POUGHKEEPSIE – Abilities First announces the final merger of Mid-Hudson Association for Persons with Disabilities (MHAPD) into its existing continuum of care. MHAPD programs include: Early Intervention Services for infants and toddlers with developmental delays or disabilities, and Family Support Services, which provides support and advocacy for families who have a member with special needs living at home, including financial reimbursement programs for goods and services related to the care of a family member with a developmental disability. All of these programs will continue through Abilities First.
MHAPD was founded in Poughkeepsie over 25 years ago by parents of children with developmental disabilities. The original mission of MHAPD aligns with that of Abilities First, which makes this partnership seamless.
“I strongly believe that the merger of the two organizations will improve the services we proudly and lovingly provide to persons with disabilities,” said Dr. Moujalli Hourani, President of the Board of Directors for MHAPD.
“We are pleased to finalize a great partnership that has developed over the past several years between Abilities First and MHAPD and has culminated with the completion of the merger of MHAPD into Abilities First on May 1, 2020. After decades of its own proud history of serving children and adults with disabilities in the Hudson Valley region, MHAPD now folds its programs and services into those offered by Abilities First. This includes Early Intervention Services for infants and toddlers, and various Family Support Services such as respite reimbursement. Together we will continue to meet the challenges faced by people with developmental challenges and their families. We welcome families and employees of MHAPD to the Abilities First family,” added Dr. Jeffery Fox, President and Chief Executive Officer of Abilities First.
About Abilities First
Founded in 1962, Abilities First is a nonprofit organization serving the needs of those with developmental disabilities from birth through adulthood. With more than 600 dedicated employees committed to providing educational, vocational, residential, habilitation and family support services, Abilities First gives individuals with disabilities and their families the support to attain independence, self-determination, integration and acceptance by others. In serving over 1,400 children and adults throughout the Hudson Valley region of New York State, Abilities First holds a long-term commitment to creating a cohesive culture of compassion, empowerment and respect for these individuals through education, exploration and experience. Abilities First is accredited for person-centered care by the Council on Quality and Leadership. For more information, visit www.abilitiesfirstny.org or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/abilitiesfirstinc
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