[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 126 (Monday, August 3, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E764]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          HONORING THE MATHENY MEDICAL AND EDUCATIONAL CENTER

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. THOMAS H. KEAN, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, August 3, 2026

  Mr. KEAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 80th anniversary of 
Matheny Medical and Educational Center. For nearly a century, Matheny 
has provided outstanding support to individuals with unique 
disabilities and rare diseases from around the world, demonstrating the 
highest standards of comprehensive care and education.
  Founded in 1946 by Walter Duane Matheny and Mary Marguerite Hughes 
Matheny, Matheny began as the Burnt Mills School for Paralysis 
Correction, inspired by their son Chuck, who was born with cerebral 
palsy in an era ill-equipped to care for children with special needs. 
Starting with just three children and three staff members, the 
Matheny's received crucial support from the Somerset County community, 
whose local donations sustained their operation until Matheny became a 
non-profit school in 1950.
  Over the years, Matheny's commitment to excellence in care and 
research has transformed the organization. Today, Matheny employs more 
than 600 staff and provides vital services through a special hospital, 
seven community group homes, two adult day centers, a private special 
school for children ages 3 to 21, a fine arts program, recreation 
programs, and clinics offering dental, medical, and rehabilitative 
technology services.
  These extensive services fulfill Matheny's mission to ``provide 
exceptional care and an optimal quality of life for children and adults 
with special needs and medically complex developmental disabilities.'' 
As we celebrate this remarkable milestone, we express our sincere 
gratitude for Matheny's 80 years of service to Somerset County and the 
State of New Jersey. I wish them continued success in the years ahead.

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