I come across many sites that are beneficial to families when they need a helping hand or a newly diagnosed family needs a mentor, finding support groups and resources for your state.

United States Directory of Related Services - This is a starting point for families needing to know where to turn. The site is a good one for support groups and mentors to keep handy when assisting families in other states and needing a resource.

Parent Resource Directory for Canada - This site is for transitioning into adult services that includes respite, housing and recreation resources.

Blanket Exchange Program - This site makes custom weighted blankets that are sized for individuals. You can trade in a blanket for another size or donate a blanket when it no longer fits or is useful.

TACA Families In Need - This is a resource specifically for families that reside in California at least two years. This is known as the Families in Crisis Scholarship Fund. Total annual household income must be under $80,000. Payment goes directly to the vendors and not families.

Home Healthcare Loans through Jewish Free Loan Association - this is a resource for medical supplies, respite providers, companions and nurses. They are interest free loans that require a cosigner. There is also a children with special needs loan program

Autism Family Resources Assistance - this is not just for families with a child on the autism spectrum. They help all special needs across the country. The maximum is a one-time grant of $500 per family. Funds are sent to vendors or providers of service, not to the families.

Autism Tree Project Mentor Program - this is based in San Diego, California. The mentors are available in English and Spanish language.

Spectrum Training Systems Inc. - You can opt to be notified of future conferences via email. The tentative schedule for 2007 is already posted listing for Minneapolis, Orlando, Cleveland, Anaheim, Columbus and Atlanta.

Autism Conferences - There is a conference scheduled for next month in San Francisco, plus they post speaker handouts. These are available from the summer conference in Los Angeles in pdf format.

Free Medical Resources

LifeBridge Free Life Insurance Program

Educational Autism Tips for Families 71 page resourceful ebook for families entering the school system with a recent autism diagnosis. Find out what issues take place over the course of a school day and meet these challenges head on.



A Comprehensive Guide to Managing Autism

Autism Related Publications