City of Santa Maria
Santa Maria, California
Proclamation
WHEREAS, Autism is a comple x neurobiological disor der that typically last s throughout a person’s lifetime and is part of a group known as Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs); and
WHEREAS, Autism affects all persons regardless of race, religion, socio -economic, status or geography; and
WHEREAS, disparities in access to health care, education, and services have placed an undue burden on individuals with disabilities and their loved ones; and
WHEREAS, one in 44 children in the U.S. is diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder; and
WHEREAS, individuals with ASDs and their families face tremendous and overwhelming challenges in accessing and navigating the complex programs and services for these disorders; and
WHEREAS, early intervention can improve learning, communication, and s ocial skills, as well as underlying brain development.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, ALICE M. PATINO, Mayor of the City of Santa Maria do hereby recognize April 2024, as:
“NATIONAL AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH”
in the City of Santa Maria , and encourage businesses and residents to recognize the talents, abilities, and contributions of indivi duals diagno sed with Autism Spectrum Disorder.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have h ereunto set my hand and have caused the Seal of the City of Santa Maria to be affixed hereto this 16th day of April 2024.
___________________________________________
Alice M. Patino, Mayor