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Chuck E. Cheese celebrating autism month with fundraising, special Sunday event

Photo by istock.com

April 1, 2022

Family entertainment center Chuck E. Cheese is celebrating Autism Awareness month with a kick-off program, Sensory Sensitive Sunday, at over 400 locations in the U.S. and Canada.

The pizza brand will also be raising money for research and advocacy during April, according to a press release.

The Sensory Sensitive Sundays program, designed in partnership with The Center for Autism and Related Disorders in 2016, was created to further the brand's mission to provide a safe, fun, inclusive place "Where Every Kid Can Be a Kid."

On April 3 participating restaurants will open two hours early to create dedicated playtime for children with autism and other special sensory needs.

"We take a great deal of pride and care in supporting families and children living with autism with our Sensory Sensitive Sundays," CEC Entertainment Chief Marketing Officer Sherri Landry said in the release. "Chuck E. Cheese is the place where every kid can be a kid, and we work to ensure all kids can experience the joy and wonder of Chuck E. Cheese by offering understanding, inclusion and acceptance through this program."

Additionally, throughout April, Chuck E. Cheese guests can donate to Autism Speaks by rounding up purchases to the nearest dollar or adding a $1, $3 or $5 donation at checkout. All contributions will support Autism Speaks' research, advocacy efforts, programs and services. Last April, Chuck E. Cheese raised more than $23,600.

"Our partnership with Chuck E. Cheese is instrumental in helping us realize our vision of a world where all people with autism can reach their full potential," Autism Speaks President and CEO Keith Wargo said in the release. "By demonstrating care and understanding through the Sensory Sensitive Sundays program and encouraging guests to be aware and contribute, Chuck E. Cheese is helping move the needle for families living with autism."