still request assistance through Unlocking Autism, you can donate as well. All money goes directly to families

http://blog.thepowerofonemarch.org/safety-is-job-1-for-autism-community-in-txla-asdplan/

More info from a friend on the ground in TX: Fwd: FEMA is paying for hotel rooms. Heres the number: 800.621.3362. PASS THE WORD TO OTHER FAMILY AND FRIENDS WHO ARE IN NEED OR MAY KNOW OTHERS IN NEED...

From another friend well versed in this situation: "Correct - get in a hotel room and register for assistance. They cannot kick you out once you are in."

And as much as we all dislike Autism Speaks, they do have a small grant for these situations, but usually run out. The quicker you apply the better: https://www.autismspeaks.org/family-services/financial-assistance

"AutismSpeaks Cares

AutismSpeaks Cares provides support for families affected by autism during natural disasters and other catastrophic life events. The grant program helps families to cover costs associated with critical expenses related to the well-being of the family member with autism on a case-by-case basis. Please note, we DO NOT fund monthly recurring costs such as rent, mortgages, utilities, or car payments.

To learn more and complete an application to determine final eligibility, families must first speak with a representative from the Autism Response Team. Contact them directly by calling 888-288-4762, or en Español 888-772-9050, or emailing [email protected]"

ETA More Info: "SPECIAL NEEDS SHELTER IN HOUSTON: Just spoke with Pastor Norma Puga at Lakewood Church in Houston (Joel Osteen's church) who has opened a special needs [shelter] & is receiving autism families. They have plenty of availability & we are sending a team of paraprofessional volunteers to provide backup supports." --Shelley from Unlocking Autism

From Erica Harris "Lakewood church has opened up their Champions Club for kids, teens and adults with SPECIAL NEEDS who have been displaced due to Harvey. Our Champions Club is equipped with sensory, motor and tactile items and rooms that will help your child during this stressful time. Plus we have volunteers who have an amazing heart and love with special needs."