Now Open: New People Inc. Health Services Building

Helpful Phone Numbers  October 1, 2021: As of October 4, 2021, primary care patients of the Elmwood Health Center have been transitioned to Evergreen Health at the newly-constructed People Inc. Health Services Building at 800 Hertel Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14207 (corner of Elmwood and Hertel Avenues). This includes Adult and Pediatric Medicine, Gynecology, Podiatry and Neurology Services. This building will continue to be owned by People Inc., with the primary care clinic and pharmacy operated by Evergreen. The building will include: People Inc. Rehabilitative Health Services (Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Speech Therapy), People Inc. Counseling Services and Evergreen Health, as well as People First Mobility, a medical business providing durable medical equipment and wheelchairs. Additionally, ECMC Dental is part of the expanded health services, offering dental services opening later this year. Here’s some helpful phone numbers:  Evergreen Health   (This includes Adult and Pediatric Medicine, Gynecology, Podiatry and Neurology Services.) : 716.847.2441 People Inc. Rehabilitative Health Services  and Counseling Services : 716.566.5050 People First Mobility : 716.566.5000 ECMC Dental : 716.898.3189 For more than 50 years, People Inc. has provided various supports and health services for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, families and older adults. Learn more by visiting the People Inc. website .

Nurse of Distinction Named

Nursing Director Stacey Edwards, RN, was nominated as a Buffalo News Nurse of Distinction for never losing perspective on the People Inc. mission and consistently focusing on protecting, promoting, and optimizing the health and functioning ability of each person under her and her team’s care, according to Senior Vice President Maralyn Militello, MPA, BSN, RN. Edwards’ outstanding leadership and support of the nurses, direct support professionals and management teams began in a very front-facing role as medication administration training nurse and continues through her current Director role, managing a team of 34 people. Her leadership skills have continued to grow throughout her nursing career at People Inc., and she is well-respected for offering potential resolutions for problems, innovative trainings and sharing valuable clinical insights. Through strategic education and communication, Edwards empowers both nursing and residential staff to find answers, learn new skills, take part in a workgroup, and consider roles in management. “Each day that I can advocate for those unable to advocate for themselves brings with it a feeling of accomplishment,” Edwards said. “Each time that I support and assist my nurses and staff in providing the best possible care for the people we serve carries with it a tremendous sense of achievement. I find that the greatest experiences are not only the moments that come with a feeling of gratification, but also those that provide a teachable moment. I have fostered many relationships within the agency that have afforded me the opportunity to educate others. My career journey itself has been extremely fulfilling.” Her thoughts about her most significant contribution to the nursing profession happened during the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. “As we found ourselves in uncharted territory, I was part of a team of nurses that took charge of creating COVID sites for the people we serve.  … During this challenging time we were able to provide the 24-hour nursing care that was needed for those diagnosed with COVID, as well as protect our already fragile population.” If you, or someone you know, are seeking a fulfilling career in nursing, this video highlights some of the dedicated People Inc. nurses in action and sharing their experiences.

NYS Homes and Community Renewal, People Inc. and Mayor Brown Announce Start of Construction for Jefferson Avenue Apartments

New Apartments Continue Revitalization of Jefferson Avenue Commercial Corridor What: Construction Kick-Off of People Inc. Jefferson Avenue Apartments New York State Homes and Community Renewal, People Inc. and Mayor Brown will announce the start of construction on a $31 million affordable housing and supportive housing development on Buffalo’s East Side. Jefferson Avenue Apartments, to be located at 1140 and 1166 Jefferson Avenue, will include 89 affordable apartments in two buildings with 16 set aside for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. The ground floor of both buildings will contain a total of 16,500 square feet of commercial space, which will include retail shops and house a People Inc. recruitment office. When: Wednesday, December 19, at 11 a.m. Where: Johnnie B. Wiley Amateur Athletic Sports Pavilion, 1100 Jefferson Ave., Buffalo Who: City of Buffalo Mayor Byron W. Brown, Herb Bellamy of Bellamy Enterprises, Upstate Development Director of NYS Homes and Community Renewal Lenny Skrill, NYS Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes, NYS Senator Tim Kennedy, NYS Congressmember Brian Higgins, Common Council President and Ellicott District Common Council Member Darius Pridgen, Nick Sinatra of Sinatra and Company Real Estate and People Inc. President and CEO Rhonda Frederick.  Why: Well known for its development of group homes for individuals with developmental disabilities and affordable senior housing, People Inc. continues to serve the community by bringing various audiences together for a unique housing model. People Inc. Jefferson Avenue Apartments will include one and two-bedroom units, a community room with a small kitchen, on-site laundry facilities, ample green space, courtyards and off-street parking.  People Inc., a multispecialty non-profit health and human services agency, provides programs and services to more than 12,000 people with developmental disabilities, special needs, their families and older adults throughout Western New York and the Greater Rochester region. Since 1970, People Inc. has assisted individuals to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity. With nearly 4,000 employees, People Inc. is one of the region’s largest employers. To learn more, visit people-inc.org, follow People Inc. on Facebook or Twitter @PeopleIncNews.

