Craig School Gives to Wanaque Center

It took Tracy Rosky five trips in her SUV during the holidays to transport a whole garage full of gifts from Craig School students to the Wanaque Center in Haskell, New Jersey for children with severe neurological and medical impairments. “The response from Craig children and their parents was astounding,” said Mrs. Rosky, “and included over 150 shopping bags filled with developmental toys, soft fleece blankets, winter jackets, puzzles, socks, and even a computer."

According to Gina Meltzer, Director of Activities at Wanaque, some of the most treasured presents were a number of “Boppy Pillows” which allow babies on ventilators to sit up without the support of an adult. “Our babies are very sensitive to touch and the pillows give them more independence,” commented Ms. Meltzer, “and the interactive toys were also a hit since our kids have to learn how to interact with things, to understand cause and effect, a concept that may take years to grasp.”

The Wanaque Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation cares for approximately 85 children, most of whom are under the age of 8 and are unable to manage for themselves. Many are victims of fetal alcohol syndrome and other severe disorders. Mrs. Rosky learned of the Wanaque Center through a neighbor who has adopted five children from the Center. As this year’s Chair of the Holiday Committee of the parents’ organization at Craig, she felt it would be particularly appropriate for Craig children to have the opportunity to reach out to other children during the holiday season.

Ms. Meltzer remarked that very few of the Wanaque children have families since most have been referred through state organizations. “There were hardly any gifts before Mrs. Rosky arrived. It was amazing! You guys did a wonderful thing.”