NATICK - The Autism Welcoming Center at the Natick Mall is now open.

Autism Alliance, a Framingham-based nonprofit program that’s a part of the human services provider Advocates, held a grand opening for the 2,700 square foot space in mid-September. Now, the center will provide refuge and activities for those with autism.

Executive Director for Autism Alliance Allison Daigle said the group’s work aims to provide support and empowerment to those on the spectrum along with their families and caretakers.

“Every day, we have families coming in here; we have people that are walking the mall who have loved ones that have autism,” Daigle explained in an interview with The Frame at the center.

“They come in, and some of them share their stories with us. Some of them, we’re able to give them more resources. And that’s what we want to do.”

Daigle, the mother of a son with autism, has worked with Autism Alliance for nearly two decades. Since then, she’s partnered with other community members to increase awareness for the needs of people on the spectrum.

“My passions have been trying to enrich the community that we live in and to empower families who have similar experiences to mine, and to support the families that are in need of resources and support that we offer at the Autism Alliance,” Daigle continued.

The new Welcoming Center is the latest addition to those efforts. The site on the Natick Mall’s second floor features sensory-friendly resources and space for those on the spectrum.

The space will also be utilized to continue training programs for businesses and organizations within the area. Daigle explained that since 2019, about 60 businesses across a variety of industries in the MetroWest area have been certified by Autism Alliance. Those certified sites have staff members who have been trained in order to be accommodating for those with autism.

For more details on the Autism Welcoming Center, click here.