The Help Group is pleased to launch its annual Autism Awareness Campaign this month in partnership with longtime supporters The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® and Gelson’s.

“Autism is estimated to affect 1 in every 68 children in the United States,” said Dr. Barbara Firestone, Help Group President & CEO. “It’s critical to disseminate the very latest information about autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and the early signs of ASD to the community. Research has shown that early identification and intensive early intervention can lead to significant positive outcomes for many children with autism.”

In recognition of National Autism Awareness Month, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® will make The Help Group’s “Learn the Facts & Early Signs” brochures available in its 193 stores in the western United States. Information about autism will also be available on in-store television displays and The Coffee Bean’s social media outlets.

John Fuller, President & CEO of The Coffee Bean, explains the company’s commitment to the annual outreach effort, “The number of families impacted by autism has grown tremendously in recent years. The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf will continue to work with our friends at The Help Group to do all we can to promote greater awareness and understanding of autism.”

Gelson’s will host its annual autism awareness and fund-raising campaign in support of the children of The Help Group at all 18 Southern California locations. Copies of the “Learn the Facts” brochures will be available in stores, and customers will also have the opportunity to make donations to The Help Group.

Rob McDougall, President & CEO of Gelson’s talks about Gelson’s longstanding commitment to giving back to the communities it serves. “It is likely that many of our customers and staff know or love a child with autism. We’re here to help and glad to lend a hand.”

“Our heartfelt thanks to The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf® and to Gelson’s for joining us once again in our annual autism awareness campaign,” said Dr. Barbara Firestone.  “It’s through outstanding corporate partners like the Coffee Bean and Gelson’s that we are able to reach many families with this important information about autism.”

The “Learn the Facts and Early Signs” brochures are available online in English and Spanish, and additional copies can be requested by calling 877.943.5747.