top of page

Local Autism Support Services in Chambersburg, PA: A Guide for Parents & Caregivers

​

Created by Life After ABA Classroom

​

Caring for a child or adult with autism is a journey filled with love, resilience, and learning. But even the strongest caregivers need support—especially when navigating services, trauma, behaviors, and the day-to-day demands of autism.
If you live in Chambersburg, PA or the surrounding areas, you’re not alone. Our community has a number of programs designed to support families just like yours.

Whether you are looking for emotional support, respite, behavioral services, or resources to strengthen your child’s independence, this guide will connect you to the most helpful organizations in Franklin County and nearby communities.

​

1. Franklin/Fulton MH-IDD Services

​

Location: Chambersburg, PA
Website: Franklin County MH/IDD
Franklin County’s Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities (IDD) program is the primary entry point for families needing autism-related support.

They help caregivers with:

  • Supports Coordination

  • Respite and in-home supports

  • Home and Community-Based Services

  • Lifesharing/Companion programs

  • Advocacy and access to state programs

This is the first place to contact if you are seeking long-term support for your child or adult with autism.

​

2. Early Intervention Services (Birth–3)

​

If your child is younger than 3, Franklin County’s Early Intervention program provides free services in your home:

  • Speech therapy

  • Occupational therapy

  • Developmental therapy

  • Parent coaching

Early support makes a tremendous difference—and EI programs partner closely with caregivers to build routines, communication, and confidence.

​

3. ASERT (Autism Services, Education, Resources & Training)

ASERT’s South-Central region covers Franklin County and offers a huge library of resources, including:

  • Free social stories

  • Printable behavior supports

  • Caregiver training modules

  • Local support groups

  • Event listings

Their website is a treasure for caregivers who want practical tools at their fingertips.

​

4. Franklin County Asperger’s/HFA Parent Support Group

Meets monthly at: St. Luke’s Evangelical Lutheran Church, Chambersburg
This local support group is a warm, welcoming space for caregivers raising children or adults with autism.

Families can connect, share strategies, talk openly, and support one another through both challenges and victories.
For caregivers who feel isolated, this group can be life-changing.

​

5. Laurel Life – ABA & Behavioral Services

Laurel Life provides therapeutic and behavioral services for children and adults, including:

  • Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA)

  • Skill-building

  • Social development

  • Caregiver coaching

  • Trauma-informed support

Their approach includes caregivers as partners, which makes it easier to use strategies at home and in the community.

​

6. Merakey Behavioral Health & Autism Programs

Serving the Chambersburg and Shippensburg region, Merakey offers:

  • Behavior support

  • In-home programs

  • Family-based services

  • Social and emotional skill-building

This is a strong option for families needing structured, skill-focused support.

​

7. The Arc of Franklin & Fulton Counties

The Arc is one of the most trusted disability advocacy organizations in Pennsylvania.

Their services include:

  • Parent and caregiver support

  • Advocacy for school, home, and community needs

  • Education and training

  • Recreational opportunities

  • Help navigating the system

They are an excellent resource when you need guidance, support, or someone to speak on behalf of your loved one.

​

8. TrueNorth Wellness Services

TrueNorth provides trauma-informed outpatient therapy and family-based services across Chambersburg, Waynesboro, and Shippensburg.

Caregivers can also receive support for:

  • Anxiety and stress

  • Burnout

  • Trauma related to caregiving

  • Navigating behavioral challenges

This can be especially important for families experiencing PTSD, caregiver exhaustion, or emotional overwhelm.

​

9. PennCares Support Services (Gettysburg Area)

PennCares offers comprehensive services for families including:

Developmental and behavioral programs

  • In-home supports

  • Parent/caregiver coaching

  • Family-centered therapy
    Because they serve Adams and Franklin Counties, they are a helpful nearby resource for specialized autism supports.

​

10. Recreational & Inclusive Community Programs

​Local organizations offer sensory-friendly programs, inclusive activities, and adaptive recreation:

  • Chambersburg YMCA – Adaptive sports and activities

  • Libraries and parks – Sensory-friendly events

  • Community centers – Autism-friendly holiday programs

These programs help autistic individuals build confidence, social skills, and new memories—while giving caregivers a supportive community.

​

Why Local Support Matters

​

As caregivers, we often carry invisible loads—coordinating services, managing behaviors, navigating emotions, and creating structure every day.
Having support is not a luxury; it’s essential.

Knowing where to turn can help you:

  • Reduce stress and burnout

  • Understand your child’s strengths

  • Access services you may qualify for

  • Build a community of people who understand

  • Find strategies that work

  • Strengthen independence for your child or adult loved one

You deserve support just as much as your child does.
You’re not alone, and help is available.

bottom of page