Local businesswoman donates to Autism awareness program

By BARBARA?WALKIN

FN?Night Editor

barbara@nasguard.com

Autism is becoming an increasing sensitive subject throughout The Bahamas and care-takers and those working in the field are hoping to sensitize Bahamians, particularly in Grand Bahama about Autism as the month, April, in which it is observed quickly approaches.

One local businesswoman, Alice Williams of Mind, Body and Soul Fitness Gym, is lending a hand in support of educating the community on autism and its far reaching effects. Recently, Williams donated a check to Dr. Barbara and Bishop Joseph Hall, of Family United Ministries International, who not only work with autistic children but also with their families.

"Well the Lord put it in my spirit and with autism being very popular in The Bahamas, and persons not being sensitized I felt the need to assist with the community being educated about autism," said Williams.

She explained that during the month of February the fitness gym participates in an annual walk and this year, during the month of love, she promoted autism and funds from the walk were to be donated to the Halls and their educational program on autism.

"Together with Bishop and Dr. Hall, I feel that we as a people should be more knowledgeable on autism and as February was the month of love, what better way to prove it than to give and to have people educated about something that is important."

Williams commended the Halls for the work they are doing and encouraged them to continue bringing awareness to and assisting children with autism and the families that support their kids with autism.

Dr. Hall in thanking Williams said that she and her husband were grateful for the support and encouraged others in the business community to lend their support to their program and Reach Bahamas, an organization that caters to children in the country with autism.

"This is all about love coming from Mrs. Williams and her financial assistance to bring more awareness to autism and to autistic children who are not only the schools, but in the community," said Hall, noting that Williams' facility is a part of the program that is recommended for children with autism.

"They need physical exercise, they also need an environment that would have them with sensory stimulation and also they need to be trained and have a proper diet. And, that is what Mind, Body and Soul Fitness is all about ... so we are pleased that she saw the need to join in this effort of bringing greater awareness to autism."

Hall noted that as Autism Month approaches it is hoped that more persons in the community, especially parents of autistic children will participate in activities promoting autism.

© 2012 The Freeport News