Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton Announces $500,000 To Support Eden II Programs
Editor’s note: Another Staten Island charity serving Kids with autism is the RISE Academy. The borough president visited there last week on a field day celebration of community. Readers may remember our film about an autistic girl learning to be on her own, ‘Horsegirls.’
STATEN ISLAND, NY – On August 17, 2026, Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton held a press conference to announce $500,000 in funding for Eden II, a program dedicated to serving individuals with autism. Through a variety of services that support both children and adults, Eden II serves over 700 individuals and families across New York City and Long Island. Their primary mission is to support people with autism throughout their lives to achieve their full potential through service, science, and passion, envisioning a society where every person with autism will have the opportunity to reach their greatest level of independence and become valued and active in their community.
The funding will primarily be used to upgrade facilities and programming for Eden II’s aging populations. Currently, approximately 25% of the adults that the program serves are over 45 years old, which means their needs are ever changing. This grant will allow Eden II to address the complex and unique challenges that their growing population faces.
“For 50 years, Eden II has been doing critically important work for people with autism here on Staten Island. This organization has been a trusted resource for families and individuals, and its impact on our community cannot be overstated,” said Senator Scarcella-Spanton. “I am proud to have secured funding to ensure that Eden II can continue to serve as a reliable resource to our borough.”
“We are incredibly grateful to Senator Scarcella-Spanton for securing $500,000 in capital funding for the Eden II Programs,” said Joanne Gerenser, Executive Director of Eden II Programs. “These funds will help us to expand our footprint and develop our much needed senior center. We deeply appreciate Senator Scarcella-Spanton’s commitment to our community and her continued advocacy for people with autism and developmental disabilities.”
Senator Scarcella-Spanton was appointed as Chair of the New York State Senate Committee on Veterans, Homeland Security, and Military Affairs and continues to advocate for legislation that benefits veterans and their families. She is also a member of the Committees on Civil Service and Pensions, Cultural Affairs, Tourism, Parks and Recreation, Disabilities, Insurance, Labor, and Women’s Issues.
Senator Scarcella-Spanton hosts press conference with Eden II Leadership.
Banner Image: Senator Scarcella-Spanton hosts press conference with Eden II Leadership. Image Credit – Sen. Scarcella-Spanton
