#TurksandCaicos, June 17, 2022 – Over 20 students are receiving necessary attention and care at Ashley’s Learning Center. Whether diagnosed with autism or other related challenges, the center helps to provide medical care, education opportunities, as well as other development resources.

CIBC FirstCaribbean recently supported Ashley’s Learning Center through a donation to the Hope Foundation for Autism Awareness. The non-profit organization provides support for parents, community awareness and hope to all those affected by autism by supporting all causes related to children with special needs, especially those on the autism spectrum.

Director and Chairman of The Hope Foundation, Maxcia L. Rigby, accepted the bank’s donation with gratitude and expressed how much it means to the organization’s work.

“The donation that CIBC FirstCaribbean has given to The Hope Foundation means a lot to the students at Ashley’s Learning Center. These funds are going to assist with providing scholarships to families who have difficulty sending their children to the school,” she said.

Statistics currently show that 1 in 44 children- mainly boys- are diagnosed with autism. Mrs. Rigby underscored that parents need support and training while children need assistance and intervention. She noted that Ashley’s Learning Center has a day and evening program to meet the needs of students and emphasized that children solely staying home should not be an option because this often leads to digression in development.

Mrs. Rigby continued, “We were established to bridge the gap between awareness and support for parents and bringing awareness to the community with regards to the foundation and autism, as well as children receiving a diagnosis and intervention.

CIBC FirstCaribbean’s Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) Country Head, Terrance Gibson, praised The Hope Foundation for nearing its tenth year of operation with unwavering passion and perseverance.

“Since 2013, The Hope Foundation has made significant strides for numerous children, their families, communities and TCI at large. Its initiatives cover physical, mental, emotional and social needs, and also spreads awareness.

“As you plan more workshops, fundraising activities, community events and much more, CIBC FirstCaribbean is more than happy to support you,” Mr. Gibson said.

Photo Caption

Pictured from left to right are CIBC FirstCaribbean’s Turks and Caicos Islands Country Head, Terrance Gibson and The Hope Foundation’s Director and Chairman, Maxcia Rigby.