Nine Wegmans Stores Support Autism New Jersey Mission

New Jersey residents know Wegmans as the place where they can get high-quality fresh produce, bread, flowers and more in a family-owned atmosphere.

But the chain of grocery stores should also be known for their community engagement and philanthropic contributions. Nine Wegmans stores in New Jersey generously contributed to Autism New Jersey’s Ambassador Campaign, which runs through the month of April, known as Autism Awareness month.

The gift of $5,000 will make a lasting impact on the families of New Jersey, and the continuation of the non-profit’s key programs, including:

• Autism New Jersey’s 800.4.AUTISM Helpline, where individuals or caregivers can call to get expert advice on topics ranging from diagnosis, treatment, education, navigating government programs, transitioning to adulthood and more. The helpline averages around 2,000 contacts per year through their phone, email and online forms.
• Autism New Jersey’s public policy efforts. The public policy team recently successfully advocated for state regulations and licensure for those who practice Applied Behavior Analysis, an evidence-based treatment for autism. The licensure requirement gives families peace of mind that ABA professionals who work with their loved ones are properly trained and meet industry standards.
• Autism New Jersey’s best-practice programs, including its law enforcement and healthcare initiatives, which teach professionals how to adopt autism-friendly practices, making common community interactions like a traffic stop or dental checkup less stressful for individuals with autism.

“Autism New Jersey relies on wonderful donors like the Wegmans team to support our year-round efforts,” Autism New Jersey Executive Director Suzanne Buchanan said. “From the bottom of our heart, we want to say, ‘thank you’ to both Wegmans and Development Committee Board Chair Jackie Kelly, who foraged this wonderful community connection.”

Wegmans’ generous donation was the latest corporate contribution to the Autism Ambassador campaign. Organizations and individuals interested in supporting the Autism New Jersey mission can donate online or contact the development team for more information.