Hammer in the News

In August, Hammer received a $10,000 grant from the Park Nicollet Foundation. The grant will be used to create a multi-sensory room at Emery, our second children’s home, which opened in April of this year.

Prior to opening Emery, staff members met with each child and their family members to discuss the children’s needs. It was clear that all the children need significant vestibular and sensory stimulation. This generous grant will be used toward funding numerous sensory room items including the purchase of a "Squeeze Machine" designed to help those who suffer from autism to overcome problems of oversensitivity to touch and allay nervousness.

"I love helping kids feel that they’re valued..."

Lisbeth Armstrong, Director of Program Services

With the opening of our new children’s homes, we are "going back to our roots" and serving children with disabilities such as autism. "Autism is now the most prevalent diagnosis for children with disabilities and can be very challenging for families," said Hammer’s Director of Program Services, Lisbeth Armstrong. "We want to be able to provide for this growing need." Children with disabilities often struggle with social compentencies and positive identities.

Creating a home environment that addresses their unique needs is crucial. We are passionate about providing the entire range of support necessary for each child to reach his/her full potential by meeting all their needs: physical, psychological, social, spiritual, education and recreational.