NYS Office of the Chief Disability Officer Announced

People Inc. applauds these efforts to increase advocacy and looks forward to future strides under Chief Disability Officer Kimberly T. Hill’s leadership!

October 18, 2019 | Media Advisory: NYS Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul, Mayor Brown and People Inc. Celebrate Opening of New Linwood Lafayette Senior Apartments

What:  Celebration and presentation for People Inc. Linwood Lafayette Senior Apartments will bring together New York State Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul, Mayor Byron W. Brown, People Inc. President and CEO Rhonda Frederick, other elected officials and community leaders for the opening of new and affordable housing located in the City of Buffalo. As part of the exciting Gates Circle revitalization, the project will consist of 37 mixed-income apartments for older adults ages 55 years and older; ranging from 30 to 100 percent of median income. Additionally, the building includes seven units for people with developmental disabilities, also age 55 years and older, who live independently. When:  Monday, October 21, 2019, at 10 a.m. (apartments tours available after the program) Where: 637 Linwood Avenue, Buffalo (corner of Linwood and Lafayette Avenues) Who: New York State Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul, Buffalo Mayor Byron W. Brown, People Inc. President and CEO Rhonda Frederick, elected officials and community leaders. Development partners: Montante Construction and Long Associates Architects. Why:  New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo’s support of funding sources from NYS Homes and Community Renewal (HCR) allowed People Inc. to move this new mixed-income apartment project forward and become part of the Gates Circle revitalization. People Inc. continues to broaden its scope to bring diverse audiences together for affordable and unique housing models. Along with the People Inc. Senior Living 19 subsidized apartments throughout Western New York, funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, this new apartment building marks the agency’s second funded NYS Housing and Community Renewal project.  People Inc., a multispecialty non-profit health and human services agency, provides programs and services to more than 10,000 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, special needs, their families and older adults throughout Western New York and the Greater Rochester region. Since 1970, People Inc. has assisted individuals to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity. With nearly 4,000 employees, People Inc. is one of the region’s largest employers. To learn more, visit people-inc.org, follow People Inc. on Facebook or Twitter @PeopleIncNews.

Olmsted Apartments Managed by Peopled Inc. Accepting Applications

Section 8 Vouchers Accepted from Qualified Older Adults, Veterans and Applicants with Disabilities March 30, 2021: If you or a family member have a low income and are looking for safe housing, the Olmsted Apartments are currently accepting applications. People Inc. is now managing these apartments as part of its Affordable Apartments services, with locations in Erie and Niagara Counties. There are some immediate openings, while applications are also being accepted for waiting lists. These include one- and two-bedroom apartments for people 18 years of age and older, who meet income eligibility. Section 8 vouchers are accepted (except for Bawny Excelsior/HUD Apartments). Preferences are provided to applicants who have physical disabilities and/or visual impairments. Locations include: Austin Manor Apartments: 395 Tonawanda Street, Buffalo, NY Bawny Excelsior/HUD Apartments: 130 Central Avenue, Buffalo, NY Elizabeth Harvey Apartments: 525 Oliver Street, North Tonawanda, NY Gratwick Manor Apartments: 840 Tonawanda Street, Buffalo, NY Haskell Stovroff Apartments: 30 Alpine Place, Cheektowaga, NY Nelson Hopkins Apartments: 5562 Davison Road, Lockport, NY The apartments feature: Kitchen with stove and refrigerator; utilities for water and garbage removal; on-site laundry facilities; safety features; air-conditioning and community rooms. Amenities may vary. On-site management is available. Tenants may have one small pet. The apartment buildings are located near bus routes and shopping.  People Inc. is pleased to add the Olmsted Apartments to its management and to have as part of its variety of affordable housing options. The agency understands there is a need in the region for affordable and suitable housing for people of all incomes, ages and abilities. Section 8 is a federal program that helps qualified people with low-income, including older adults, veterans and applicants with disabilities, afford housing in the private market.  Staff are available to provide income eligibility details. For more information or for an apartment application, email housing@people-inc.org or call 716-880-3890.  People Inc., a multispecialty non-profit health and human services agency, provides programs and services to more than 10,000 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, special needs, families and older adults throughout Western New York and the Greater Rochester region. Since 1970, People Inc. has assisted people to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity. With nearly 4,000 employees, People Inc. is one of the region’s largest employers. To learn more, visit people-inc.org , follow People Inc. on Facebook or Twitter @PeopleIncNews.

