December 21 2018: People Inc. is proud to announce that it has received a grant from James H. Cummings Foundation. The award, totaling $25,000, will be used to construct transitional housing for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) looking to move from family or group home settings into community living.

The project, called On My Way! @ Wayside, will provide a transitional residence for individuals with I/DD to live for three to nine months. During this time, they will develop independent living skills through hands-on learning. Three fully-functioning training apartments will be created along with a large common space for group instruction in cooking, cleaning and laundry.

“As the Board considered this project, what really impressed them was the forward thinking of People, Inc.  This project will prepare individuals with developmental disabilities who have the capacity to live independently the opportunity to practice and gain confidence in living on their own. It is a unique service for these individuals and their families,” shared Executive Director Mary Jo Hunt.

As Medicaid undergoes redesign, resources for those with I/DD are becoming more difficult to secure. Young people are expected to live independently and find employment, yet many do not have the living skills needed to prepare them for these realities. “With generous support from James H. Cummings Foundation, People Inc. looks forward to paving the way for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities to live independently,” said Concetta Ferguson, senior vice president, People Inc. “Thanks to their contribution, On My Way! @ Wayside will provide people with intellectual and developmental disabilities the supports needed to participate and succeed in an accepting society.”

James H. Cummings Foundation was established to support the philanthropic vision of its namesake. Throughout its 52-year history, the Foundation has aided countless organizations engaged in advancing charitable interests according to the guidelines and policies espoused by Mr. Cummings.

People Inc., a multispecialty non-profit health and human services agency, provides programs and services to more than 12,000 people with developmental disabilities, special needs, their families and older adults throughout Western New York and the Greater Rochester region. Since 1970, People Inc. has assisted individuals to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity. With nearly 4,000 employees, People Inc. is one of the region’s largest employers. To learn more, visit people-inc.org, follow People Inc. on Facebook or Twitter @PeopleIncNews.