Miracle League of Horsham Receives $1M Check For Field

HORSHAM TOWNSHIP, PA —It was no April Fool's Day joke.

The ceremonial check, in the form of a $1 million grant, was for real.

State Rep. Melissa Cerrato, who represents the 151st Legislative District, came bearing gifts at the Miracle Field of Horsham’s Opening Day 5K Saturday.

Cerrato and Correne Kristiansen, chief of staff for Sen. Maria Collett, presented the organization with a ceremonial $1 million check toward land development at Deep Meadow Park.

That land will be transformed into a “Miracle League” field with accessible bullpens and other innovative features that accommodate wheelchairs and other assistive devices while helping to prevent injuries, officials said.

“Bringing a state-of-the-art Miracle League field to Horsham will send a loud and clear message to local individuals with disabilities and the people who love and care for them,” Collett said. "It will say 'we see you,’ 'you matter’ and 'you are welcome here.’ I’m hopeful that at next year’s Opening Day event, we’ll be playing ball!”

Cerrato said the Miracle Field will ensure that individuals of all ages and abilities can enjoy the fun and camaraderie of Little League while creating a sense of belonging and comfort.

"I’m thrilled that, as one of my first acts in office, I was able to help deliver this funding on such a worthy endeavor,” said Cerrato, who took office on Jan. 1.

Miracle Field of Horsham Board President William Slaymaker said he was "overwhelmed with the way the Horsham community has embraced this project since day one."

He said the funds will ensure that the project is completed and that baseball will be accessible for players of all abilities in Horsham.

The Miracle League is a national nonprofit with more than 300 local affiliates across North America whose mission is to bring the joy of baseball/softball to individuals with mental and physical disabilities.