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SYRACUSE, N.Y. — A new sensory room has opened at the New York State to give attendees a quiet, welcoming space during the event.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held on Aug. 25 to celebrate the opening of the Calming Sensory Room, which was created to help fairgoers who may benefit from a sensory-friendly environment.
The project was made possible through support from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation, in partnership with the New York State Fair, with Utica-based Kelberman providing input and expertise to make sure the space meets the sensory needs of visitors.
“Kelberman is incredibly proud to have played a role in helping bring this sensory room to life,” Selma Lupardo, director of development at Kelberman, said. “For individuals who may experience sensory overload, having a welcoming place to step away from the noise and activity can make the difference between simply attending an event and truly being able to enjoy and participate in it. We are grateful to the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation for recognizing this need and investing in greater accessibility and to the New York State Fair for embracing a space that helps ensure more individuals and families feel welcome here,” Lupardo said.
Kelberman added that its involvement in the project “reflects the organization’s ongoing commitment to creating communities where individuals of all abilities have opportunities to participate, connect and thrive. By sharing its experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Kelberman helped provide guidance and input as plans for the sensory room took shape.”
According to the New York State Fair’s website, the sensory room is open daily from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and is located inside the Creative Arts Center.
In addition, on Wednesday, Sept. 2, “Sensory Friendly Day features dimmed lights, sounds, music, and public announcements from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. across the entire Fairgrounds for those that are sensitive to noise,” according to the Fair’s website.
The Fair runs Aug. 26 to Sept. 7.