Frequently Asked Questions

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To assist first and secondary responders with sensory bags and knowledge to improve interactions with individuals experiencing sensory overstimulation, especially those on the autism spectrum and others with cognitive disabilities, during emergencies and non-emergencies. 

Ben’s Blue Bags was founded in 2019. As a captain and paramedic with the Crown Point Fire Department, and the father of a child on the autism spectrum, Matt Kodicek recognized that many first responders lacked the essential tools to care for children on the spectrum, including his 5-year-old son, Ben Kodicek. Therefore, he aimed to make a difference. 

Dry-erase boards, markers, communication boards, noise-canceling headphones, and additional sensory calming tools are included, which can support de-escalation in emergency and non-emergency situations. 

First, Ben’s favorite color has always been blue, which he always seems to want to wear. Blue is often seen as a calming color and is used to indicate the bag's purpose visually for sensory support. 

You can contact bensbluebags@gmail.com or send us a message on Facebook. The bags are a $125 donation plus shipping. Ben’s Blue Bags does donate bags to individuals and organizations that may not be able to afford bags from time to time.  

Although primarily aimed at individuals on the autism spectrum, the bags can also provide benefits for anyone facing high anxiety or sensory overload in stressful situations. 

A medical study published by Dr. Eric Lombardi revealed that over eight months in 2023, 77 EMS providers participated in a survey assessing the effectiveness of BBBs. The results show that 94.2% of respondents believed BBBs enhanced their ability to deliver high-quality care for individuals with ASD.  

Ben’s Blue Bags has 700+ bags used by 3,000+ first responders in 7 states and Canada.