Major Improvements to Foundling Home for People with Disabilities

January 17, 2025 (Brooklyn, New York)—On Friday, State Senator Julia Salazar presented the New York Foundling with a half-million dollars in new funding she recently secured in Albany to extensively renovate a group home for people with developmental disabilities. The row house at 8 Schenck Court in Cypress Hills will receive comprehensive upgrades to its safety and security systems, new HVAC as well as renovations to bathrooms, bedrooms and its communal kitchen.

The Senator presented The Foundling and residents with a check for the project at a tour on Friday morning.

Five residents live at 8 Schenck Court, where they receive on-site support that helps them live independently, secure employment and connect with “day-hab” programs, health care and services. Small sites like this foster residents’ independence and growth with tailored services that meet their individual needs.

“We are so grateful to State Senator Salazar for securing funding that will make a huge difference in the lives of our residents. These renovations will make this home safer, more comfortable and more beautiful—and our residents deserve nothing less. Working together, we can help people with developmental disabilities to reach their full potential,” said New York Foundling CEO Melanie Hartzog.

“When we truly commit to serving the public, we are endeavoring to transform our collective understanding of care. NY Foundling's past and ongoing work persists as an enduring model not only of compassion, but also the immense therapeutic value of a wholly person-centered approach that considers both the long-term and shifting support needs of developmentally disabled New Yorkers,” said State Senator Julia Salazar. “I’m honored to present this check to the leadership and staff of NY Foundling with the knowledge that the forthcoming structural improvements at 8 Schenck Court will engender further self-determination and satisfaction in the lives of our fellow community members."

The planned work to enhance 8 Schenck Court includes:

• New sprinklers
• New fire alarm system
• New air conditioning system
• Boiler replacement
• Newly redesigned communal kitchen
• Remodeled and upgraded bedrooms and bathrooms
• New flooring, doors, windows and repainting
• Front and rear façade restoration
• Replacement of backyard fencing

The Foundling provides support for people with developmental disabilities throughout the New York metropolitan area, reaching more than 1,000 adults and children every year. Adults with developmental disabilities often have many overlapping support and health needs, and The Foundling provides comprehensive services and programs that strengthen their foundations as they work to meet their personal goals.

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