In an effort to increase the social awareness of autism among high school students, FirstCare Medical Plan has partnered with R.E.A.C.H. (Resources and Education for Autism and Related Challenges) Bahamas and the Ministry of Education to host its second essay contest for senior school students.
Students in grades 10 through 12 can submit essays of 800 to 1,000 words on the topic 'Autism in The Bahamas: Inclusion, Advocacy and Dispelling Myths'. Submissions will be accepted through May 16. Essay submissions can be emailed to tyrina@firstcaremedicalplan.com.
The winner will receive $300, with the first and second runners-up receiving $200. Each winner will also be provided with additional prizes from The Shoe Village and Custom Computers.
Last year, more than 60 essay submissions were received from students on Grand Bahama, Acklins and Exuma.
"We were so moved by the significant response and the intelligent essays written by the students who participated in the inaugural essay contest that we felt compelled to partner with R.E.A.C.H. and the Ministry of Education once again on this initiative," said Corinna Neely, president of FirstCare Medical Plan.
"This is a cause that is near and dear to our company and we are honored to be a part of the discussion on autism awareness in The Bahamas."
R.E.A.C.H. Bahamas is a non-profit organization that provides parents of autistic children with comprehensive knowledge and tools to treat the disorder.
"Our goal here at R.E.A.C.H. is to sensitize the general public and bring more awareness to autism in our country," said Mario Carey, president of R.E.A.C.H. Bahamas. "We truly appreciate the partnership between our organization and FirstCare Medical Plan to put on this essay competition. This competition is not only dynamic, it is essential because it brings awareness to students in The Bahamas."

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