DUTCHESS COUNTY HOSTING PUBLIC FORUM TO DISCUSS SERVICES NEEDED FOR THOSE WITH INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES
The Dutchess County Department of Behavioral & Community Health (DBCH) will hold a public forum on Tuesday, March 10, from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. to discuss services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Dutchess County. The forum will be held in the DBCH training room at 230 North Road in Poughkeepsie. All input received at the forum will help shape the County’s 2021 Local Services Plan for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. Families and caregivers are especially encouraged to attend.
Dutchess County Executive Marc Molinaro said, “We want to hear from our residents. In this county, we listen, we care, and we adapt. While Dutchess County continues to lead the way in our efforts to ‘think differently’ and maintains some of the best mental health services in the country, there is always room for improvement. We truly want this feedback so we can understand what services work well, learn more about the challenges people face, and address where there may be shortcomings.”
A. K. Vaidian, MD, MPH, Commissioner of the Dutchess County Department of Behavioral & Community Health (DBCH) said, “Public input and participation in our forums is critical. This forum and others like it offer an excellent opportunity to speak directly with the people who plan our services and can advocate for improvements.”
In addition to offering time for public comments, the forum will review eligibility requirements for the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), a review of the application process, procedures for connecting to services, and the County’s 24/7 mental health crisis services. Representatives from various service providers and partner agencies will also be available for questions.
For those unable to attend, or who do not feel comfortable speaking in public, DBCH welcomes written comments to be read aloud by the forum moderator. Individuals may submit comments online, fax comments to (845) 486-2829, or mail to: Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Forum, 230 North Rd, Poughkeepsie, NY 12601.
This event is sponsored by the Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Subcommittee of the Dutchess County Mental Hygiene Board. For more information, please call (845) 486-2766.
