$400K Grant from the Taft Foundation Makes Renovation Possible
NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi hosted on October 26th the grand opening of a beautiful new play yard adjacent to its pediatric outpatient clinic. The opening represents the transformation of 7,000 square feet of vacant space into a fun and exciting play area for children and their parents as they await their appointments. The renovation was possible through the generous assistance of The Taft Foundation, which provided $400,000 to NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi to serve Bronx children.
Two years ago, providers at NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi approached The Taft Foundation about assisting in transforming the vacant outdoor space so it could better serve patients at the facility. As the Bronx continues to grapple with high rates of obesity and diabetes, exercise and healthy habits are critically important to reinforce. Medical providers envisioned this area, located a few feet away from the hospital’s pediatric outpatient clinic, as a place where children could exercise and enjoy themselves while waiting to see their doctor.
Features include a large pirate ship complete with nautical accessories, such as waves, rideable dolphins, and sea turtles. Nautical-themed musical elements include a xylophone stingray and pylons that form drums. The set itself was developed by Studio DB and Vomar Construction.
“This investment in our facility represents the perfect public-private partnership for our patients,” said Chris Mastromano, chief executive officer of NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi. “We can’t thank The Taft Foundation enough for their generous contribution. It is already putting big smiles on the faces of our smallest patients.”
“This playground equipment is not only great fun, but it can help medical providers reinforce the importance of exercise and physical activity for our pediatric patients,” said Dr. William Caspe, chairman of the hospital’s Pediatrics Department. “The Taft Foundation’s investment in our playground facility helps us do exactly that.”
“NYC Health + Hospitals/Jacobi offers essential health care to thousands of New Yorkers, and The Taft Foundation is thrilled that the overall family experience is now significantly enhanced with the addition of this exciting and creative outdoor play space, bringing children joy and having a positive impact on their health and wellness,” said Nina Bershadker, executive director of The Taft Foundation.
Those interested in making an appointment at the pediatric outpatient clinic should call 718-918-5000.
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