Florida Companies Join to Raise Autism Funds and Awareness

MIAMI, April 7 /PRNewswire/ -- IMUSA USA and Sedano's Supermarkets today announced a joint initiative to generate awareness and raise funds for Autism Speaks. In all 34 Sedano's Supermarkets from April 14th - May 15th, Sedano's customers will be encouraged to purchase a $1 puzzle piece to support autism research. The interlocking multi-colored puzzle piece has become the international symbol of autism.

"Autism is all around us and affects our community and our customers. IMUSA is a proud sponsor of Autism Speaks. Through our network of clients and friends, we help raise awareness, gather funds and advocate on behalf of Autism Speaks," said Manny Gaunaurd, president of IMUSA USA.

"Autism affects one in every 110 children, and Sedano's is honored to help raise awareness for a disease that touches so many children throughout South Florida. We invite the community to stop by our stores and donate $1 for Autism Speaks," said Javier Herran, director of marketing, Sedano's Supermarkets.

• Autism spectrum disorders affects four times as many boys as girls. The diagnosis has increased tenfold in the last decade.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have called autism a national public health crisis whose cause and cure remain unknown.
• There is no medical detection or cure for autism.
• More children will be diagnosed with autism this year than with AIDS, diabetes, and cancer combined.

As the first cookware company to support Autism Speaks, IMUSA USA's partnership is making a difference through significant monetary contributions to research, by developing a series of gluten-free recipes for autistic children and as an advocate, supporter, and sponsor of local fundraising activities. http://www.imusausa.com.

SOURCE IMUSA