January 2019
Public Comment Needed: Medicaid Coverage for Autism Treatment
The state is preparing to have Medicaid coverage available for autism treatment for youth within the next few months and is requesting public input to inform how they design the coverage.
ACTION ALERT

If you are parent of a child with autism enrolled in or eligible for NJ FamilyCare, or if you know or work with such families, this is an urgent message.

There is an opportunity to submit written comments before the February 1st deadline. Autism New Jersey has created a sample letter for parents and professionals to make it easier to submit comments. Learn more>>
Understanding the EPSDT Medicaid Benefit
Early and Periodic Screening Diagnosis and Treatment (EPSDT) is a Medicaid benefit for children and was introduced to ensure that children under age 21 have access to comprehensive high-quality health benefits.  

Learn how the EPSDT benefit applies to identifying and treating autism in children. Read more>>
Upcoming Autism New Jersey Events
Transition Conference
February 25, 2019 Woodbridge, NJ
A conference tailored to the needs of individuals aged 14 to 25. It has been a sold-out event every year, and we expect another 450 caregivers and professionals again this year. Register Today>>
Autism Ambassador Program
April 2019
The Ambassador Program has a significant impact on increasing the understanding and acceptance of autism in NJ during Autism Awareness Month. Gain access to free awareness supplies when you register>>
Ride for Autism
June 8, 2019
Lincroft, NJ
A one-day charity bicycle tour, opened to all levels of cyclists. Participants choose from five routes ranging in length from 10 to 100 miles in scenic Central NJ. Early registration discounts are available>>
Call for Papers Open for Annual Conference
We are currently seeking presenters for the 37th Annual Conference to be held on October 17 & 18, 2019 in Atlantic City. More details>>

Deadline for submission is January 31, 2019.
Supporter of the Month
Union Beach Polar Bear Plunge
Supporters happily braved the brutal cold on January 12, 2019, at the first annual Union Beach Polar Bear Plunge. Plungers of all ages rushed into 40 degree ocean water to get “Freezin’ for a Reason,” raising more than $10,000 for Autism New Jersey.
“It was pretty cold,” one Union Beach resident stated. “It was a lot of fun, a good cause, and I’m happy to do it, and very proud of what we did.”
Upcoming Events & Free Workshops
January 27, 2019
East Brunswick, NJ
February 25, 2019
Woodbridge, NJ
March 20, 2019
North Brunswick, NJ
Referral Database
Autism New Jersey maintains a free referral database of autism service professionals in many different categories. Please consider recommending a professional>>

New changes! We've made some changes to our referral system to make it even easier to find the resources you need!
We remain dedicated to serving the needs of New Jersey's autism community. Our services and outreach activities are only possible with the support of our members and generous donors. 
As always, if you require support or information, please contact us at 800.4.AUTISM, 609.588.8200 or visit www.autismnj.org.

Wishing you a happy and healthy New Year!

Your Friends at Autism New Jersey