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 .

People Inc. Wins Statewide Housing Honors

Award honors innovation and excellence. The New York State Association for Affordable Housing honored People Inc. as the Non-Profit of the Year at a recent event in New York City. The award recognizes partners that have excelled in project completion, served their communities and special populations by going above and beyond, and have helped advance the industry over the past year. With over 30 properties offering 1,300 affordable housing units across the region, People Inc. continues to foster independence and improve lives. The dedicated staff help to provide safe, high-quality, affordable housing to people who are income eligible, often in underserved communities. Some of the units are reserved to support frail older adults, adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities and/or people with mobility, vision or hearing challenges. Our work goes beyond providing shelter — People Inc. is a leading provider of support services that help residents achieve stability and independence. These services include case management, mental health counseling, and transportation assistance. People Inc. staff ensure that residents are not only housed but are equipped with the resources they need to thrive. Additionally, People Inc. was recognized for its strong track record of providing a variety of unique residential opportunities for children, adults, and specialized homes for people with complex medical needs. Learn more about our Affordable and Senior Living Apartments.

Ombudsman Team Receives "Program of Excellence Award"

The Network in Aging of Western New York recognized program staff for their regional work by naming them the "Program of Excellence". For more than 13,000 older adults and people living with disabilities in Western New York’s long-term care facilities, the Region 15 NYS Ombudsman Program , administered through People Inc., serves as a crucial lifeline. Its mission is to ensure residents’ rights are upheld, offering much-needed advocacy, education and means of empowerment. “We are the voice of the voiceless,” says Susan Fenster, the program director for Region 15. “Many residents in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and adult care homes are among the most vulnerable in our community. They often don’t have family or friends who can advocate on their behalf. That’s where we come in—we make sure their rights are protected.” The program covers 118 long-term care facilities across Erie, Niagara, Chautauqua, and Cattaraugus counties, providing support to residents who may otherwise go unheard. Since 2016, People Inc. has hosted the program for Region 15, managing it through a state grant. Volunteers are at the core of this work. Supported by a small staff, these trained individuals dedicate themselves to helping residents by listening to their concerns, investigating issues, and working to resolve complaints. In 2024 alone, Region 15’s volunteers donated more than 4,200 hours to advocating for a better quality of life for residents. Ultimately, the Ombudsman Program is about empowering older adults and people with disabilities to understand and exercise their rights, ensuring they receive quality care in an environment that respects their dignity.

Sandie Brown-Maynard Named a Black Achiever

Sandie Brown-Maynard, People Inc. Clinical Associate Vice President,  was honored as one of the 2024 Black Achievers Award winners.

Bradford Watts Named to Powerful Business Leaders of Color List

Bradford Watts, People Inc. Associate Vice President - Community Relations & DEI, was named one of the top 100 Powerful Business Leaders of Color by Buffalo Business First..