For 11-year-old Jake, who lives with autism and anxiety, everyday tasks like getting dressed or leaving the house can be difficult. Crowds, loud noises, and unpredictable environments can quickly become overwhelming — and with limited speech, it’s often hard for Jake to communicate when things get too much.

“Although Jake is 11, his mental age is more like a 3- to 4-year-old,” his mum explains. “Simple routines can feel huge. And when we’re out and about, we don’t always know when he’s reached his limit — he struggles to tell us.”

Jake’s family had long hoped to access an interactive projector — a therapeutic device full of games that support communication, emotional regulation, and learning through play. But like many tools for children with additional needs, the price was far out of reach. As Jake’s full-time carer, his mum is unable to work, and the rising cost of living leaves no room for extras. That’s when she turned to Variety.

Jake’s family were awarded funding for the projector — a device that has since made a huge difference not only to Jake’s daily life but also to his family’s wellbeing.