Downey Statement on NJ Department of Human Services Awarding $1.3 Million in Grants to Help Individuals With Disabilities

(TRENTON) – On January 6, the New Jersey Department of Human Services awarded 18 grants implementing initiatives to ensure comprehensive community planning that will greatly aid people with disabilities in their daily endeavors to live their lives, work, learn, and play.

The Division of Disability Services awarded $1.3 million to selected organizations in its first Inclusive Healthy Communities Grant Program (IHC).  The applicants submitted proposals for building grants up to $100,000 or implementation grants of up to $250,000.  The funding for these 18 programs will run through June 30, 2022.

Assemblywoman Joann Downey (D-Monmouth), chair of the Assembly Human Services Committee, issued the following statement:

“These grants are an incredible step towards helping disabled people in New Jersey and will give them better access to conditions that support their health and well-being.  As a result, those with disabilities will have better access to programs and conditions emphasizing health and activity within their own communities.

“Communities have a responsibility and are integral in creating a safe and healthy environment for everyone.  These initiatives will help to better assess current health practices and services along with other physical, environmental, and social challenges that people with disabilities face.  The grants will help tremendously and point our state in a better direction towards helping the disabled community.”