Skoufis Announces $125K Grant for Independent Living Inc.

**PRESS RELEASE**
Skoufis Announces $125K Grant for Independent Living Inc.

Senator James Skoufis (D-Hudson Valley) announced that he secured a grant of $125,000 for Independent Living Inc. to purchase equipment and renovate the 5 Washington Terrace building. Skoufis has long been a partner and advocate for Independent Living Inc. and was able to secure this funding through the state Legislature. 

Senator Skoufis said, “I was proud to fight for this grant because I know that Independent Living Inc. provides so many people with unparalleled support and assistance, and this funding will help renovate and upgrade their space. When we invest in our programs and organizations that level the playing field for all New Yorkers, we open up opportunities for our communities to access indispensable resources; I won’t stop fighting to deliver respect and access for people with disabilities in our state."

Doug Hovey, President and CEO of Independent Living Inc. said, “On behalf of the board and staff of Independent Living, Inc., I am thrilled to receive this capital grant for $125,000, thanks to the efforts of our Senator, James Skoufis. This funding is needed to improve our facilities at our main location in Newburgh. Independent Living, Inc. provides services from this location that reach over 5,000 area residents each year helping them to become self-sufficient and lead better quality lives.”

Skoufis is committed to delivering access for people with disabilities. Skoufis was the former Chair of the Task Force on People with Disabilities in the Assembly and has been a driving force on disability issues in the Legislature. During this past legislative session, Skoufis introduced and passed bill S.1674 to create an office that will function as an advocate for the rights of people with disabilities in order to ensure they receive the services and support needed to make informed choices and decisions. Skoufis also introduced and passed bill S.1650, which will require, upon request, places of public accommodations to enable closed captioning on televisions in public areas. Both bills passed the full Legislature and await the Governor’s signature.

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