Residential

Everyone needs a place to call home. And, like all of us, people with developmental disabilities want and deserve safe, comfortable homes where they can enjoy independence and be part of their communities.

Decades ago, the YAI Network assumed a leadership role in closing institutions where people with disabilities were isolated and abused. The Network created group residences and supported living arrangements, giving people the chance to live independently while receiving the services they need. Today, hundreds of people with developmental disabilities live in beautiful, comfortable YAI Network residences that they are proud and happy to call home.

However, many others have been denied this opportunity due to the sky-rocketing cost and shortage of appropriate housing. Currently, there are more than 2,000 New Yorkers with developmental disabilities on our residential wait list. More than one-third are over the age of 40 and living with aging caretakers. They are in desperate need of homes, as their elderly parents pass away or become too frail to care for their adult children.

In order to meet the growing need for housing for people with developmental disabilities, the YAI Network is committed to creating a significant number of new residences and renovating many of our existing homes to make them appropriate and accessible for older and medically frail residents.

This is a costly and demanding undertaking. Each residence must meet strict safety standards and must be staffed by highly trained and experienced personnel, who provide comprehensive services and support.  Homes must be located in safe, secure neighborhoods where residents can access community resources to thrive and reach their full potential.

Despite the high cost and many challenges, the YAI Network is committed to opening new residences for people with developmental disabilities to call their own for the rest of their lives, and to bring their families peace of mind.