The Toy Foundation Grant Fuels Transformative Growth of Children’s Specialized Hospital’s Activity Connection Program
Mountainside, NJ - Thanks to a generous grant from The Toy Foundation, Children’s Specialized Hospital’s (CSH) Activity Connection Program (ACP) has been empowered to address a critical gap in inclusive, adaptive recreational and therapeutic activities for children and teens with unique healthcare needs. The Toy Foundation's Children's Hospital Play Grant has enabled ACP to expand its reach, providing high-quality programs to more communities and enhancing the physical, emotional, and social well-being of participants.
“Play is not just recreational; it is essential for growth,” said Alissa Memoli, President and Chief Development Officer, CSH Foundation. “Thanks to the generosity of The Toy Foundation, we’ve been able to expand important Activity Connection programs, ensuring that children with unique health challenges have access to inclusive activities that promote confidence, independence, and meaningful connections.”
Since receiving the grant, ACP has experienced unprecedented demand, with several programs reaching maximum capacity—a clear reflection of the significant need for these offerings and their effectiveness. Over 1,385 participants—including patients, siblings, and parents—have benefited from activities designed to foster multi-sensory engagement, social interaction, motor skill development, and essential life skills.
The grant has been transformative for families, many of whom face financial challenges that make it difficult to access specialized care and therapies. At CSH, over 60% of families report financial hardships. To address this, ACP offers its programs at reduced rates, ensuring no child is denied the opportunity to participate due to cost.
Play is a cornerstone of treatment for children with special healthcare needs, fostering emotional, physical, and social development. Through adaptive activities, participants achieve improved rehabilitation outcomes, increased social inclusion, and enhanced emotional resilience. Structured play also helps children build critical life skills like turn-taking, teamwork, and communication, contributing to long-term success in school, the workplace, and society.
Families have shared heartwarming stories of growth and joy experienced through ACP programs. One participant, after attending a surfing day organized by ACP, said, “I had not gone to the beach since before my accident, and just sitting on the beach, feeling the breeze, and watching the waves was incredible. Getting in the water, lying on a surfboard, and catching a wave was unforgettable. On behalf of my parents, I want to thank everyone for creating these events.”
ACP’s inclusive programs fill a vital void in local communities, where adaptive recreational opportunities are often limited or nonexistent. By expanding its reach, the program is not only enhancing the health and well-being of individual participants but also fostering a more inclusive community where every child can thrive.
With continued support, CSH aims to expand its community programs further, ensuring that no child is left behind in their journey toward health and happiness.
CLICK HERE for more information about Children's Specialized Hospital's Activity Connection Program.
About The Toy Foundation
The Toy Foundation (TTF) is a 501 (c)3 children's charity whose mission is to provide philanthropic support and the vital commodity of play to children and families under stress and in dire situations across the country and globe.
