Lehigh Valley Health Network, part of Jefferson Health, is equipping local first responders with new tools to better support community members with autism and those experiencing sensory overload or behavioral health crises.

On Aug. 22, LVHN hosted a Sensory Bag Pickup Party for EMS partners from Lehigh, Northampton and Monroe counties at the Frank Banko Educational Conference Center, LVHN - Muhlenberg.

Each bag contains items such as noise-reducing earmuffs, weighted blankets and nonverbal cue cards – simple tools to help calm patients, de-escalate stressful situations and ensure safer, more compassionate care.

“Children on the autism spectrum or those with behavioral health issues like depression, anxiety or trauma look to us for help,” Kyle Albrecht, senior EMS/inter-facility liaison for LVHN said. “These sensory bags provide simple yet powerful tools that can dramatically change the outcome of a situation and the lasting effects it may have on one child – or many.”

Albrecht shared a recent example of the bags in action. A patient in distress was being considered for sedation when Allentown EMS paramedics Andre Harris and Travis Tripp arrived with a sensory kit. “They were able to use the kit to de-escalate the patient and make it a safer, more positive experience,” Albrecht said.

Inspired by that success, Albrecht pitched the idea of expanding access to sensory bags. With support from LVHN’s Office of Philanthropy, funding was secured through the Lehigh Valley Community Health Fund to distribute 175 sensory kits to EMS providers across the three counties.

Keith Micucci, chief operating officer at Lehigh Valley Hospital – Muhlenberg, emphasized the importance of partnership: “You are our partners in care, and your commitment is clear by your participation in this initiative.”

The sensory bag effort complements LVHN’s Blue Envelope Program, launched earlier this year, which provides drivers with autism spectrum disorder a blue envelope containing instructions for traffic stops. The envelope helps law enforcement officers understand whether a driver is verbal or nonverbal and offers tips for a smoother interaction.

“Both programs align with our mission to support vulnerable populations in the community,” Albrecht said. “We hope to expand them into new regions in the future.”

Approximately 21 different EMS stations attended and picked up sensory bags. For EMS who were unable to attend, LVHN will be distributing additional bags.