Children’s Health & Research Foundation Awarded $64,000 Grant to Expand Autism Care Access in Westchester

"White Plains, NY — November 2025 — The Children’s Health & Research Foundation, Inc. (CHRF) is proud to announce it has been awarded a $64,000 grant from The New York Community Trust – Westchester to support a critical initiative aimed at reducing wait times for children seeking autism treatment services.

This one-year grant will enable CHRF to expand its capacity to serve children and families by funding key program enhancements. As part of the initiative, CHRF will hire a half-time Nurse Practitioner, enabling the organization to evaluate approximately 25 additional children per month and significantly improving access to timely care for families in need.

In addition to increasing evaluation capacity, the program will include:

• Structured training and supervision for new clinical staff during the first three months

• Ongoing monitoring and evaluation to ensure program effectiveness and scalability

• Strategic planning to sustain and expand services beyond the grant period

“This grant represents a meaningful investment in the health and future of children in our community,”

said Laura Achkar, Executive Director of CHRF. “Reducing wait times for autism diagnosis and treatment is critical. Early intervention can make a life-changing difference, and this funding allows us to reach more families when it matters most.”

The funding, supported in part by the Junior League of Westchester-on-Hudson Fund and the Westchester Health Fund, reflects a shared commitment to addressing healthcare access challenges and improving outcomes for children with developmental needs.

CHRF will implement the program immediately and will report on its progress, outcomes, and long-term sustainability efforts at the conclusion of the grant period in November 2026.

“Together, we can ensure that every child receives the timely care and support they deserve.”

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