Our Mission
Our Mission
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For families raising an autistic child, the simple joy of playing in the backyard can be a source of constant anxiety. Nearly half of all children with autism attempt to elope or wander from safe environments, a rate nearly four times higher than their neurotypical peers. The most effective way to prevent this dangerous wandering is a secure, physical perimeter.
However, the cost of a standard privacy fence can run thousands of dollars, placing this critical safety measure financially out of reach for many families already burdened by medical and therapy costs.
How We Help
By fully funding and installing secure fencing for qualified local families in Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, and Lawrence counties, the Autism Fence Project removes the financial barrier to safety. We are doing more than building fences; we are giving children a safe space to play and giving parents their peace of mind back
For families in Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, and Lawrence Counties in Southwest PA.
See our guidelines and apply here.
The Heart Behind the Project
Krystal Rattigan, Founder & Program Director
As a mother raising two teenagers with profound autism, I know firsthand the terrifying reality of wandering and elopement. Parents like me often live in a constant state of hypervigilance, knowing that a single unlocked door or a split second of distraction can lead to an unthinkable emergency.
I know that a secure, physical boundary—like a high-quality privacy fence—is one of the only ways to truly give our kids a safe place to be themselves and give parents a moment to breathe. But when I saw that standard installations easily cost upwards of $5,000, I realized how many local families were being priced out of their own children's safety due to the staggering costs of therapies, specialized care, and the unique financial pressures our community faces.
I started the Autism Fence Project because peace of mind shouldn't be a luxury. My mission is to completely remove this financial barrier for families across Allegheny, Beaver, Butler, and Lawrence counties, keeping our most vulnerable kids safe in their own backyards, one fence at a time.
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