(Courtesy of Chasdei Lev) When a special child is born, the entire family is affected. The special child, parent, and siblings face enormous physical and emotional challenges. Thankfully these families are not alone. The Special Children’s Center is there for them every step of their arduous journey.
Over the years The Center has made an incredible transformation, shining a light on the beauty of a special child. Creating connections through love and sharing their happiness with the world around them. The Center understands the difficult challenges and is there for every single one of them; they lay the stepping stones for the families, supporting them with 24/7 respite and constant guidance. Today The Center has over 950 professional staff and dedicated volunteers in over 20 programs servicing children and adults across the tri-state area.
Once again Chaya Bender and Jenine Shwekey have created a revolution—changing the notion of a “group home” as being dark, cold and gloomy, into it being a loving, warm atmosphere fostering self-fulfillment, personal growth and achievement. Chasdei Lev Residential Services are the first licensed Orthodox, kosher group homes in New Jersey. The Center transitions from being “extended family” to “immediate family” providing each client with exceptional care and stability. Each home has a team of professional and intuitive staff invested in giving each client the opportunity to reach their full potential. The homes are comfortable and beautifully designed, nestled in culturally Jewish neighborhoods to promote community integration and appropriate adult independence.
Families are involved every step of the way, and as their child transitions into the home, the enormous pressures melt away, and once again the families can appreciate their children for who they are and spend joyous times together. The Center continues to roll out the red carpet for families with children and adults with special needs, preparing a safety net just when the community calls out.
Chasdei Lev Adult Residential Services are rapidly spreading across New Jersey for adults over 21 years of age with developmental disabilities. For more information feel free to contact The Special Children’s Center at 732-367-0099, ext. 109 or visit www.thecenternj.org.
