People Inc. is pleased to announce a partnership with Mary Cariola Children’s Center in Rochester to provide an After-School Respite Program for children with developmental disabilities. 

The program, previously located on Dewey Avenue in Rochester, moved to its new location due to a partnership with Mary Cariola Children’s Center in the fall of 2016. Now located at 1544 Mt. Hope Avenue in Rochester, the program and its participants benefit from a larger physical education space, kitchen and other accommodations.

The After-School Respite Program, for children ages 5 through high school graduation age who have a developmental disability, provides supervision for children and relief for their parents. Activities are available in group and individual formats. Various opportunities for socialization are provided, along with assistance with homework, movies, arts and crafts, sensory activities and board games. In addition, participants are provided a daily snack. 

Karen Zandi, president and CEO, Mary Cariola Children’s Center, commented, “After-school respite care is truly an important program that can have a positive impact on those being cared for and their families. Mary Cariola Children’s Center is pleased to be partnering with People Inc. to provide opportunities to the community.”

“The move to Mary Cariola’s building has allowed our after-school children to enjoy larger spaces to exercise and wind down after the school day and develop relationships with peers,” said Anna Korus, senior vice president, People Inc. “In addition, the program helps parents to feel comfortable that their children’s needs are met while they complete their work schedule, prepare dinner or take a break from their own busy schedules.”

The After-School Respite Program, which operates Monday through Friday, from 2 to 6 p.m., is currently accepting participants. For more information, call 585.441.9300.

Mary Cariola Children’s Center is Rochester’s regional leader in personalized, interdisciplinary evidence based education and life skill solutions that inspire and empower individuals and families of those with complex disabilities. To learn more, visit marycariola.org. 

People Inc. provides programs and services to more than 12,500 people with special needs, their families and seniors throughout Western New York and Rochester. Since 1970, People Inc. has assisted individuals to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity. To learn more, visit people-inc.org. Like us on Facebook at People Inc. and follow us on Twitter @PeopleIncNews.