Community, Work and Independence (CWI) is proud to partner with the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), GF South Street Apartments LLC, and Bonacio Construction to expand inclusive housing opportunities in our community. Through a Housing Services Agreement facilitated by NYS Homes and Community Renewal (HCR), five (5) of the seventy (70) new apartments being developed at South Street Apartments will be set aside with preference for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) supported by CWI.
This collaboration reflects CWI’s ongoing commitment to helping people live more independently, build meaningful connections, and fully participate in their communities. Having access to safe, affordable, and integrated housing promotes stability, dignity, and empowerment—key elements in achieving personal goals and living the life one envisions.
The South Street Apartments project aligns with OPWDD’s Integrated Supportive Housing (ISH) initiative, which began in 2012 through a partnership with HCR. The ISH program increases affordable housing options statewide by encouraging developers to reserve units for individuals with I/DD in community-integrated, non-certified settings. Through this program, OPWDD provides rental subsidies and supportive services to ensure tenants’ long-term success and independence.
For CWI, this partnership not only strengthens our mission—“to offer innovative supports and services empowering people with differing abilities and needs to discover their potential and pursue the lives they envision”—but also exemplifies the power of collaboration across state, private, and nonprofit sectors to create lasting, inclusive change within our region.
