Grant To Help Zoo Make Visits Enjoyable For More Guests

BRIDGEPORT — Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is pleased to announce that Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of Connecticut and Western Massachusetts has pledged a $20,000 grant to the zoo. The money will be used to develop handicap accessible pathways in the zoo’s Picnic Grove and to purchase handicap accessible outdoor furniture for this area of the zoo’s grounds.

The work should be completed and the furniture installed by June, as the zoo prepares for an invitation-only “Dream Night” for children with special healthcare needs and disabilities. The furniture will remain as a permanent addition to the zoo’s offerings for all of its guests.

“Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is an ideal family destination for Connecticut residents and visitors,” said Zoo Director Gregg Dancho. “Now, thanks to Ronald McDonald House Charities, we can better accommodate all of our guests. We appreciate their support of our mission to provide a safe, friendly recreation facility for everyone to enjoy.”

“The zoo’s commitment to offering a celebration event for children with special healthcare needs and disabilities is wonderful,” said Lizabeth A. Haskos, president of RMHC of Connecticut and Western Massachusetts. “We are proud to help make the zoo more accessible for families with children of all abilities.”

Each fall, students at elementary schools throughout Connecticut and western Massachusetts participate in “Pennies for Change” and help children like themselves by collecting pennies for four weeks. All the money is donated to RMHC of Connecticut and Western Massachusetts and then returned to the local community through the charity’s grant making.

Since 1988 RMHC of Connecticut and Western Massachusetts has provided more than $4.2 million to over 250 nonprofit organizations, helping thousands of area children lead happier, healthier, and more productive lives. RMHC and its global network of local chapters in nearly 50 countries have awarded more than $440 million in grants and program services supporting children worldwide.

Connecticut’s Beardsley Zoo is open year-round and exhibits primarily North and South American animals, including many endangered and threatened species. Highlights include a Tropical Rainforest, New England Farmyard, Alligator Alley aviary, Carousel, and Victorian Greenhouse. It is  accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA).