Planting Roots in the Community

Photo: State Senator Monica R. Martinez (first row center) stopped by a Life’s WORC residential home in Bay Shore to garden with residents and staff.

Everything came up roses this week when New York State Senator Monica R. Martinez joined residents and staff of a Life’s WORC residential home for spring gardening.  The Bay Shore location is one of 45 homes across New York City and Long Island offering supportive housing for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism.

April marks Autism Acceptance Month, dedicated to advancing understanding of autism spectrum disorder in society.  This month aims to raise awareness, challenge stereotypes, and advocate for the rights of individuals with autism to be valued members of their communities.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, an estimated 5.4 million American adults and 1 in 36 children have been diagnosed with autism.

Founded in 1971, Life’s WORC is a nonprofit organization that supports more than 2,000 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities including autism. The organization’s comprehensive services include Residential and Community Services, Day Habilitation, Supported Employment Services, Financial Support & Trust Services, and more.

Photo: Senator Martinez (right) and residents and staff of Life’s WORC’s Bay Shore residential home show off their green thumbs while beautifying the site with new plantings.

Photo: Residents and staff of a Life’s WORC residential home in Bay Shore are digging landscaping with Senator Martinez (left).