PLEASE HELP SAVE MY AUTISTIC SON

My son has Autism and severe ADHD. He has not been in an appropriate school since age 4 when he graduated from the (preschool) Academy for Special Children. From kindergarten, Dovid has educationally qualified for and been in desperate need of a singular Program. However, due to the Program’s exorbitant tuition, I never tried to place him there. Even finding a program that meets his mental, emotional, spiritual, academic, and social needs is a miracle. My not sending him there has stunted his functional ability.

The current tuition for the high school program is $114,000/year. While not true in other school districts, East Ramapo does not pay anything toward education for its students in this private program. I received the maximum scholarship of 50%, which leaves me to pay $57,000. Dovid will not be allowed to remain if I cannot pay the remaining balance by December 31, 2022. A child with disabilities deserves to have his needs met as much as a “typical” child, doesn’t he?

My older son suddenly passed away earlier this year, at the age of 16. I was always keenly aware that each child is a precious gift, and I became even more so when I was diagnosed with infertility. Conceiving was initially difficult; remaining pregnant was as well. Now I experience viscerally that no one knows how long we have our children. It’s my sacred obligation and privilege to meet Dovid's needs. I must do that now. He’s with me now. I need your help to keep my surviving son where he needs to be. Rational or not, I refuse to fail Dovid any longer.

My life has been filled with blessings; however, not in the area of material success. To whatever degree you’ve been financially blessed, please help me start meeting Dovid’s needs now.

I’d much prefer to be giving money than asking for it. Our coarse world says it’s a weakness to ask for charity. However, some take giving charity and elevate it to the pursuit of justice. May your generosity bring you and your loved ones every spiritual and material blessing, and may your lives be enriched.

Very truly yours,

Jennifer Benson