Arc of Essex County Gets Grant from Provident Bank Foundation

The Provident Bank Foundation recently donated $3,500 to for its “Down Syndrome Parent-to-Parent” program, which provides support to parents of children with Down syndrome and puts them in touch with other parents who can share similar experiences as only other parents can.

“This wonderful donation will enable us to assist new parents of infants born with Down syndrome and provide family members with current, educational information and support services,” said Linda Lucas, executive director of The Arc of Essex County. “We truly appreciate the support of Provident Bank Foundation.”

The “Down Syndrome Parent-to-Parent” program makes early contact with new parents of babies with Down syndrome, offering informative and supportive materials. A member of the group visits the hospital or home to supply information to new parents, including an introductory letter, fact sheets, current books, pamphlets and personalized stories. After receiving the free information packet, new parents are offered additional support from other parents of children with the same syndrome.

“The ‘Down Syndrome Parent-to-Parent’ program is one of many excellent programs offered by The Arc of Essex County that directly helps people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families,” said Kendall Warsaw, executive director of The Provident Bank Foundation. “We are proud to support a program that helps families of children with Down syndrome better understand this disorder and make informed decisions regarding the care of their child.”

The Arc of Essex County was founded by a group of dedicated parents to provide services to children and adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities. With more than 40 programs offered for individuals with disabilities, The Arc of Essex County works with more than 1,300 people each week.

More information about The Arc of Essex County is available at www.arcessex.org  or by calling (973) 535-1181. For more information about The Provident Bank Foundation, visit www.ProvidentNJFoundation.org.