Los Banos, CA (January 14, 2026) — CalLINKS, in partnership with First 5 Merced County, has launched First Steps Together, a free family support program designed to support parents and caregivers of young children who have been recently diagnosed with autism, are currently in the evaluation process, or whose families are beginning to notice early developmental concerns.
In a statement released by CalLINKS, the organization said the program was born out of both professional insight and deeply personal experience. Omar Garcia-Morales, program coordinator at CalLINKS, said he understands “the uncertainty, fear, and overwhelming number of questions” families face when they first receive an autism diagnosis. As a parent of a four-year-old son with autism, Garcia-Morales said he found himself navigating unfamiliar systems, facing long waitlists, and struggling to find clear answers or trusted guidance.
CalLINKS said Garcia-Morales partnered with Patricia Alcocer, executive director of CalLINKS, to create a program rooted in equity, compassion, cultural sensitivity, and lived experience. In the statement, the organization described First Steps Together as a safe and welcoming space where parents can ask questions, share concerns, and receive meaningful support from other parents, including those currently on the journey and those with lived experience who can offer guidance and reassurance.
According to CalLINKS, First Steps Together offers individualized case management to help families navigate services and community resources while reducing the stress that often accompanies complex systems. The program also provides peer support and mentorship by connecting parents with trained mentors who share lived experience, offering emotional support, encouragement, and practical insight.
The program includes educational workshops that give families opportunities to learn more about autism, advocacy, early intervention strategies, and local resources. CalLINKS said the workshops are intended to foster connection, build confidence, and empower parents with knowledge so they can make informed decisions for their children and families.
A key component of First Steps Together is a Lending Library created in direct response to the financial realities many families face. In its statement, CalLINKS said some families may not have the means to purchase sensory toys or autism communication devices simply to try them. The Lending Library allows families to check out these items free of charge for a short period of time, giving children access to tools that support developmental skills through play while helping parents learn how to engage more effectively with their children at home. CalLINKS said the Lending Library removes financial barriers and helps families determine which resources best meet their child’s unique needs without the burden of cost.
As part of its autism support efforts, CalLINKS will host a free Autism Awareness & Support Workshop on January 24, 2026. According to CalLINKS, the workshop is open to parents, caregivers, educators, service providers, and community members interested in learning more about autism. The workshop will cover practical strategies for supporting individuals on the autism spectrum, early signs and intervention approaches, communication tools, and ways to build more inclusive environments.
The launch of First Steps Together comes as autism identification continues to rise nationwide. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 1 in 31 children in the United States have been identified with autism spectrum disorder. Experts have emphasized the importance of early support and access to resources, noting that early guidance and family education can play a critical role in helping children and families navigate developmental challenges.
CalLINKS said through its comprehensive approach of combining case management, peer support, educational workshops, and the Lending Library, First Steps Together aims to ensure families receive the support, guidance, and reassurance they need during one of the most challenging and uncertain times in their lives.
Information about the programs are available below.
