WKU breaks ground on housing complex for autistic students

BOWLING GREEN, Ky.- Lifeworks at Western Kentucky University broke ground on a new housing complex for students with autism transitioning from college.

Monday morning WKU President Tim Caboni, and board members of Lifeworks at WKU, broke ground on a residential housing complex located at 1328 Adams Street.

The existing apartment buildings will be renovated to house up to 26 students on the autism spectrum.

The goal of the 2-year program is to provide both housing and life support to those students as they move into the workforce.

President Caboni explained it’s not only a help for students, but also the local community.

“We need to do everything in our power to help these people who might be challenged with some social skills, or getting work on time skills, or taking care of themselves at home skills. So that they can enter the workforce and not just be productive members of society, but help elevate our entire region,” said Caboni.

The program will launch with six students, all 21 years and older.