MELBOURNE, Fla. — There's a new program at Melbourne Orlando International Airport aimed at helping those with "hidden disabilities."


What You Need To Know

  •  Melbourne Orlando International Airport just started the Sunflower Program

  •  The program's aim is to speak with passengers who may have "hidden disabilities"

  • Those include things like autism, dementia, or mobility, speech, visual and hearing impairments

Airport ambassador Anushka Boyd was getting ready Tuesday for a stroll around the terminal to deliver symbols of comfort.

"It's going really well, actually, the lanyards are bright green and yellow, and it helps our guests be more noticeable," Boyd said.

The lanyards are part of the Sunflower Program, which just started at the airport.

The aim is to speak to passengers who may have "hidden disabilities" — things like autism, dementia, or mobility, speech, visual and hearing impairments.

"Having this program definitely takes our team to that next step, and makes everyone feel more welcome, and more comfortable with traveling," said Boyd. "And make the experience that much better."

One of the boxes sits right in front of concierge Shearyl Griffin, who knows firsthand how people's issues can be difficult to see unless you go behind the scenes.

"My son has a speech impairment, and he has a learning disability," said Griffin. "It's very hard for him sometimes to speak, and explain it to people. These new bands, it will make it so they know there's an issue they can't visibly see. I think it's awesome."

It's a sign, Boyd said, that the airport cares for those who need help or support in a subtle way.

"Having the passengers be able to identify our employees at the airport and feel more confident and approachable, it makes the experience at MLB all much better," she said.

The Sunflower Program began in the UK back in 2016.