Middletown Gets Grant For Summer Recreation Inclusion Program

Middletown’s Summer Recreation Inclusion Program has been awarded a $20,000 grant from the state Recreational Opportunities for Individuals with Disabilities (ROID) grant program.

“It’s great news that Middletown has received a second grant from this highly competitive program,” Mayor Stephanie Murray said in a prepared statement. “This funding will allow us to further enhance our Summer Recreation Inclusion program which brings children of all abilities together to learn social skills and interact with each other.”

This is the second year in a row the township has received this grant.

According to a township news release:

“The Middletown Summer Recreation Inclusion Program gives children with various disorders the opportunity to participate in a summer camp alongside their peers. Often children with disorders such as ADHD, disruptive behavior disorders, anxiety disorders and Asperger’s syndrome do not qualify for extended year school programs through their districts,” according to Middletown Administrator Anthony P. Mercantante.

Officials plan to use the grant to expand the program to include a weekly series on careers and a summer­long building project.

“The series will start with a mechanic who would introduce the campers their summer project – construction of a surrey bike, a doorless four­wheeled carriage. Campers will meet different professionals each week and have the opportunity to take a trip to each professional’s workplace.”

They will also use the funds to create a quiet room, with bean bag chairs, iPads and other quiet games for children on the autism spectrum. The program started in 2013.

“The program’s director, Matt Strobel, Psy.D., works with participants to evaluate their individual needs and creates a curriculum which helps the children develop skills necessary for participation in summer camps and other activities throughout their lives. Lessons taught can include rule setting and following, addressing feelings, social skills, goal setting and problem solving.”

For more information, call the Recreation Department at 732­-615-­2260.