The Smokey Hollow Project are a group of parents of adults with I/DD and are worried about the future of our children because housing options in NY are scarce. What will happen to them when we can no longer care for them?
The group took matters into their own hands and have been working to create an intentional community. They are motivated, not only to help our loved ones, but to create a model that will serve to help provide housing for many people with I/DD across the state.
OPWDD’s long-standing policies stood in the way of the development of this innovative housing. The Smokey Hollow Project have been advocating for change and just within the last few days have seen two very exciting developments.
The first came from OPWDD. They reversed course and removed their 25% rule. This was an arbitrary figure, restricting the number of units in a building with a resident receiving an OPWDD Housing Subsidy to no more than 25%. This allows more housing options, including staff sharing, for adults with disabilities, especially those with 24/7 support needs.
Also, and even more importantly, on March 7, legislation to enable the creation of innovative supportive housing programs in New York, was sponsored by Assembly Member Tom Abinanti, co-sponsored by Assemblymember Al Stirpe as Bill 9492. On March 8, the Senate version of the bill, S8521, was sponsored by Senator John Mannion.
Now our representatives need to hear from us! As many of us as possible. Will you help us get word out and help ensure that this bill becomes law?
Just click on these links:
https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2021/s8521?intent=support
https://www.nysenate.gov/legislation/bills/2021/A9492
Click here for more information