Spring is here and children with varying abilities can enjoy plenty of seasonal fun at this year’s Burlington County Spring Resource Fair and Egg Hunt.
The annual event is being held on Saturday, April 12, from 10 AM to 1 PM at the Burlington County Special Services School, 20 Pioneer Boulevard, Westampton. Come out for sensory-friendly egg hunts and other games, music, food, touch-a-truck displays, plus information from dozens of vendors, agencies and service providers.
The event is sponsored and organized by the Burlington County Sheriff’s Office, Burlington County Special Services School District and Burlington County Commissioners. It is one of the largest and most popular events of its kind in South Jersey.
“It’s gratifying to organize a community event that allows families with children with all different abilities to enjoy all the fun associated with the spring and its holidays,” said Burlington County Sheriff James Kostoplis. “This event is also an opportunity to share information and have our officers and other first responders from across the county interact and build stronger community ties.”
“Whether it’s creating inclusive playgrounds and trails or events like the Spring Resource Fair and Egg Hunt, Burlington County strives to be one of the most inclusive and accessible destinations in the nation,” added Burlington County Commissioner Deputy Director Allison Eckel, the liaison to the Burlington County Special Services School District. “In Burlington County, we don’t just talk about becoming more inclusive, our County is making changes and taking action to make residents of all abilities and their families feel welcome and included.”
Among the services residents can learn about is the Sheriff’s Office’s new upgraded locator technology, AngelSense. The service allows the Sheriff’s Office and participating police departments to track and locate vulnerable residents, including children with developmental disabilities, and adults with dementia or Alzheimer’s.
The update was funded with a $150,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Justice.
In addition to the egg hunts and other games, children can also enjoy the Special Services School’s inclusive playground with barrier-free equipment, including adaptive swings, sensory-friendly playhouses, slides and more.
The playground was funded through a special cost-share agreement between the school district and Burlington County Commissioners. It is open to the public when school is not in session.
Dr. Ashanti Holley, superintendent of the Burlington County Special Services School District/Burlington County Institute of Technology, said the Spring Resource Fair and Egg Hunt was a favorite for students, parents and school staff.
“The Spring Resource Fair and Egg Hunt reflects our commitment to inclusion and community,” said Dr. Holley. “It’s a day where every child can feel welcomed, supported and celebrated.”