The Arc Westchester on the Front Lines Supporting People with Disabilities

Like many nonprofits throughout Westchester County, The Arc Westchester is experiencing one of the most difficult times in its 70-year history. The organization’s staff are front line personnel, especially its Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), and are similar to hospital staff as essential employees whose passion for caring and nurturing people with developmental disabilities is priority over keeping themselves safe at home.

Despite the daily demands placed upon them in caring for the 245 residents sheltering in place in 44 homes, DSPs are still finding ways to support the larger community during this crisis. At the Scotts Place residence, a DSP spearheaded a facemask project and, to-date, staff and individuals have created more than 100 masks that have been sent to various locations throughout the agency as well as to Caritas of Port Chester, a local soup kitchen and food pantry. And, across the organization DSPs not working in the residences are coordinating the delivery of vital supplies such as Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to all of the homes as well as organizing remote activities.

About The Arc Westchester Foundation

The Arc Westchester Foundation’s mission is to increase public awareness and to raise financial support from the community, generating income through long-term investments, and making contributions to support services for people with developmental disabilities served by The Arc Westchester.

Visit www.arcwestchester.org. The Arc Westchester is a chapter of The Arc USA and The Arc New York.