Eagles’ Stadium Adding Popcorn Stand Staffed By Adults with Autism, Intellectual Disabilities

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The Philadelphia Eagles have worked to help the autism community for years, with the Eagles Autism Challenge, a sensory room at their stadium, and even hosting a sensory-friendly COVID-19 vaccine clinic. Now, they’re launching something new.

With the help of the Eagles Autism Foundation, the team’s Lincoln Financial Field is now adding a popcorn concession stand staffed by adults with autism and intellectual disabilities.

Team owner Jeffrey Lurie says, “Our hope is that a partnership like this can serve as a model for other organizations here in Philadelphia and around the country.”

In addition to tackling lower employment rates for people on the spectrum, the stand will also donate $1 from each bag to the Eagles Autism Foundation. The foundation focuses on research and advocacy. Through its Eagles Autism Challenge alone, a fundraising event for research and care programs, it has raised more than $20 million. It puts on a variety of other events, as well, including a 5k and a 50/50 raffle.

The popcorn stand joins the sensory room as another part of Lincoln Financial Field that aims to be inclusive of those with autism.

At the time that it was installed, Lurie said, “We made it an organizational priority to create a one-of-a-kind experience for guests in a safe, friendly and inclusive environment. It is truly heartwarming to know that this state-of-the-art sensory room will now provide a sense of ease and comfort for families and loved ones who may be experiencing sensory challenges at Lincoln Financial Field.”

So if you’re headed to an Eagles game this season and you get a little peckish, consider snagging some popcorn.

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