Metro Event Highlights Autism Awareness With Cookie Giveaway

LOS ANGELES, CA — Metro will host a cookie giveaway Tuesday at the Wilshire/Vermont station, where young adults with autism will greet riders and hand out treats in recognition of Autism Awareness Month.

The participants, known as "Cookiepreneurs," will be at the station from 2 to 5 p.m., offering individually packaged cookies along with brief messages highlighting autism awareness, according to Metro.

The bakers are part of the Wiley Center for Speech and Language Development job training program, which provides experience in a professional kitchen and promotes pathways to meaningful employment.

Officials said the event is intended to celebrate neurodiversity while showcasing the skills and contributions of individuals with autism.

"Cookiepreneurs bake cookies for personal orders as well as cater events. For these bakers, meaningful employment is making delicious cookies," according to a statement from Metro.

A second cookie giveaway is scheduled from 2 to 5 p.m. Thursday at the 7th Street/Metro Center station, where additional "Cookiepreneurs" will meet riders and distribute cookies.

The Wiley Center provides services to children and adults with autism spectrum disorder and other special needs, with a focus on education, life skills and employment opportunities.

City News Service