Program Gives Special Needs Children A Trip To Disney World
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) – On Tuesday a group of special needs children had the time of their lives. They got the chance to go on a day-long excursion to Disney World, a dream trip that began in New Jersey -- and they got there on a chartered jet.
It was all apart of Operation Dream Lift, a program for special-needs children organized by the Sunshine Foundation.
New Jersey State Troopers were on hand helping out and even carried those who cannot walk, onto the plane.
"They're disadvantaged kids, they're children with disabilities, children with handicaps, we give them back a day so that they can have a special moment in their lives. Something that they can, you know, treasure for the rest of their life" said Lt. Col Steve Shallop.
More than 100 children and their families were able to spend the whole day at Disney World, where they'll return home tonight.
"This is a dream come true. I myself have never been to Disney, but more importantly it's about my son, who gets to go to Disney for the first time," said Robert Curci, a father.
"He's excited about it, it's a time for him to get away and enjoy himself," said Webster Hemby, a great-grandfather.
A pre-boarding party was held at the Mercer County Airport, and a cast of Disney characters were on hand to greet the children.
After the party, it was time to walk out onto the tarmac and board the plane with the Phillie Phanatic leading the way!
"Everybody comes together as a community, helping these kids enjoy a bright day," Shallop said.