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The beauty of the Adirondacks is displayed, symbolizing the beauty of safe and supportive OPWDD housing from Citizen Advocates.The beauty of the Adirondacks is displayed, symbolizing the beauty of safe and supportive OPWDD housing from Citizen Advocates.

OPWDD housing plays a vital role in helping adults with developmental disabilities live healthy, independent and meaningful lives. At Citizen Advocates, we offer Supervised and Supportive housing options certified by the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD). These residential services provide person-centered support in safe, comfortable homes located throughout Franklin and Essex counties.

What is OPWDD Housing?

OPWDD housing refers to residential programs for individuals diagnosed with an intellectual or developmental disability prior to the age of 22. These homes are designed to promote stability, encourage independence and foster community involvement—while ensuring that each individual receives the level of support they need to thrive.

Our Housing Options

Citizen Advocates operates:

  • 14 Supervised Individualized Residential Alternatives (IRAs) with 24/7 staffing
  • 5 Supportive IRAs with staffing based on individual needs

Our residences include 12-bed, 6-bed and 3-bed homes, tailored to provide the right balance of support and autonomy. Each location is staffed by trained professionals who assist with:

  • Meal preparation
  • Medication management
  • Personal care
  • Community engagement

Who We Serve

Our OPWDD housing programs serve adults with developmental disabilities who benefit from a structured, supportive environment. Referrals are provided through OPWDD and carefully reviewed by our Community Living team. We consider a variety of factors to ensure the best possible placement, including:

  • Mobility and physical needs
  • Communication abilities
  • Behavioral supports
  • Personal goals and preferences

Our Approach

We believe in helping individuals live the life of their choosing. Every resident receives customized support designed around their needs, interests and long-term goals. Our mission is to provide housing that:

  • Supports personal growth and life skills
  • Creates a safe, nurturing and stable environment
  • Offers opportunities to connect with friends, family and the community
  • Promotes independence in the least restrictive setting possible

Citizen Advocates is proud to provide OPWDD housing that empowers individuals to lead fuller, more connected lives—on their terms.

Related services

OASAS Permanent Living & Housing

A 7-bed program that serves adults who have a primary diagnosis of a substance use disorder, a history or are at-risk of homelessness, and meet specific hospitalization or high Medicaid utilization criteria.

View Details »

Need help navigating our community housing & living services?

At Citizen Advocates, we work as a team to provide the best individual, person-centered services to the people we serve. Care coordination assists clients with identifying and accessing the services that will assist them in addressing the problems they are experiencing, or that will help them to achieve a higher quality life or level of functioning.