Somerville-based organization called a “lifeline” to families
SOMERVILLE, NJ. – Senate President Stephen Sweeney (D-3) visited the New Jersey Center for Tourette Syndrome (NJCTS) Tuesday on the heels of some very good news. Four years after severe budget cuts, the Center will receive a $250,000 grant in this year’s state budget.
This increase stands to benefit the tens of thousands of New Jersey residents living with this neurological disorder which is characterized by uncontrollable movements and sounds known as tics. Tourette. Syndrome (TS) affects as many as 1 in 100 people and is frequently accompanied by mental health disorders and learning disabilities. NJCTS has developed innovative programs to serve families, educators and medical professionals who encounter children with Tourette and its associated conditions. NJCTS has also partnered with Rutgers, Yale and other leading universities to further research into causes and treatments.
Describing the work of the Center as a lifeline to families, Sweeney likened NJCTS to other important organizations. “These are programs that, for a small amount of money, have enormous impacts,” said Sen. Sweeney. Regarding the work of NJCTS specifically, Sweeney says, “it’s one of these programs a lot of people on both sides of the aisle believed in and pushed for.”
Sweeney met with families living with TS during Tuesday’s visit to the Center. “By visiting with TS families firsthand, he delivered the legislature’s support- I know that means a lot especially to our teens who are leaning to advocate for themselves and others,” said NJCTS. Executive Director Faith W. Rice.
“We will put this grant to use in meeting our growing demand for services,” said Rice. To learn more about TS and its associated disorders, or about the work of NJCTS, call 908-575- 7350 or www.njcts.org.
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NJ Center for Tourette Syndrome and Associated Disorders, Inc.