Sea Cliff, New York – SCO Family of Services will be able to make some key renovations thanks to a grant secured by Assemblymember Charles Lavine (D-North Shore). The $125,000 capital grant will cover the cost of a new automated security gate and two therapeutic sensory rooms for the Robert J. McMahon Children’s Center in Sea Cliff. A frequent visitor to the center, Lavine was recently on the SCO campus in Sea Cliff to celebrate the organization’s 130^th birthday and to formally announce the grant. The gate will ease security concerns, as the current perimeter leaves the property exposed to nearby roads, outside hazards, and unauthorized access, creating serious concerns for children who may be prone to wandering. The renovated sensory rooms will feature new equipment, creating specialized environments designed to calm overwhelmed children and reduce behavioral crises.

Lavine said: “I am extremely pleased to be able to secure this grant, which will enable SCO’s Robert J. McMahon Children’s Center in Sea Cliff to provide students with improved resources for educational activities and staff with a greater sense of security. While I enjoy all my visits, this one was especially meaningful as this wonderful organization celebrates 130 years of providing children and adolescents with developmental disabilities the necessary tools to achieve success.”

SCO Family of Services President & CEO Suzette Gordon said: “We are deeply grateful to Assembly Member Chuck Lavine for his steadfast support of SCO Family of Services and the children we serve at the Robert J. McMahon Children’s Center. This generous grant will help us continue providing a safe, nurturing, and therapeutic environment for children with complex developmental and medical needs. We are honored to partner with him to ensure our children receive the specialized care, education, and opportunities they deserve to thrive.”