Port Discovery Announces New Partnership to Expand Services for Families with Disabilities

Port Discovery Children’s Museum is proud to be an accessible venue for children and families of any income, need, or ability. To that end, Port Discovery is excited to announce a partnership with Laila’s Gift, a non-profit that is committed to advocating for, supporting, and celebrating the birthdays and significant milestones of children with special needs and disabilities while shedding light on the challenges faced by their caregivers.

Beginning in June 2023, Port Discovery will be the host site for monthly Laila’s Gift complimentary birthday parties and celebrations for children with special needs and disabilities. Port Discovery and Laila’s Gift will prepare handcrafted party packages that will take place in the Museum’s newly renovated celebration rooms. Each party is complementary for selected families and will include tailored activities and access to Museum exhibits.

Port Discovery and Laila’s Gift share the value that each child deserves to be celebrated – both for their birthday or any meaningful milestone in their lifelong journey. By supporting families who are dealing with challenges that come with raising a child (or children) with special needs, we raise the bar for a more inclusive community.

This partnership expands Port Discovery’s ongoing offerings for families with special needs, which includes monthly Sensory Friendly Sundays, sensory resource kits (available every day for any Museum guest), as well as Universal Design activities available to student groups who visit on a field trip.

The partnership with Laila’s Gift is being piloted throughout the summer, with the aim to garner long-term funding to continue offering birthday parties and celebration packages throughout the year.