Columbia City, Ind. — Easterseals Northeast Indiana Columbia City has been awarded a $3,200 grant from the Community Foundation of Whitley County’s H.A.N.D.S. Foundation to enhance its sensory room.
About the H.A.N.D.S. Foundation
H.A.N.D.S. (Helping Achieve new Direction through Students) is a student-led group that meets monthly to discuss community needs, evaluate grant proposals, and fund projects with an educational purpose. It’s a collaboration among The Dekko Foundation, the Community Foundation of Whitley County, and the county’s three public school systems.
How the Sensory Room Will Help
The grant funds will support the purchase of sensory room equipment to benefit individuals with sensory processing challenges. Sensory rooms offer a calming, supportive space designed to help individuals self-regulate and reduce anxiety. They often include:
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Fiber optic lights for visual stimulation
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Sand or water tables for tactile engagement
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Aromatherapy elements
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Soft seating to create a comfortable environment
With these additions, Easterseals Northeast Indiana Columbia City aims to expand therapeutic services and promote emotional well-being through targeted sensory experiences.