On April 1, we started Autism Acceptance Month by welcoming Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill (CD-11) to our Chatham school. Chatham Borough Mayor Carolyn Dempsey, Council President Jocelyn Mathiasen, and other council members and borough officials joined the Congresswoman for a big check presentation!
Rep. Sherrill delivered $850,000 in Community Project Funding to undertake renovations at the school, which is leased from Chatham Borough.
President Biden signed federal legislation containing provisions introduced by Rep. Sherrill granting a total of $16 million in project funding, including $850,000 to the Borough of Chatham in partnership with ECLC of New Jersey. This grant will aid in the redesign and renovations of classrooms and other interior spaces within the 101-year-old school.
Mayor Dempsey commented on the value of this grant in alleviating the need for local funds. “Helping out ECLC and modernizing the facilities here has been a priority, and one we have been working to address for many years. We are so appreciative that our member of Congress is so dedicated to bringing funds to the district for important projects like this one,” said Dempsey.
ECLC parents Jimmy and Karen Bellas, who own a local restaurant Sorriso Kitchen on Main Street, were also on hand. They provide a weekly restaurant work-skills program to our students.
We are excited to see much-needed upgrades underway to better serve our students!