The new playground located at Broad Street Court
After a few years in the making, along with much generosity and determination from groups and individuals of the community, the Cape May Housing Authority opened its brand new pavilion and playground for its residents.
A ribbon-cutting ceremony held on October 29th, 2024 celebrated this new addition to the courtyard with open arms and clapping hands. We heard from integral partners of the project like the Cape May Housing Authority and Cape May Cares Chairperson Dr. Keith Lafferty, whose optimistic vision and innate drive to better the community charged the operation.
Keith Lafferty speaking at the opening ceremony
“Necessity is the mother of invention. The thirty families there needed a playground and they conveyed that to us. This allows a place for play and creates a platform for kids to learn social skills on the playground. Empathy, cooperation, and friendship development boost self confidence and help them overcome obstacles,” Keith shared with us. “We all rise by lifting others” — a mantra that speaks truest to the motivations of those who helped this project come to life.
Zack Mullock speaking, Curtis Bashaw presents donation for Cape May Cares
Mayor Zack Mullock came to show his support and offer some uplifting words, including a felicitous quote from Albert Einstein, saying “The best research is play.”
Cape May Housing Authority supplied the playground, and The Fund for Cape May is largely responsible for the pavilion. Curtis Bashaw, Chair of The Fund for Cape May, shared not only words at the event but a check for $2,500 which he donated to Cape May Cares on site. We also heard from The Fund for Cape May’s vice-chair Tom Carroll.
Before and after photos of the courtyard
Dekon Fashaw spoke on behalf of the Cape May Police Department and reflected on the old playground that stood in the same place. He described its previous poor condition, how it was in despair and eventually torn down. His excitement about the ground’s transformation as an entertaining and positive space for children was a contagious sentiment.
Left: Cathy & Keith Lafferty, Jackie Jones, Claudia Von Savage Right: the new pavilion
Claudia Von Savage, Vice-Chair of the non-profit organization Cape May Cares, shared some words with us about the event: “This long-awaited project, which created a brand-new play area and gathering spot for the children and families of Broad Street Court, was made possible through the incredible partnership of Cape May Cares, the Cape May Housing Authority, The Fund For Cape May, and many local business members and donors.”
Claudia continued, “Reverend HeyYoung Horton of Cape May’s United Methodist Church gave the invocation. County Commissioners Melanie Collette and Bob Barr assisted in the ribbon-cutting. Jessica Hoskins, mother of four and Broad Street Court resident, expressed her gratitude to Cape May Cares and everyone present for making this dream come true for the children and families.”
Keith Lafferty and Claudia Von Savage cut the ribbon
The residents of the housing authority now have a prosperous space for play, communal gatherings, and relaxation right in their backyard. This ceremony marked another step forward for Cape May, demonstrating how teamwork and compassion are fundamental to any community. For more information on Cape May Cares or how to get involved visit CapeMayCares.org.
