SENATOR JOHN W. MANNION SECURES $200,000 FOR ACCESSCNY TO LAUNCH NEW CHILDREN’S MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING SERVICES AND UPGRADE HOMES FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES

SYRACUSE, NY –Senator John W. Mannion, Chairman of the Disabilities Committee, today awarded two grants totaling $200,000 to AccessCNY new children’s mental health counseling services  and needed upgrades at homes it operates for people with disabilities - including generator installations to serve the medical needs of older residents.

Senator John W. Mannion said, “This funding directly addresses critical needs in our community to properly support the health and wellness of people with disabilities of all ages. The mental health of children with disabilities or dual diagnosis is often overlooked, and this will bring a compliment of new services online. AccessCNY is also installing generators at many of the residences it operates to meet the medical needs of older residents and allowing them to safely age at home.”

The two grants will fund: 

• $100,000 Children’s social work counseling to support the mental health needs of children with disabilities or dual diagnosis. 

• $100,000 to install backup generators at AccessCNY’s Individual Residential Alternatives (IRAs) to enhance safety and security for residents, particularly older individuals relying on medical equipment requiring reliable electricity. 

AccessCNY’s IRAs typically have 2-6 people and are the permanent homes for people with disabilities, some having been residents for decades. As these individuals have aged in place their needs have changed. More and more individuals are medically frail and rely on oxygen and other electronic medical supports. Adding generators will make the homes safer and ensure that as individuals with disabilities age they can remain in their homes and out of a nursing home.  

Paul Joslyn, AccessCNY Executive Director, said, “We are grateful for Senator Mannion’s continued support and advocacy for people with disabilities. The two recent grants facilitated by Senator Mannion build on his legacy of supporting people with disabilities, while in office and throughout his lifetime. The first $100,000 grant will return social work counseling to AccessCNY’s clinic. Across the country we are in a mental health crisis and these funds will provide support to people with disabilities who are struggling with their mental health. A second $100,000 grant will install generators at AccessCNY homes. More than 20 homes for people with disabilities are operated 24/7 by AccessCNY staff and support more than 100 people. Funding to provide backup power for these homes is critical to protecting the health and well-being of those served. People with disabilities are truly part of our community thanks to advocates like Senator Mannion.”

AccessCNY employs 1,400 people and serves over 2,400 individuals annually, offering a wide range of services to meet their unique needs. The grants from Senator Mannion will strengthen their vital work, empowering individuals with disabilities to reach their full potential with dignity and respect. 

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