LEESBURG, Fla. — April is recognized as National Autism Awareness Month. An organization based in Leesburg is bringing awareness to the need to help homeless people who are diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.
Hope to Restoration is a resource center for homeless people with autism. Founder Felicia Stewart says that since 2023, they have served over 8,000 people, and 25% of them were on the spectrum. Stewart says the organization is currently changing to fit the growing needs.
“There are little to no resources around here for those who are on the spectrum and need help as a homeless individual,” she said.
Stewart said the office located in Leesburg has outgrown the increasing number of clients, which is why they are moving to a bigger space.
“We try to advocate for those in the community, not just put a band-aid on it,” she said.
It’s a cause that hits close to home for Stewart, and her dad inspired it all.
“My dad was on the spectrum and was dealing with autism. He traveled all over the world and for 18, 19 years of his life as a homeless individual,” Stewart said.
She says the new center will have space for a variety of rooms where case workers and mental health counselors can work with clients, and to educate those with autism on how to become self-sufficient for life stability.
The organization also provides resources to homeless individuals who are victims of domestic abuse or who are formerly incarcerated.