New Data Shows Increase Of Children With Autism

From The Desk Of Congressman Chris Smith

WASHINGTON, D.C. - In response to new data showing an increase in the prevalence of autism in children throughout the United States, Reps. Chris Smith (R-4th) and Henry Cuellar (D-TX), Co-Chairs of the Congressional Autism Caucus, issued a joint call for increased awareness and expanded access to care, education and support services for families touched by autism.

The new data - released by the Centers for Disease and Control (CDC) - revealed that 1 in 36 children have autism spectrum disorder, marking a significant increase from previous estimates of 1 in 44 children across the country.

“Autism is on the rise across the United States - and my home state of New Jersey has the third highest rate of autism in the nation,” said Smith, who has authored four major laws to combat

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“learnscape” creating a sustainable source of fresh fruit while promoting community engagement and educational opportunities.

“The food forest project is an excellent example of how businesses, township organizations, and school communities come together to create sustainable solutions to local challenges,” Howell Middle School

South Science Teacher Josh Langenberger said. “Not only will this initiative promote healthy living, but it will also serve as an educational resource for our students to learn about sustainable agriculture, biodiversity, and the environment.”

The project was initiated by the Howell Township Green Team and Shade Tree Commission in partnership with Howell Township Middle School South PTO and staff. It is funded through a grant from FirstEnergy Corp.

The Food Forest is set to be planted on a 5,300-square-foot plot within a larger area dedicated to promoting student global stewardship.

The donated fruit trees that will be featured includes apple, peach, pear, plum and nectarine. The project will be maintained through sustainable and organic practices, and treat autism, including the Autism CARES Act of 2019, which provides $1.8 billion to fund research, early detection and treatment for children and adults with autism through 2024.

“While much progress has been made to support the autism community, we must do better to ensure those affected by autism have access to the education and services they need to live healthy, independent lives - especially and including as they ‘age-out’ of school-based programs and become adults,” Smith said.

“As Co-Chair of the Congressional Autism Caucus, and as a member of the House Appropriations Committee, I have been committed to increasing funding for autism research and programs that serve people with autism and their caregivers,” said Cuellar.

“The new autism prevalence numbers released by the CDC indicate there is still much work to be done.” including natural pest control and water conservation techniques.

“I look forward to continuing to work with my caucus Co-Chair, Rep. Chris Smith, and my colleagues in the House to deliver crucial investments in autism research,” Cuellar added.

Additionally, the project offers volunteer opportunities and educational programs on topics such as composting, soil health, and plant propagation.

Lisa Doud, Chair of the Howell Township Green Team and Shade Tree Commission, said all Howell Middle School students will receive an oak sapling to plant at home as an extension of stewardship. This emphasizes the importance of trees and their role in the ecosystem as well as helps students develop an appreciation for the natural world while understanding how human activities impact the environment.

“We are excited to see this collaborative effort come to fruition,” Doud said. “The Food Forest will not only provide a source of fresh fruit for our community but also serve as an educational resource for generations with the additional benefit of educating the students on the value of trees within our community.”

The planting of the Food Forest is scheduled for May 5 at 9 a.m. For more information on how you can support the student global stewardship program and outdoor classroom, contact Josh Langenberger at jlangenberger@howell.k12.nj.us or the Howell Shade Tree Commission at friendsofhowellstc@gmail.com.

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