Developmentally Disabled Services
In the 1970s, the inhumane treatment of the developmentally disabled was exposed in the media and New York State encouraged the establishment of non-institutional homes for people with developmental disabilities. St. Vincent's responded to this need by creating community residences where 54 profoundly disabled adults, ages 20 through 70+, live in five "family style" Brooklyn residences. Many of our residents have lived together since they were children or teenagers and spent the earlier part of their lives in horrific conditions.
St. Vincent's turned their lives around and today provides comfortable living conditions, high-quality medical care and physical therapy. We engage these residents in practical workshops throughout the week, so that they can care for themselves to the best of their individual abilities, and take them on recreational and cultural outings on weekends. Overall, we ensure that our residents' quality of life is as high as possible and encourage them to express themselves by choosing their own clothing and room decor, and by engaging with one another, and their families and friends, in a positive, affirming manner.








