The COVID-19 pandemic has put us all in crisis mode. As an elected official, small business owner, husband and father, the challenges seem unending. However, as a parent of a child with special needs, the impact is beyond severe.
Since mid-March, individuals with Developmental Disabilities in New York State have experienced the suspension of crucial services and programs.
I am relieved that starting Friday, 6/19, Group Homes are permitted to accept visitors, reuniting parents with their children after three long months. I was also happy to see that Summer School Programs are scheduled to proceed for school-aged individuals with Developmental Disabilities. Hopefully, these encouraging signs will mean that other programs and services will return sooner rather than later.
As Chairperson of the Town Of Islip Disability Advisory Board, it has been moving to see how some service providers, such as the United Cerebral Palsy of Long Island, have risen to the COVID-19 crisis with creativity and care.
One example, is a delicious cooking demonstration video, with UCP of Long Island resident, Chef Michal! Please take a moment to watch the video and feel free to drop a comment below if you tried Chef Michal’s recipe for Spinach, Cheese, and Mushroom Quiche.
Follow the link to learn more about services and programs offered by the United Cerebral Palsy for individuals with Developmental Disabilities www.ucp-li.org.
Bon Appetit!
Town Councilman James O’Connor