When their triplets were diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders, Hope and Eric Montgomery of Richmond struggled to get insurance companies to cover all the therapies and services their daughters needed. Seeing the family's difficulties inspired their good friend, Darla Farmer, to find a way to help the Montgomerys and other Fort Bend County families in a similar situation. So in April 2011, she founded Blessed Be Hope for Three.

Hope for Three is the only nonprofit in Fort Bend County focusing exclusively on autism spectrum disorders. They assist the families of children with various autism spectrum disorders by providing financial assistance, social support and community engagement programs.

Raising a child with an autism spectrum disorder is expensive, and insurance companies often do not provide adequate coverage, Farmer said. Weekly therapies and services for a child with an autism spectrum disorder can cost $600–$800, Farmer said. Many of these therapies have a social, behavioral or educational aspect and are not considered medically necessary by insurance companies. When a Fort Bend County family is approved for financial assistance, Hope for Three pays the provider directly.

"What insurance does cover is very, very limited for these families, so that's where we're able to step in and bridge that gap and help our families," Farmer said.

Hope for Three aims to help families in other ways as well. Through their "It's Cool to Care" program, they organize public speaking events at schools and organizations to educate young people about autism.

This program led to the formation of Hope for Three's "Teen Huddle," which aims to raise awareness and understanding about autism among teens. The Teen Huddle holds regular Sibling Sessions and Parents Time Outs for families.

April is Autism Awareness Month, and Hope for Three is holding several fundraising events throughout the month.

The organization's largest community outreach event and fundraiser—the second annual "Strike Out Autism"—is set for April 27 during the Sugar Land Skeeters' game.

Upcoming events

April is Autism Awareness Month, and Blessed Be Hope for Three has several events scheduled around town.

Car Wash for Kids

April 13, 11 a.m.–3 p.m.

Sugar Land's C&C Dental hosts the third annual car wash at 17003 Hwy. 59. Hope for Three's Teen Huddle program puts on the eco-friendly car wash.

Beauty Indulgence

April 13, 11 a.m.–5 p.m.

Sugar Land's Beauty Indulgence Day Spa offers $20 haircuts at 4715 Sweetwater Blvd. to benefit Hope for Three's family resources programs.

Strike Out Autism

April 27, 11:30 a.m.

The second annual family fun day at Constellation Field features pregame activities, seating for Hope for Three families and a silent auction. Admission is $12, and proceeds benefit the Blessed Be Hope for Three organization.

10200 W. Airport Blvd.

Stafford 1-800-317-0787

www.hopeforthree.org