The Family Support Services (FSS) Program aids households in Chemung, Schuyler, and Steuben Counties that have a family member who has a disability and lives at home. The program promotes the physical and social well-being, education, and financial stability of individuals who have developmental disabilities by assisting them and their families in obtaining support and linkage to existing community resources and services. The Economic Opportunity Program manages the Family Support Services Program with funding provided by the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). The program office is located in the Ernie Davis Family Center, next door to the Ernie Davis Community Center at Baldwin and Fifth Street.

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Recreation

The Recreation program offers recreational opportunities found within the community for individuals and families to enjoy meaningful interactions. The program offers vouchers and admission tickets to be used once a month. Tickets are provided for the individual with disabilities and a caregiver.

 

Play Groups

The FSS program has three Autism Playgroups (ages 3-8, 9-14, and 15-21) and one General Disability group, which run monthly activities. Parent volunteers facilitate these groups. The playgroups offer individuals who are OPWDD eligible the opportunity to participate in meaningful activities in the community, which encourages socialization, community interaction, and growth. It is also an opportunity for parents to form support groups amongst each other and receive advocacy from the Program Coordinator.

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These services are provided even if the family member already receives Service Coordination from another local agency, such as Early Intervention. The EOP OPWDD Family Support Program can be an adjunct to current services or a stand-alone resource.

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Sensory Room**

The Family Support Services Sensory Room is open to the general public, a scheduled appointment is advised, but drop-ins are welcome. There is no need to be enrolled in a Family Support Services program in order to use the room. No OPWDD eligibility is required.

This room can be used by people of all ages and abilities for relaxation, focused work, stimulation, therapy, and/or stress release. **This project has been funded by the Community Foundation of the Southern Tier.