What is the Hub?
The Hub is a school-based youth services program managed by Family Connections, Inc. and funded by New Jersey Department of Children and Families. 11 years ago, Family Connections was invited to be a partner with the South Orange –Maplewood School District to create The Hub to provide a variety of services at Maplewood Middle School including therapeutic recreation, academic support, counseling, and enrichment activities.
Family Connections is a non-profit agency based in Essex County with more than 30 specialized programs for all ages from infants to seniors.
Enrichment Activities include groups ( Chat ‘n Chew lunch program, mentor group, and empowerment groups), field trips (e.g., Rebounderz of Edison, bowling, rock climbing, movies, etc), events (e.g., Black History Month activities, Multicultural Dinner, Costume Party, etc) recreation (e.g., video games, basketball, board games), and clubs (arts and crafts club and intramural basketball).
How much does it cost?
It’s FREE! The NJ Department of Families and Children provides an annual grant to pay for all supplies and activities.
How do I enroll my child in The Hub?
All you have to do is sign a consent form and your child can participate in all activities. Consent forms is here: Hub Consent Form
When is it open?
The Hub is open 9:30am to 5:30pm during regular school days and 12:30-3pm during half days. We are open during Spring Break from 12pm to 3pm unless we have a field trip.
What does non-custodial supervision mean?
All services at The Hub are voluntary and students chose to participate in our programs and services. They may choose to get something to eat in the Village, but we strongly encourage them to come back to The Hub by 4pm. We keep daily attendance and supervise them closely while in the program, but we are not able to monitor where the students go prior to or after leaving The Hub.
Who works at The Hub?
