Abilities of Northwest Jersey received a $10,860 from the Christopher and Dana Reeve Foundation National Paralysis Resource Center. Additionally, they received another grant, this one for $1,000, from Visions Federal Credit Union.

The grant is one of 21 grants totaling $580,934 issued in 2021 during the COVID-19 crisis to address social isolation issues. They are part of the Quality of Life Grants Program which supports nonprofit organizations that empower individuals living with paralysis. COVID-19 grants could be up to $50,000. They are geared to address social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic for people living with paralysis and their caregivers.

The funds will be applied towards Abilities’ Social Isolation Reduction Loan Closet, which enables individuals served by Abilities to receive remote access to services from home. The grant will allow Abilities to provide tablet technology and internet access to more than 10 participants. Each participants will received loaned technology for six-weeks. They can participate in music and art, education, exploration of their community, exercise and stretching, cooking and food fun, science, geography, and other programs. Abilities will also provide orientation and support services to help each individual learn the technology.

Visions Federal Credit Union, meanwhile, awarded a $1,000 grant to Abilities of Northwest Jersey, Inc., to construct a shed for the PossAbilities Thrift Boutique in Phillipsburg.

The thrift boutiques are in Phillipsburg and Flemington provide a service to shoppers and serve as skill training, career exploration, employment and volunteer opportunities for those served by Abilities. One of the impacts of the Coronavirus pandemic is the need to provide adequate social distancing in the storage area.

Visions Cares supports hundreds of causes such as grants and donations, employee volunteers and sponsorships to support community events

Abilities of Northwest Jersey’s main headquarters is located at 264 State Highway 31, Washington.