Health Dept.Grants Ryan Woods Autism Foundation $5k

The grant from Middletown's Health Department will go towards an after school program.

Press release by founder and grandmother of Ryan, Brenda Wilson:

"In an economy that appears to be traveling down the road of no return, there is still a Lil’ City called Middletown that cares about its people. “I am so proud to be a resident of this City, said Wilson, Foundation founder. This generous donation from the City of Middletown’s Public Health Department speaks volumes about their philanthropic spirit, and their desire to support children with intellectual disabilities.” “Providing educational opportunities to meet the evolving needs of students on the spectrum is essential to help those lead fulfilling lives of productivity and independence.”

“They have made a lasting impact on our students and programs. This grant will allow us to share our story and the many wonderful services our after-school program offer students of residents in the city of Middletown” said Ian Woods, Program Director.

When RWAF’s founder made her application for the grant and explained the purpose of continuing to enhance socialization, life skills, building relationships with peers, peer mentors in the lives of our youth affected by autism, the City of Middletown’s Public Health Department stepped up to the plate to make things a little easier. RWAF offers an after-school program and is the only concept like it in the state of Connecticut where only youth with autism, Aspergers and other Special Needs come, feel safe in a warm and beautiful location. ‘Our boys and girls who are different – and, different is good -- want a place to meet up with friends, play basketball, dance, learn boundaries, healthy eating, laugh and identify with others like them.’ This is their Teen Center, said Wilson.”

The founder, Brenda Wilson, notified her Committee Members immediately -- “The grant I applied for from the City of Middletown Public Health Department was approved and we received the $5K check today.” “Our after-school autism Teen Center needs every penny of it” exclaimed Wilson. “All I can say is that dreams still come true and every life has reason.”

If you would like to know how you can help, please contact the Ryan Woods Autism Foundation at rwaf@comcast.net - call 860-346-8777.

We need furnishings; computer equipment; supplies and nutritional foods (gluten-free and sugar-free) they eat like grown men and women after school. And, “Keep on sending up those prayers.”"

Ryan Woods Autism Foundation is located at:

One Riverview Center, lower level (Take Dingwall Ave.)

Suite 102 (behind the Middletown Police Station)

Middletown, CT 06457

www.ryanwoodsautismfoundation.org * (860) 346-8777

2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. ~~ Mon-Fri (by appointment)

The group held a music festival in August on the South Green.