PHILADELPHIA (KYW Newsradio) — The ice skating rink at City Hall's Dilworth Park is open, but what about people with disabilities? In January, they'll be able to join in on the fun, too.
Special sleds made for people with disabilities will be available for rent at the ice rink at City Hall from January 4 through February 28.
"Someone can push them around the rink as if they're ice skating and give you that same experience as if you're on the ice with your friends. You're still doing it without actually having to put on ice skates," said City Representative Sheila Hess.
Paul Levy with the Center City District said the sled program was driven by a district staffer with a disabled son.
"They work not only for disabled kids, but for any young kid who's scared — or some adults — who are scared to be on the ice," he said.
Related
Not only do the sleds allow all kids to be able to participate in what she describes as a magical winter activity, Hess said it also creates an atmosphere of acceptance as kids of varying abilities are seen out on the ice.
"As a person myself with a disability, I can relate to all the children who always wanted to ice skate, to get that feel, to be out there with their friends, and just can't physically," she said. "It's really something that I find personally touching."
Sled rental reservations can be made by email.