During this 2012 holiday season, both campuses of Developmental Disabilities Institute’s Young Autism Program were able to extend a helping hand to families that were in need this year.

Numerous families were identified for the YAP Gives Back Giving Tree endeavor and asked to write down the things that their children needed, and – of course – wanted, for the holidays. An “ornament” was created for each child’s wish and staff members were able to purchase and wrap the items for the children.

In order to ensure that the families were also able to enjoy a festive holiday meal, a list of grocery items was created, along with gift card requests, and those goods were made a special part of the delivery.

Thanks to a tremendous outpouring from staff members of both the Medford and Ronkonkoma campuses, generous donations of food, gift cards, toys, and clothing were collected and given to multiple families with many loving wishes for a joyous holiday and a happy new year!