JACKSON — Municipal officials announced on Oct. 2 that a $15,000 grant from the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs (DCA) was recently awarded to Jackson to help fund a township program that provides recreational activities for disabled and handicapped residents.
“I am pleased with this award as our community aspires to provide equal opportunities to all persons,” Mayor Michael Reina said.
Officials said the grant, provided by the DCA’s Recreational Opportunities for Individuals with Disabilities (ROID) program, will go directly toward funding Jackson’s Commission for the Disabled and Handicapped.
Throughout the year, the commission has been working to create fun and engaging programs for the township’s disabled population, according to a press release.
One program that has gained traction in recent years is the Challenger Sports League, which gives individuals who have a disability a place to have fun, exercise, and learn a sport such as soccer, basketball, softball and gymnastics in a noncompetitive setting.
Officials said the grant will help the commission continue to pay for the equipment, uniforms and other necessary items for the Challenger Sports League and other programs it provides.
“With the help of this grant we can expand on those opportunities,” Reina said. “It is a win-win situation for all.”