We applied for a group home for my 31-year-old sister with intellectual disability 3 years ago and OPWDD just told us the waitlist is now 5+ years in our county. She's aging out of our parents' house and they're desperate. Are there private supported housing programs, day services for people with intellectual disabilities in NY that don't have insane waiting periods? We're willing to pay something if the quality is decent. Any recommendations in Long Island or Queens area?
That wait time sounds unbelievably stressful, especially with your parents needing a realistic plan now. A family I know on Long Island faced something similar and started calling private agencies directly while staying on the OPWDD list. They asked about supported apartments, respite, day habilitation, pricing, transportation, and staffing before touring. Their experience with alcohol rehab was useful because staff explained available options without making big promises. I’d also contact Queens and Nassau care coordinators, since openings can change quickly.