During COVID-19, children and youth with autism need our help more than ever. That’s why our nonprofit is hosting our ninth-annual Benefit for Learning Auction this November. Funds raised will help students with autism in New Hampshire, Maine, and Massachusetts to make it through the Coronavirus crisis. The event features online bidding from November 8-15.

Event proceeds will allow our nonprofit to invest in instructional technology, cleaning supplies, PPE, and expert staffing—so that we can give local students with autism essential services when and where they need them. You’ll help us serve students at home, at Birchtree, in public schools, and through remote instruction. With your support, we’ll help students and families in New Hampshire, Maine, and Massachusetts to make it through the COVID-19 crisis.

One out of three of Birchtree’s day-school students qualifies for free or reduced school lunch, and all Birchtree families face extraordinary financial burdens. The student’s school district typically pays Birchtree’s tuition or service fee, so that most families pay $0 for Birchtree’s services.

Unfortunately, the tuition and service fees paid by students' school districts cannot cover the full cost of Birchtree's intensive, individualized educational programs. The tuition rate for Birchtree's day school is set by the state of New Hampshire. Last year, per-pupil expenses for Birchtree's day-school program exceeded its tuition income by $6,553 per student. That's why our nonprofit organization depends on support from individuals, organizations, and businesses like yours.