Zagreb picnic raises funds for children with autism
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In Zagreb, Croatia, the Spektar prijateljstva Association hosted a fundraising picnic to support children with autism and other developmental difficulties.
Antonije Saratlije, a parent and the association’s vice president, explained her child, who has autism, started first grade but is still waiting for a classroom assistant. Saratlije noted six children in her child’s class need assistance, but only one aide is currently available.
The association reports a shortage of assistants is a widespread problem, and the government should better compensate these essential workers. Saratlije shared she spent four years taking her child to the Autism Center, where parents consistently had to find assistants independently. She hoped to avoid this situation but now finds herself needing to secure support for her child, who is nonverbal and unable to communicate their school experience.
Spektar prijateljstva also advocates for an inclusive playground where children with autism can socialize and celebrate birthdays. They designed the space with sensory sensitivities in mind, including noise-canceling headphones and calming equipment. During the picnic, the association received donations from attendees who understood the need for more resources for these children and their families.
