Long Branch's Disabilities Resource Fair Will Be May 16

LONG BRANCH, NJ — The city of Long Branch's "Spring Into Action" disability resource fair returns May 16.

Now in its fourth year, the fair is a place to find vital resources for special-needs children, adults and their families. There will also be live entertainment, art, food and family-friendly activities.

It will be from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 16 at the Long Branch Senior Center (85 Second Ave.), rain or shine.

As always, the event is FREE, open to the public and has something for everyone! Some highlights that attendees can enjoy:

• FREE lunch from the No Limits Café food truck
• Complimentary ice cream treats
• A Touch-A-Truck experience with the Long Branch Volunteer Fire Department
• Giant lawn games hosted by the Monmouth County Park System
• Interactive activities and giveaways from participating vendors
• A collaborative community art project hosted by the Long Branch Arts & Cultural Center. The completed community art piece will later be displayed in the windows of the Arts & Cultural Center at 577 Broadway.

This year, the fair will have almost 60 organizations, agencies and service providers from throughout Monmouth County and across New Jersey, offering information, guidance and support services for individuals and families. Resources will include healthcare services, behavioral and mental health support, recovery programs, financial planning, transportation assistance, educational opportunities, employment and vocational services, peer support, speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, recreational programs, summer camps, voter information and much more.

This year’s event will also feature live music from Shorty Long & The Jersey Horns, known for high-energy performances blending soul, funk, jazz, and classic rhythm & blues favorites. Leading the band on piano and vocals is Rick “Shorty Long” Tisch, who has a disability himself.

“It’s been a tremendous collaboration that continues to grow every year,” said Long Branch Mayor John Pallone. “Spring Into Action brings critical resources directly to our community while creating a fun, welcoming event for families of all ages and abilities. We can’t wait to see everyone there.”

The fair is held by the city of Long Branch, in partnership with MOCEANS Center for Independent Living and the Long Branch Disability Caucus.