Bad Weather Won't Stop Hazlet Police Special Needs Open House

HAZLET, NJ — A Special Needs Open House will take place Oct. 21 at Hazlet Police Station, 255 Middle Road, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The department assured residents the event is still on and will be indoors if there is bad weather as predicted.

"The Special Needs Open House is as much for children and adults with special needs as it is for their parents and caretakers," the department said.

The open house is way for a special needs child to meet police officers in a calm setting, especially for children who may be highly sensitive - and it may help them if officers ever have to come to their home for an emergency.

The event in free of charge and visitors can tour the police building, meet with officers and talk to police about ways to serve the special needs community.

The event will take place inside the Municipal Court if there is bad weather.

At the open house, families and those with special needs can meet with local agencies such as Monmouth County Special Needs Registry, POAC Autism Services, and Monmouth County Sheriff's Office's Project Life Saver.

Author Gerald (Jerry) Turning Jr , a retired police captain, wrote "Desperate Pursuits" and is founder of Blue Bridge Autism Training. He will share his personal experiences.

The township will also have attorney Tina M. James available to offer assistance in planning for a special needs child, to ensure they are taken care of in future.