HOUSTON, TX - The WithMerci Foundation is pleased to announce cerebral palsy as the 2018-19 partnering disability. Starting February 1, 2018, the application process will be available online at www.withmerci.org to all interested organizations supporting the aforementioned cause. Currently, WithMerci is working with Easter Seals of Greater Houston, Autism Rescue Angels and F.A.C.E.S. whereas each organization provides advocate services and support to families with autistic children. Whitney Mercilus and the WithMerci Foundation presented a total of $40,000.00 in donations to its autism partners during the annual Dine WithMerci fundraiser. Additionally, the WithMerci Foundation has donated $125,000.00 since its inception to support organizations servicing children with special needs.

According to Texas Children's Hospital, "cerebral palsy is a comprehensive term for an array of non-progressive motor syndromes that appear in infancy or early childhood, affecting two to three children out of every 1,000. Research shows that cerebral palsy is caused by a structural change in brain development that occurs before, during, or in the first few years after birth. Although, cerebral palsy cannot be cured with treatment, including therapy, tone management, assistive devices and specialized equipment, children can overcome developmental challenges, learn new skills, and improve their quality of life."

"I started the WithMerci Foundation because I have a passion to help families and underprivileged children with disabilities and special needs. I am especially excited about partnering with organizations servicing children with cerebral palsy because it allows us to operate as change agents, while assisting them in living a life without limits, said Mercilus.

For more information about Whitney Mercilus and the WithMerci Foundation, please visit www.withmerci.org.