Rabbi Launches $6 Million Project for Inclusive Kids’ Park
UPDATE: Rabbi Yudy Shemtov is spearheading an ambitious project to create an inclusive recreational park for children with special needs, with plans to open by summer 2026. The facility, located on the site of the former Breezy Point Swim Club in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, aims to accommodate all children, regardless of their abilities.
Shemtov, senior rabbi of The Shul at Newtown, secured the 12-acre property for $729,000 in 2022, following a long history of family litigation. The rabbi has already raised over $1 million towards the park’s initial phase, which will feature a swimming pool, splash pad, and ball pit. However, the second phase, which includes walking trails, fitness stations, and pickleball courts, requires an additional $6 million in funding.
“This park is not just a dream; it’s a necessity,” Shemtov stated. He envisions a space where children with special needs can play alongside their peers in an environment designed for true accessibility. “Accessibility’s not an afterthought. It’s the core,” he emphasized.
The project was inspired by Shemtov’s observation during COVID: families were lacking outdoor facilities that catered to both children with special needs and those without. Most existing parks were either not accessible or specifically designed for one group. This new facility will bridge that gap, providing an inclusive space for all families.
Shemtov’s vision extends beyond recreational activities. He aims to collaborate with reputable organizations, including the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, to provide therapeutic services at the park. “We’re collaborating with CHOP and other institutions in the special needs and physical therapy community,” he explained.
The rabbi’s fundraising efforts are currently focused on foundations, donors, and state grants to secure the necessary funding for phase two. He is aware that the property is not zoned for all intended facilities yet and is working with Northampton Township to navigate these challenges.
Shemtov also plans to share his blueprint with other developers once the facility is established, promoting a new model of inclusivity. “This will expand the Friendship Circle to a completely different level,” he said, highlighting the potential for community education and integration.
As momentum builds, Shemtov remains optimistic about reaching his financial goals. “I know I need at least another $5-6 million,” he stated confidently. The inclusive park is set to become a vital resource for families, demonstrating that accessibility can be seamlessly integrated into community spaces.
With construction on the initial phase slated to begin soon, the community is rallying behind this transformative project. Families are eager for a place where children of all abilities can play and grow together, making Rabbi Shemtov’s vision a beacon of hope and inclusivity in the region.
Stay tuned for further updates as this inspiring project progresses.
