The J. Arthur Trudeau Memorial Center has received a $4,000 grant from the John E. Fogarty Foundation to purchase technology to help with distance learning at Pathways Strategic Teaching Center, Trudeau's comprehensive education and treatment program servicing children with autism and related disorders.

Founded in 1998, Pathways is committed to utilizing scientifically validated teaching strategies to improve the lives of children with autism and their families. In response to COVID-19, Pathways' educators have made the transition to online learning, which can be a challenge for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The John E. Fogarty Foundation grant will help Pathways purchase technology that breaks down the communication barrier for children on the spectrum.

"Thanks to the Fogarty Foundation, this grant will allow our students to have access to educational supports and services through distance learning," said Pathways' Clinical Director Mackenzie Milner. "It will also afford our students the social supports and constructs through virtual group sessions with peers. Furthermore, it will provide families with similar needs facing similar struggles the ability to connect with each other and access resources essential to a successful distance learning experience."

The John E. Fogarty Foundation for Persons with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities' mission is to support agencies that provide services to improve and enhance the quality of life for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) within Rhode Island.