Artist Colleen Galloway to Display Paintings in People Inc.’s ArtsWork Gallery Exhibit

People Inc.’s art gallery will open “ArtsWork Gallery Presents: Paintings by Colleen Galloway” a new exhibition showcasing paintings by ArtsWork artist Colleen Galloway.

People Inc. Seeks to Develop Portion of Former DeGraff Hospital in North Tonawanda

People Inc. plans to purchase and redevelop the long-vacant inpatient bed tower of the former DeGraff Memorial Hospital in North Tonawanda. The proposal would transform this portion of the property into a vibrant, mixed-use facility with senior housing, an employee training center, and a day habilitation program for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

People Inc. and Habitat for Humanity Partner To Provide Accessible Home in Youngstown

People Inc. is partnering with Niagara Area Habitat for Humanity to build an accessible, single-family home in the Village of Youngstown. This innovative collaboration addresses a critical need for affordable, accessible home ownership in Western New York.

Kris Trent Named CFO at People Inc.

After an extensive search, People Inc. will welcome Kris Trent, CPA, as its new Chief Financial Officer, effective August 18.

Militello Promoted to Chief Program Officer

Maralyn Militello, MPA, BSN, RN, CPHQ, NEA-BC, who has been serving as senior vice president for clinical services and quality improvement, has been promoted to Chief Program Officer (CPO).

Grant Allows for Life-Saving Equipment, Training At Programs for People with Disabilities

State Funds Secured Through Assemblymember McMahon People Inc. will equip each of its 155 group homes, 25 day programs and 20 respite locations with new, state-of-the-art devices designed to assist in the event of a choking incident. The initiative is possible thanks to a $25,000 grant sponsored by N.Y. State Assemblymember Karen McMahon. All program staff will undergo training to use the portable device, called LifeVac®. It is common for people with developmental or intellectual disabilities to have anatomical and physiological characteristics that put them at high risk for choking and/or aspiration. Some have poor or underdeveloped oral motor skills that cause issues with chewing and swallowing, while others have decreased airway reflexes. “In our efforts to focus on the absolute best care for people we serve, we did an assessment of health needs across our program sites,” said Anne McCaffrey, President and CEO. “Choking is a well-known risk among our population, and while our team is highly trained to help prevent incidents, we are committed to continuously enhancing our services by offering cutting-edge solutions that help people overcome obstacles. The LifeVac is a fast, effective anti-choking tool, and with Assembly Member McMahon’s help, we have added that extra safety assurance.” The LifeVac is a portable, non-invasive suction device created to assist in choking emergencies. It is meant to be used when all other standard protocols are exhausted. The plunger-like device has a mask that is placed on the face of a person experiencing an airway obstruction and can quickly alleviate the blockage. According to the manufacturer, LifeVac has helped save thousands of lives. Assemblymember McMahon said: “The work being done by the caregivers at People Inc. facilities is extraordinary and vital to providing a safe quality of life to those they serve. I was honored to secure $25,000 for the purchase of LifeVac home kits which may provide life-saving care in the event of a choking emergency. These devices can make all the difference when seconds count during such an emergency. While we hope these devices don't have to be used, we are reassured that the skilled professionals at People Inc. will have them available if needed." The grant will be administered through the New York State Department of Health. For more information on the LifeVac, see LifeVac.net .