With the loss of the Pre-kindergarten Early Start Grant that was cut last legislative session, the funding for Night of the Child—an event for disabled children and their families—was not available this year. But that didn't stop Suzanne Schnars.

Schnars, coordinator of early childhood programs in Pflugerville ISD, and a few others raised $3,000 for the event, which will occur April 3.

Schnars' fellow fundraisers were Debby Krueger, Title 1 parent liaison for student services, and Cynthia Garcia Castillo, also of PISD student services, and a few unexpected ones as well.

"Even one of our teachers found a financial sponsor," Schnars said.

This free event is so important, Schnars said, because it gathers all the resources for parents of disabled children into one place while offering a free dinner, play areas and live music. It's also what Schnars calls a "barrier-free" event.

"Oftentimes, families don't attend events because of barriers," Schnars said. "Since the event is no charge, this eliminates a major obstacle. Another common obstacle is parking, but the event is at a high school, so this isn't an issue. Going home and eating first is another potential barrier, so we're providing dinner as well. It's difficult to work all day, come home and prepare a meal and go out again. This event combines many activities at the same location."

Schnars also calls this event a "labor of love" from PISD to disabled children and their families.

Schnars, a parent of a child with severe disabilities, said if someone hadn't told her about these disability services, she wouldn't be able to work today, since the program her daugher is currently in had a seven-year waiting period.

"The contacts some of these families make will support their children—especially when they age out of services," Schnars said. "This is important for our families in pre-k as well as many of our families who work several jobs and do not have time to learn about health insurance options, dental care, educational materials, etc."

Aside from the resource fair, the evening will feature balloon-animal artists, bounce houses, snow cones, information about healthy eating and gardening, craft activities, face painting and a performance from Austin musician Joe McDermott, who specializes in children's music.

"Joe is a beloved performer," Schnars said. "He's been gracious to give us a discounted price for this event."

The dinner—free for attendees and provided by Papa John's at a discounted rate—will consist of pizza, dessert and water or juice boxes. There will also be a gluten-free food table, sponsored by ConnectCare Home Therapy for Kids.

To help estimate how much food is needed, RSVPs are requested. Each RSVP will be entered into a drawing for several door prizes donated by various companies. Schnars expects a turnout of 1,200 people.

"It is so important for families of disabled children to attend this event if they can," Schnars said. "As funding for services become harder to obtain, it's imperative for families to get on the waiting lists of some of these programs as soon as possible."

April 3 Night of the Child

Connally High School

13212 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin 78753

5:30–7:30 p.m. 594-0173