Ombudsman Team Receives "Program of Excellence Award"

The Network in Aging of Western New York recognized program staff for their regional work by naming them the "Program of Excellence". For more than 13,000 older adults and people living with disabilities in Western New York’s long-term care facilities, the Region 15 NYS Ombudsman Program , administered through People Inc., serves as a crucial lifeline. Its mission is to ensure residents’ rights are upheld, offering much-needed advocacy, education and means of empowerment. “We are the voice of the voiceless,” says Susan Fenster, the program director for Region 15. “Many residents in nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and adult care homes are among the most vulnerable in our community. They often don’t have family or friends who can advocate on their behalf. That’s where we come in—we make sure their rights are protected.” The program covers 118 long-term care facilities across Erie, Niagara, Chautauqua, and Cattaraugus counties, providing support to residents who may otherwise go unheard. Since 2016, People Inc. has hosted the program for Region 15, managing it through a state grant. Volunteers are at the core of this work. Supported by a small staff, these trained individuals dedicate themselves to helping residents by listening to their concerns, investigating issues, and working to resolve complaints. In 2024 alone, Region 15’s volunteers donated more than 4,200 hours to advocating for a better quality of life for residents. Ultimately, the Ombudsman Program is about empowering older adults and people with disabilities to understand and exercise their rights, ensuring they receive quality care in an environment that respects their dignity.

Ombudsmen Volunteers Needed to Advocate for Long-Term Care Residents

Assistance Needed in Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie and Niagara Counties Certification training will be held this fall for people interested in advocating for residents in nursing homes and assisted living facilities throughout Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie and Niagara Counties. The NYS Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, supported locally by People Inc., connects caring and effective advocates with older adults and people with disabilities who live in nursing homes, assisted living and other licensed adult care homes. Volunteers, known as ombudsmen, visit residents to identify concerns. They investigate and resolve complaints to advocate for the rights of people living in long-term care facilities. Ombudsman volunteers assist with monitoring resident care and building conditions, while working with facility staff to correct problems, using a range of problem-resolution and advocacy skills. “Ombudsmen volunteers are urgently needed to serve society’s most vulnerable population,” said Susan Fenster, regional director. “Our volunteers can make a tremendous difference in someone’s life.” Upon successful completion of a 36-hour training program, Ombudsman volunteers are certified by the NY State Office for the Aging, work closely with their staff supervisor and are assigned to a facility in their area where they make weekly visits to meet with the facility residents. Schedules are flexible with a minimum of two hours per week. The upcoming training will be provided virtually via Zoom on weekday evenings beginning in October. In-facility mentoring is also part of the curriculum. Volunteer opportunities are available for those who work in professional fields, such as paralegals, human service staff, social workers and business professionals. Many volunteers are also recent retirees, ranging from those who have worked within education systems, administration or engineering fields.  For more information on volunteering, call 716-817-9222. People Inc., a multispecialty non-profit health and human services agency, provides programs and services to more than 12,000 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, families and older adults throughout Western New York and the Greater Rochester region. Since 1970, People Inc. has assisted people to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity. With nearly 4,000 employees, People Inc. is one of the region’s largest employers. To learn more, visit people-inc.org, follow People Inc. on Facebook or Twitter @PeopleIncNews.

Open House for Academy Place Senior Apartments in Gowanda

Tours available and apartment applications now being accepted October 11, 2019: Older adults in the southern tier and families who advocate for them have an affordable housing option. Apartment applications are now being accepted for Academy Place Senior Apartments, which will have an Open House on Friday, October 25, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 1 School Street, Gowanda, NY. Tours and eligibility information will be available. Academy Place Senior Apartments, managed by People Inc., is a HUD Section 202 Affordable Housing and New York State Tax Credit complex. The apartments provide affordable and safe housing for independent older adults age 62 and up who meet the federally-mandated household income guidelines. During the Open House, attendees can enter to win a fall-themed raffle basket, which includes a Tim Hortons gift card, mug and goodies. Refreshments will be served.  The HUD Section 202 Affordable Housing apartments are income-based. The monthly rent for the New York State Tax Credit apartments are $373 for a one-bedroom unit and $421 for a two-bedroom unit (vouchers accepted). Some utilities are included. The building consists of 28 one-bedroom units and four two-bedroom units; some of which have been specifically designed for people who are vision/hearing impaired. Apartments include a kitchen with appliances. A community room and laundry facilities are available. Additionally, storage and a 24-hour on-call emergency service are provided. Tenants may have one small pet. A senior day and lunch program that is held within the building for interested tenants is sponsored by Cattaraugus County Senior Services.  Registration for the open house event is encouraged. To register or for more information, call 716-817-9090. People Inc. Senior Living manages 19 senior apartment locations throughout Western New York providing safe, affordable housing for older adults ages 62 and older who meet income requirements.  People Inc., a multispecialty non-profit health and human services agency, provides programs and services to more than 10,000 people with developmental disabilities, special needs, their families and older adults throughout Western New York and the Greater Rochester region. Since 1970, People Inc. has assisted individuals to achieve greater degrees of independence and productivity. With nearly 4,000 employees, People Inc. is one of the region’s largest employers. To learn more, visit people-inc.org, follow People Inc. on Facebook or Twitter @PeopleIncNews .