Family Initiative Deploys Nation’s First Sensory Trailer for Second Time in 10 Days to Support Families Impacted by Hurricane Milton
Sarasota, FL, [October 10, 2024], Family Initiative, a Southwest Florida-based nonprofit dedicated to supporting children, adolescents, and young adults diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), has deployed the nation’s first-of-its-kind sensory trailer to provide essential aid to families affected by both Hurricane Helene and, most recently, Hurricane Milton.
The Sensory Trailer was initially deployed throughout Florida in areas significantly impacted by Hurricane Helene, including the towns of Mayo, Horseshoe Beach, and Saint Petersburg. Now, just 10 days after its initial deployment, the trailer has been redeployed to Sarasota to assist families in the wake of Hurricane Milton. This mobile unit is designed to offer crucial support for families with loved ones diagnosed with ASD, who face additional challenges during natural disasters.
In just three days after Hurricane Helene, Family Initiative assisted 650 families, providing children and youth with a safe space to find normalcy and joy while managing their anxieties amidst difficult circumstances. The Sensory Trailer also provided parents with a much-needed respite, as it is deployed alongside vital recovery resources such as FEMA, DSNAP, Hope Florida, and other agencies. By partnering with these organizations, Family Initiative has created a framework that offers both immediate relief and long-term recovery assistance for families in crisis.
David Brown, LCSW, President of Family Initiative, emphasized the importance of the Sensory Trailer: “We’re grateful to bring this mobile resource to families impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The sensory trailer offers a much-needed safe space for children diagnosed with ASD, while also connecting parents to essential recovery resources during this challenging time.”
About the Sensory Trailer
The Sensory Trailer is uniquely equipped to provide children diagnosed with ASD with a calming environment during emergencies. Inside the trailer, children will find sensory toys, bean bag cushions, games, air conditioning, and WiFi. Certified clinicians, specially trained to support families with special needs, staff the trailer to ensure both children and parents are cared for.
For each deployment, the Sensory Trailer travels with essential supplies to support families in need, including:
- A generator, propane tanks, and gas tanks
- Water and over 200 sensory bags, which were distributed to families during Hurricane Helene
- Additional supplies tailored to support families in crisis
While children and youth receive support inside the sensory trailer, parents are offered a moment of respite and the opportunity to connect with crucial recovery resources.
Quotes and Media
“We’re grateful to bring this mobile resource to families impacted by Hurricane Milton,” said David Brown, LCSW, President of Family Initiative. “The Sensory Trailer provides a much-needed safe space for children diagnosed with ASD, while also connecting parents to essential recovery resources during this challenging time.”
For more information and the latest updates on the Sensory Trailer’s location, please visit our social media channels:
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/@FamilyInitiative
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/familyinitiative/
About Family Initiative
Established in 2015, Family Initiative is a nonprofit organization based in Cape Coral, Florida, dedicated to supporting children, adolescents, and young adults diagnosed on the Autism Spectrum through innovative programs and evidence-based therapies. Family Initiative provides clinical services, educational programs, and community support, empowering individuals and families across Southwest Florida. Through its private specialty school, Thrive Academy, Family Initiative offers a unique, individualized educational experience focused on academic achievement and vocational training. In addition to autism services, Family Initiative provides training and support for child welfare caregivers. To learn more, visit FI-Florida.org or call 239-910-0712.
