HARRISON, N.J. – The Red Bulls announced Saturday plans to convert executive office space inside of Red Bull Arena into a permanent area for families affected by Autism.

The space will be available at all matches at no additional charge.

The announcement came prior to Autism Awareness Night at RBA as the Red Bulls host the Chicago Fire at 7:30 p.m. Saturday.

“Autism impacts my family and countless others everyday,” Red Bulls general manager Marc de Grandpre said in a statement. “Families deserve to feel welcome and comfortable each time they step foot into Red Bull Arena, not just one night a year. We hope all sports teams and entertainment venues are inspired to take similar action to provide comfort for families with loved ones on the Autism spectrum.”

The room will occupy space previously used as executive offices, which overlook the field near midfield. The club teamed up with the family services team from Autism Awareness to design the room, which provides space for families to enjoy Red Bulls games while sitting inside, away from the bulk of the noise from the stadium.

The room will feature dimmed lighting and lightly-colored walls to offer a soothing effect, along with visual aids, fidget toys and other activities. The room will also have sensory sacks, similar to the ones handed out at Autism Awareness Night, which include headphones and stress balls among other items.

Families interested in gaining access the room for MLS matches can contact New York Red Bulls Guest Services.

Front Row Soccer editor Michael Lewis has covered 13 World Cups (eight men, five women), seven Olympics and 25 MLS Cups. He has written about New York City FC, New York Cosmos, the New York Red Bulls and both U.S. national teams for Newsday and has penned a soccer history column for the Guardian.com. Lewis, who has been honored by the Press Club of Long Island and National Soccer Coaches Association of America, is the former editor of BigAppleSoccer.com. He has written seven books about the beautiful game and has published ALIVE AND KICKING The incredible but true story of the Rochester Lancers. It is available at Amazon.com.