Since 2014, the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (NY-DD) has made changes to how people with DDs receive services, putting an emphasis on preparing them for “integrated employment” (e.g. custodian at an office building). This has caused the closure of “sheltered workshops” (places where the majority of employees have a DD). These workshops provide a familiarity and comfort for people with DD. Integrated employment doesn’t work for everyone, and certainly does not for my uncle. If not for sheltered workshops, he would not have been able to work. I support choice for people with DD. By signing this petition, you are voicing your support for the continuation of sheltered workshops in New York State.

Links for additional information:

https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2014/07/28/sheltered-workshops-disabled-phased-out/13302139/

http://www.uticaod.com/news/20170730/some-concerned-about-changes-to-sheltered-workshops

http://www.uticaod.com/news/20170731/job-opportunities-grow-for-developmentally-disabled