Friday, April 27, 2007
Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290
Blunt Celebrates New Autism Treatment Center, Marks Autism Awareness Day
COLUMBIA– In recognition of Autism Awareness Day, Gov. Matt Blunt helped cut the ribbon for the Thompson Center for Autism. The governor has been a leader in advocating for early diagnosis and treatment of autism with a budget that more than doubles funding for autism programs.
"Giving attention to autism and focusing on early diagnosis, treatment and intervention is crucial to improving the lives of Missouri's children living with Autism," Blunt said. "Autism Spectrum Disorders have a profound impact on the lives of affected Missouri families, and that is why my administration is making critical investments to help raise awareness about autism and treatment options to better the lives of children."
Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are the second most common developmental disability in the United States and affect 1 in every 166 people. Early diagnosis is critical to improving the development of children with ASD.
The governor's budget includes a $3.9 million increase to help with early diagnosis and treatment of ASD. The state currently serves more than 4,200 young Missourians with an ASD diagnosis across their lifespan. The governor's recommended funding increase will help expand ASD services for children. It will provide:
- $500,000 to create an intensive day treatment program at the Ozark Center in Joplin, the first of its kind in Missouri.
- $2.4 million to reduce the waitlist for autism diagnosis and treatment by expanding staff and training.
- $1 million for Missouri's five autism projects.
An additional $2.6 million will be made available to construct a new state of the art facility at Southeast Missouri State University to diagnose and treat Missourians who suffer from autism spectrum disorders if the General Assembly approves the governor's Lewis and Clark Discovery Initiative.
The Thompson Center for Autism was established in April 2005 to promote research, teaching and service innovations to help improve the lives of children with autism and other neurological conditions.