2011 Annual Report - FEGS

Housing
Having a place to call home is one of the
most basic human needs. And for many,
having not only a home but a supportive,
nurturing living environment is essential for
coping with life’s challenges, managing health
conditions and achieving a fulfilling life. For
more than three decades, FEGS has been a
major provider of specialized housing programs
and support services for people with mental
illness, developmental disabilities, those who
are deaf and/or blind, seniors, formerly homeless
and low-income individuals and others with
special needs.
Each day, more than 1,500 people live with
dignity and as independently as possible in one
of many FEGS housing settings that integrate
care into the community and celebrate residents’
cultures and traditions. Using a person-centered
approach, FEGS housing and residential programs
14 FEGS Health & Human Services
cover a broad spectrum, from 24-hour staff
supervised residences to serve those with the
greatest needs, to apartment living with ongoing
supports for those able to live more independently.
FEGS’ model of care focuses on helping residents
develop key life skills, become integrated within
the neighborhoods where they live, receive
necessary medical and mental health care,
connect with education and employment
programs and become more self-reliant.
This past year, with support from Manhattan
Borough President Scott Stringer, New York City
Council Member Rosie Mendez, the New York City
Housing Development Corporation and the New
York City Department of Housing Preservation and
Development, FEGS launched a $4.4 million
major renovation to modernize and green Tanya
Towers, which provides a home for individuals with
a range of sensory impairments and disabilities.
FEGS is developing new models of innovative
supportive and affordable housing that expand
and diversify our residential portfolio, providing
homes and communities for individuals with
limited incomes and a range of special needs.