2025 Autism Awareness month is Here!!

This is our 3rd Annual Autism Awareness month here at the Livingston Police Department and we could not be more excited! Our goal during April is to raise as much awareness as possible for Autism and learn all we can about it. While were doing that we will be raising funds for our beneficiary LAUNCH.

Launch was founded in 2015 to address the critical shortage of pediatric therapeutic services in Livingston Parish and surrounding areas. Beginning with just three therapists working out of church classrooms, Launch provided 849 therapy visits in its first year. Due to increasing demand, the organization expanded by opening standalone locations in 2017 and 2018 and, in 2022, purchased its first dedicated facility.

Today, Launch serves 1,186 children which equates to approximately 24,000 therapy visits annually, offering speech, occupational, and physical therapy to children with developmental delays and disabilities. The need for services continues to grow, with approximately 300 children currently on the waiting list. The recent Medicaid expansion increased the number of Medicaid-supported children at Launch to 72%, highlighting the financial challenges families face in accessing critical care.

In addition to therapy, Launch provides essential family support services, including feeding programs, caregiver education, and social services referrals, to improve children’s health and well-being. Despite these efforts, the financial burden on families remains significant. In 2024 alone, Launch provided $578,575 in unreimbursed therapy services to ensure that all children, regardless of financial status, receive the care they need.

Launch is committed to addressing the social determinants of health that impact a child’s progress, with research indicating that 70% of developmental outcomes are influenced by factors beyond direct therapy. In response, Launch has dedicated significant resources to addressing transportation barriers, basic needs, and parent training. Additionally, Launch partners with LSU social work students to assist families with care coordination, accessing resources, and providing counseling services. This comprehensive approach empowers families with the support they need to facilitate exponential progress for their children.