Politics & Government
Bolinsky and Foncello Visit Ability Beyond
State Reps Bolinsky and Foncello toured residential homes for clients with disabilities in Newtown and in Brookfield.
**News Release Submitted by Connecticut House Republicans**
July 19, 2024
State Representatives Mitch Bolinsky (R-106) and Martin Foncello (R-107) were both invited by Ability Beyond to tour residential homes for clients with disabilities in Newtown and in Brookfield.
"I am always impressed with the work of Ability Beyond, and the range of life-enriching services they provide to significantly improve the lives of their clients in Newtown and our surrounding communities. Having this kind of individualized programming close to home is the reason I am so committed to, and such a supporter of our non-profit providers, like Ability Beyond,” said Rep. Bolinsky, who has long been an advocate for intellectually and developmentally disabled individuals, and their families.
"Providing an in-home setting for clients is more important than ever as the lifespan of people Ability Beyond serves has doubled. But that comes with challenges since many of these homes are older and not as mobile-friendly as they need," said Rep. Foncello. “We talked about one challenge the non-profit is facing that I hope we’ll be able to work toward a resolution. There is a state Department of Developmental Services moratorium on new group homes because there are currently vacancies, but there are vacancies because the units don't meet accessibility requirements of people who have mobility issues.”
Ability Beyond serves Newtown residents with disabilities by partnering with Newtown businesses and Newtown Social Services. In addition to employment programs, they provide around-the-clock residential support across three Newtown group homes to 18 men and women with traumatic brain injuries and developmental disabilities, helping their clients live safe, independent, fulfilling lives with dignity.
Additionally, Ability provides accessible transportation for these men and women, as well as recreational activities through their day program, clinical supports and more. Business partners within Newtown help Ability Beyond prepare dozens more individuals with disabilities for the workforce, through internships, part and full-time employment. In addition to Tier ONE, Promotion Mechanics, Walgreens, Big Y, and Misty Morning Children’s Center also are active in Ability Beyond programs.
The Bethel-based nonprofit provides services to more than 3,000 people across Connecticut and New York.
