Holiday shopping can be overwhelming for many, but for individuals on the autism spectrum, the bright lights, loud music, and crowded stores can be major barriers to preparing for the holidays.
For the sixth year in a row, Bittersweet Farms and two local Target stores are collaborating to offer a sensory-friendly holiday shopping experience for the local autism community.
On Nov 9, the Target store in Rossford (9666 Old U.S. 20) and the Target store in Holland (1465 E. Mall Dr.) will open one hour early to provide a sensory-friendly shopping experience for individuals with autism. From 7-8 a.m., the lights will be dimmed, the music turned off, and foot traffic limited.
Bittersweet Executive Director Dustin Watkins said, “For the sixth year in a row, we are thrilled to partner with Target to offer this sensory-friendly holiday shopping experience. Bittersweet’s mission is to positively impact the lives of individuals with autism and those whose lives they touch. Offering opportunities such as this to the wider autism community is one of many ways we fulfill our mission.”
“This event means so much to the participants at Bittersweet,” said Julie Champa, Bittersweet development director. “There is nothing like the joy on their faces as they are able to shop for their loved ones in a stress-free environment.”
Local individuals with autism and their families are invited to attend this event.
