Manalapan 'Real Housewives' Husband Gives to Autism Charity

MANALAPAN, NJ - In honor of April being national autism awareness month, Manalapan-based The Little Kernel announced part of their proceeds this month will go to Generation Rescue, the leading national autism organization. The Little Kernel is a healthy line of "miniature" popcorn snacks co-founded by Chris Laurita, husband of "Real Housewives of New Jersey" star Jacqueline Laurita.

The Little Kernel was inspired by their experience with their autistic son, Nicholas, who is 7. Determined to provide a better-for-you snack that fits specialty diet requirements typical for those with autism, Chris launched the brand along with business partner Andy Epstein with a focus on giving back to autism. The popcorn is made with only non-GMO, gluten-free and dairy-free ingredients – diet requirements typical for those with autism.

“Since founding The Little Kernel a little less than a year ago, the brand has made it a priority to give back to the autism community," Chris Laurita said. "By sharing my family’s journey and donating to Generation Rescue, we hope to help other families affected by autism spectrum disorders and continue to raise awareness."

Further, The Little Kernel is launching an ongoing charitable program where 25 cents per case of popcorn sold will be donated to Generation Rescue through 2017.

Generation Rescue was founded in 2005 by JB and Lisa Handley, parents of an autistic child who were looking for autism support resources. The information they learned from other parents about how to treat the underlying symptoms of autism, in order to improve a child's quality of life, became the inspiration for Generation Rescue.