Congresswoman visits JESPY House, talks disabilities, autism

U.S. Rep. Mikie Sherrill visited JESPY’s Michael Och House – A Center for Aging at JESPY, and heard about the problems facing older people with disabilities.

The Och House in South Orange is a national model for providing adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities with the support they need to live independently so they can stay in the communities they know and love as they continue to age.

Sherrill met with people from various programs to hear about issues of importance such as affordable housing, employment opportunities for people with disabilities, and JESPY’s future.

“I am so proud to represent all of you,” said Sherrill, who represents the 11th Congressional District which includes Belleville and Nutley. “I am on the Autism Caucus and the Disability Caucus and that is because this is something that is near and dear to all of our hearts here in New Jersey.”

Sherrill was greeted with flowers and welcome signs specially made by JESPY clients. Also attending the event were JESPY’s Executive Director Audrey Winkler, JESPY Board President Dr. Ahadi Bugg-Levine, and Board Members Dr. Michael Och, Jonathan Myers, Alison Lewis, and Diane Davis. Several JESPY staff members were also in attendance.

Before introducing Sherrill, BuggLevine acknowledged the Myers family, who were one of the families that established JESPY House 45 years ago, and Dr. Och, a major donor and namesake of the Och House.

By Giulia Polewka

While addressing attendees, Sherrill said many of the families she’s met feel comfortable with the support services that are available for their child until they reach the age of 18.

“But parents are concerned about services for their children as they become older,” she said. “They wonder what life is going to look like. But all of you, as clients, are ambassadors for JESPY House and what’s possible for the future.”

To address the concerns of families, Sherrill is co-leading new legislation introduced by Rep. Marc Molinaro, RN.Y. The Think Differently Database Act will allow for the creation of a comprehensive website that will make finding support services, federal and state resources, and programs much easier.

After listening to comments and questions from clients, Winkler thanked clients for participating and said to Sherrill, “We want to make sure we give you a great tour of the Och House and tell you more about our wonderful programs and projects. We have long waiting lists for our Aging in Place programs and services because our work is so critical. We have clients from 11 counties in New Jersey and from all over the country for all of our JESPY programs and services. Thank you so much for visiting JESPY.”

JESPY House supports 260 adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities age 18 and older.