The Hispanic Directors Association of New Jersey (HDANJ) has announced the award of $225,000 in grants to eight Latino organizations throughout the state for the purpose of identifying and referring children up to 6 years of age with learning disabilities so they may receive proper treatment at an early age before they start school. These funds are part of a grant received from the Division of Family Development in the Department of Human Services.

"If these children are to lead healthy and productive lives, early identification and referral are essential," said Anna "Cuqui" Rivera, HDANJ outreach manager. "Traditionally, the Latino special needs children have been underserved. We hope that hundreds of young children will receive necessary treatment as a result of our outreach efforts."

According to a press release, in the first year of the program 480 children were referred for treatment and the workshops sponsored by Latino organizations attracted more than 2,000 participants.

The Hispanic Affairs and Resource Center of Monmouth County was awarded $25,000. Its program will operate in Asbury Park, Red Bank and Freehold. The agency number is (732) 774-3282.

This year's goal (2006-07) is to identify at least 450 families across New Jersey with young children who are suffering from a variety of developmental problems or disabilities and refer them to early intervention programs, and Child Find school services, as well as health care and other facilities, according to the press release.

A toll free bilingual information line - 1-866-PRO-KIDS is available for parents to call to contact the appropriate agency if they suspect their child is struggling with a learning disability or other challenge.