Scroll down for links to government agencies and disability rights organizations in New York. They may be able assist you with:
Many of these organizations work to address the unique needs associated with different disabilities, including but not limited to physical, intellectual, and developmental disabilities, and mental illness. Others focus on issues such as access to housing and legal assistance based on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
If you live in New York and are a person with a disability, learning about state-specific resources to support people with disabilities can help you advocate for yourself. If you are a friend, family member, or caregiver of a person with disabilities in New York, these resources can help you in supporting your loved one.
Note: this website attempts to use people first language and thus uses the term "person with a disability" rather than disabled or handicapped.
We hope you will check out the rest of OlmsteadRights.org to learn about critical rights of people with disabilities.
The New York state disability protection and advocacy (P&A) agency is Disability Rights New York (DRNY). DRNY is part of the nation's federally-funded P&A system. It provides help to people with disabilities in New York to expand and defend their rights, including supporting self-advocacy groups and legal assistance. DRNY is part of the National Disability Rights Network (NDRN). Learn more about New York's Olmstead plan.
ADRCs are the main points of access for long-term supports and services for older adults and people with disabilities, including home health care and assistive technology.
These organizations provide free legal assistance for low-income individuals, including help with accessing Social Security and Medicaid benefits.
These organizations protect and advocate for the civil and human rights of people with disabilities.
Learn about and apply for Medicaid services in New York.
The Statewide Independent Living Council (SILC) helps remove barriers to independent living for people with disabilities and works to increase necessary supports and services. It is part of the National Council on Independent Living (NCIL).
These agencies provide help for people with disabilities and their families and caregivers. Disability services are often free or low-cost.
Free assistance with transitioning from a nursing facility or institutional care to the community.
Crisis intervention and counseling for people who are in need of immediate help or need someone to talk to. If you or a loved one is experiencing emotional distress, these agencies are ready to offer free and confidential help. Common concerns include but are not limited to mental illness, suicide, intellectual or developmental disability, physical disability, substance abuse, grief, sexual assault, and family violence.
Free or low-cost resources and disability services for senior citizens and their loved ones to promote successful community living.
Provides information, training, and guidance on disability access and New York disability services. One of 10 regional centers in the ADA National Network.
These agencies address the specific needs of people with developmental disabilities. They advocate for community inclusion and access to New York disability services.
These agencies address the specific needs of people with mental illness and promote mental health. Some agencies offer free or low-cost group counseling and education programs.
Free or low-cost New York disability services for people of all ages, including physical therapy, access to employment and education, support for independent living, and assistive technology.
Information and resources for individuals with traumatic brain injuries and their loved ones.
Information and resources for people with substance abuse and their loved ones.
Information and tools for locating affordable housing and access to public housing.
