A message from The Arc of the United States: Exciting news! Congress introduced a new bill that would increase desperately needed funding for people with disabilities to live in their communities. The Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Relief Act of 2023 was introduced in Congress by Senator Bob Casey (D-PA). The bill would provide two years of additional Medicaid funds to: •              Improve access to HCBS by increasing direct care worker pay and benefits; •              Decrease the number of people on waiting lists for HCBS (currently over 650,000!); and •              Pay for assistive technologies, staffing, and other costs that facilitate community integration. Take action now to [...]

It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Jeffrey Smith.  Jeffrey moved into The Arc of Essex County’s West Orange Group Home in 1998, and attended our Livingston/Reach CRC, which became the West Caldwell Hub day program. Jeffrey enjoyed watching General Hospital and the Channel 7 news with his best friend, William. Jeffrey and William talked every day in Jeffrey’s bedroom about sports and William’s extensive record collection. Their bond was unbreakable. His favorite teams were the Giants and the Yankees. He loved attending Camp Hope each summer, Man Cave Mondays at Studio Arc, and participating in community [...]

For individuals seeking a community living placement, The Arc of Essex County has the following November 2023 openings: NEW! West Orange Community Residence (1 Male or Female Vacancy) 24/7 supervision Single-family style group home, with ample back yard and patio Co-ed living arrangement with active group of residents who share diverse interests and hobbies Residents enjoy helping to take care of the home with meal preparation and home maintenance Located near shopping center and movie theater Meadowbrook Condo (1 Male Vacancy) Unlicensed two-bedroom condo in Maplewood Candidates would be on the Supports Program Close to public transportation Care based on individual needs Orange Community Residence (1 Male or Female Vacancy) 24/7 supervision Single-family style [...]