Funds raised through GiveNOLA Day this year will support St. Tammany Health System's efforts for its Certified Autism Centers initiative. This program trains healthcare staff in the best practices in effective treatment of neurodivergent patients in the community, offering patients and their family members with tools and resources for what to expect during a healthcare visit.

Your gifts will allow us to purchase sensory backpacks with vital tools for individuals with autism. These backpacks are filled with tools that help ease anxiety and increase communication for individuals experiencing prevention of a sensory avoidance or meltdown caused by overstimulation due to a high stress situation. They are custom-curated and include items like earmuffs, fidget spinners and poppers, Wacky Tracks, and communication boards/books, and other additional tools.

Your gift of just $100 will provide a bag for these patients, giving them critical coping tools during health treatment as well as everyday life.