Assemblyman Angelo Santabarbara announced 30 new housing opportunities that will be made available for people with developmental and intellectual disabilities in the Capital Region and the Mohawk Valley.

More than $58 million in state funding was awarded to 53 provider agencies across the State, bringing 83 new homes, with 5 new locations in Santabarbara’s Assembly District in the Mohawk Valley and Capital Region. Local area provider agencies to receive funding include Liberty ARC in Amsterdam, Catholic Charities and the Center for Disability Services in the Capital Region, which will provide a total of 30 new housing opportunities.

“This announcement is another important step that helps us realize the goals of my Autism Action NY Plan in the State Assembly, offering those with disabilities more options and independence,” said Assemblyman Santabarbara. Autism Action NY is a comprehensive bill package authored by Assemblyman Santabarbara, who serves as chair of the State Assembly’s Sub-Committee on Autism Spectrum Disorders. Autism Action NY is a five-point plan aimed at increasing job opportunities; providing independent housing options for New Yorkers with developmental disabilities; improving access to information; assisting in communication; and, most importantly, creating a centralized location for services in New York.

“We are honored, at Liberty ARC, to be awarded this funding which allows us to offer an individualized residential opportunity for adults with disabilities whose aging caregivers are no longer able to meet their family member’s needs,” said Liberty ARC CEO Jennifer Saunders. “Liberty ARC will develop a duplex style home where those with disabilities can experience a life with independence in a safe, supportive environment. We are proud to offer a personalized housing option that affords a comfortable and familiar setting with friends that have similar interests and lifestyles.”

“There has been a significant lack of housing for individuals with development disabilities in upstate cities like Schenectady and Amsterdam, especially for those with autism,” said Assemblyman Santabarbara. “This funding can begin to make a difference – and it hits home for me,” said Santabarbara, whose 16-year-old son, Michael, was diagnosed with autism at age 3.