News & Press Releases
JERSEY GARDENS to Host ‘Sensitive Santa®’ Holiday Photo Event for Children with Autism
ELIZABETH,NJ (November 15, 2011) Considering approximately three to six children out of every 1,000 have been diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), it can be difficult for families of children with autism to enjoy some of the holiday celebrations and traditions most people take for granted, including simple things like sitting on Santa’s lap in a busy shopping mall.
That is why families touched by ASD are invited to Jersey Gardens on Sunday, NOVEMBER 20, 2011 from 9am-11am this season to celebrate Sensitive Santa®, an event that caters to children with autism and allows them to enjoy one of the holiday’s joyous memories - sitting on Santa’s lap. Pre-registration is required as space is limited. To register, parents can contact Crystal Stell, marketing director, at CStell@glimcher.com.
For the event, the Santa area will become “sensory friendly,” meaning the lights and music will be turned down, staff will be instructed to avoid loud, distracting movements, and the mall will be closed to shoppers. Jersey Gardens in partnership with Worldwide Photography will also provide each family that attends with a free 4 x 6 photo keepsake to commemorate the holiday season.
“We wanted to create an event that celebrates the spirit of the holiday season and brings a small, but memorable part of the holiday season to families with autism,” said Stell, Marketing Director, Jersey Gardens. “‘Sensitive Santa® will allow these children to experience the same enjoyment with Santa, but in a much calmer, less intimidating environment.”
Sensitive Santa®is part of Jersey Gardens’ “Magical Season of Giving.” Other “Magical Season of Giving” events include the March of Dimes Magical Mall Crawl, Shop for a Magical Cause fundraiser, Salvation Army Angel Tree, Elizabeth City-wide Toy Drive, and the Jingle Bell 5K Run benefitting St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.
Contact:
Crystal Stell
Jersey Gardens
cstell@glimcher.com
