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Devereux California awarded $6,000 grant for multi-sensory equipment for adults with autism

Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health California was recently awarded a $6,000 grant to purchase multi-sensory equipment for adults diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). 

The grant, from the June G. Outhwaite Charitable Trust, a private foundation that supports charitable organizations in Santa Barbara County, Calif., will be used to purchase multi-sensory equipment for residents of the Somerset House, a small group home in Goleta.

Multi-sensory equipment is designed to promote feelings of well-being, and can either calm or stimulate the senses of individuals with autism or special needs through the use of special lighting, music/sound machines, textures and aromas.

“We are extremely grateful to the Outhwaite Foundation for presenting our organization with this generous grant,” said Devereux California Executive Director Amy Evans. “The adults we serve at the Somerset House – many of whom face social interaction, communication and/or sensory processing challenges – will benefit greatly from this type of equipment. The funds will enable us to create a therapeutic environment where our individuals can safely explore and control the stimulation around them, which will help them relax when they are feeling overwhelmed, stressed or anxious.”

Benefits of utilizing multi-sensory equipment

Evans said the benefits of providing a stimulating environment for individuals with autism or special needs include:

• Heightened awareness
• Increased concentration and cognitive functioning
• Improved coordination and motor skills
• Relaxation and stress reduction
• Increased vocalization and language development
• Improved communication and social interaction skills
• Increased independence

“Multi-sensory equipment can open up a new world for our adults,” Evans explained. “The benefits are endless! The combination of sights, sounds and scents can help soothe and calm those in our care, while keeping their minds active.”

Learn about Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health.

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