Mariam's Cafe Blue Brunch For Special Needs Kids Coming To Farmingdale: 'We're So Excited'

FARMINGDALE, NY — The third annual Mariam's Cafe Blue Brunch is scheduled for 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Sunday at No Limit Ninja and Farmingdale Gymnastics Academy, at 121 Carolyn Blvd., Farmingdale.

The brunch, hosted by a nonprofit of the same name, looks to provide a safe space and fun environment to special needs children and their families. However, anyone 18 months or older is welcome at the event. There is an entry donation of $5 per person.

The event will feature complimentary brunch, drinks and fun. Activities include the Ninja Warrior course, Tumble Trak, foam pits, and swings.

Sameh and Mariam Ahmed, who run the nonprofit, said they are excited to see more people getting involved. They are expecting more than 150 attendees on Sunday.

"We are so humble for the growing of the initiative to arrange gatherings to bring kids with special needs, their families, and professional community support to safe, comfortable place for gatherings," Sameh Ahmed told Patch. "These kind of gatherings are very important to get the right help and support for special needs kids."

The Ahmeds own Mariam's Cafe, a halal fusion eatery at 1005 Fulton Street, Farmingdale. Their son being on the autism spectrum inspired them to start the nonprofit.

"We know the hardship of raising a special needs kid and getting all the help our son needs," Sameh said. "We definitely know the tremendous difference when you meet with other parents and share the experiences to raise those amazing special kids."

Food for the upcoming Blue Brunch will be provided by Mariam's Cafe and Bellagio Pizza, while the activities are offered by No Limit Ninja and Farmingdale Gymnastics Academy.

Mariam's Cafe serves Moroccan, Middle Eastern, Italian, Spanish and American cuisines.

The cafe is open Wednesday through Sunday: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and noon to 8 p.m. Sunday.