Support TAP-FLOS: Empower Autism & I/DD Families

THE HEART OF TAP-FLOS: SUPPORT FOR AUTISTIC YOUTH & THEIR FAMILIES

Every summer. thousands of our most vulnerable students in Yonkers fall through the cracks—children with IEPs. autism. and developmental disabilities who attend 12-month school programs while most of the district is on break.

These students deserve the same dignity. joy. and preparedness as every other child.That’s why The Autism Project – FLOS Inc. launched the Sensory Backpack Initiative.

WHAT WE PUT IN EVERY BACKPACK

Each backpack is intentionally designed for sensory regulation. emotional support. and school readiness. Items include:

• Noise-canceling headphones• Sensory brushes (for calming input)• Fidget tools (spinners. stretch toys. stress balls)• Visual timers• Wiggle cushions• Therapeutic putty• Back-to-school basics (notebooks. crayons. pencils. glue sticks. folders)• Character and plain-style backpacks to preserve dignity and choice• Printed parent resources for support at home

These items make an immediate difference for autistic students who struggle with overstimulation. anxiety. noisy environments. and transitions.

WHY WE DO THIS

Yonkers has 4.618+ students with disabilities enrolled in 2024–2025—a jump from 17% to 20% of total district enrollment.Autism remains the #1 developmental disability. impacting 1 in 31 children nationally.

Many of our families are low-income Black and Hispanic households who face:

• Long waitlists• Limited culturally competent programs• Isolation• Lack of advocacy support• Financial hardship

Our backpacks remove barriers. restore dignity. and make sure every child walks into school supported. regulated. and ready.

OUR 2025 IMPACT

In 2025. TAP-FLOS delivered over 400 backpacks to IEP students in Yonkers. Our goal for Summer 2026: 500 students served.

We are lean. efficient. and community-powered—every dollar directly supports a child who needs it.

ABOUT TAP-FLOS

Since 2012. The Autism Project – FLOS Inc. has served Westchester families with education. advocacy. and accessible community programs. Our work includes:

• Annual Autism Resource & Provider Fair – connects families to evaluations. therapists. services. advocates. and programs• The 21 Club for Adults with Autism & IDD – life skills. social skills. outings. and community integration• Mother’s Day Honors – celebrating mothers who carry lifelong caregiving roles• Parent Advocacy Workshops – CSE & IEP guidance. puberty/IDD support. family navigation• Inclusive Community Events – Truck-or-Treat. Santa Meet & Greet. fitness. cooking. music therapy

We fill the gaps the system leaves behind. and every program is built from lived experience. compassion. and community roots.