Westchester Disabled on the Move Holds Annual Meeting to Celebrate People with Disabilities

Hartsdale NY - July 30, 2026 - Groups representing people with disabilities and elected officials gathered for Westchester Disabled On the Move Inc.'s (WDOM) annual event to celebrate its work and share the latest news on policy changes that will impact people with disabilities.

Maria Samuels, Executive Director of Westchester Disabled on the Move, told the audience of about 75 people who attended the event at Ridge Road Park in Hartsdale that the agency was ready to help consumers manage a new wave of requirements for Medicaid and other benefits as a result of the federal government's passage of HR1, the Big Beautiful Bill, last year.

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Medicaid enrollment requirements will change starting in January of 2027. Some of these include reenrolling twice a year instead of once and new, more stringent work requirements. Westchester Disabled on the Move is one of the key agencies offering public assistance with Medicaid reenrollment.

Elected officials including Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins, New York State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart Cousins and Assemblymember Dana Levenberg, spoke about how all levels of government, including Governor Kathy Hochul's office, were working together to support the disability community as they cope with cuts to programs and services.

Westchester Parks Foundation also demonstrated All-Terrain Track chairs used in its adaptive hiking program for people with physical limitations.

The day included games, prizes and refreshments donated by DeCicco's & Sons Markets, Bona Bona Ice Cream and music provided DJ Rhythem.

Other officials attending the event were Shari Rosen Ascher,Director of Policy & Programs, Small Business and Chambers of Commerce, Westchester County; Karen Horowitz Director, Westchester County Office for People with Disabilities; local advocacy groups for people with disabilities; and Lillian Padilla and Morgan Slocombe, representing Governor Hochul's Office.

About WDOM

WDOM helps people with disabilities, the elderly, and low-income families live independent lives by providing them with access to healthcare, housing, and other assistance through social programs.