February 24, 2003  

Public Forum on Service Needs for People with Developmental Disabilities to be Held
 

Poughkeepsie... A Public Forum on service needs for people with developmental disabilities and their families will be held on Tuesday, March 11, from 4-6 in the Multi-Purpose Room, Mental Health Center, 230 North Road, it was announced today by William R. Steinhaus, Dutchess County Executive. The event is open to all Dutchess County residents and is being sponsored by the Developmental Disabilities Subcommittee of the Dutchess County Mental Hygiene Board.

Mr. Steinhaus said: “This forum is being held so that the county can determine what supports are necessary to help people with developmental disabilities live successfully in the community. The Department of Mental Hygiene is inviting consumers, family members, providers and all interested citizens to come and speak about their concerns regarding services, or lack thereof, for people who have a developmental disability.”

According to the Commissioner of Mental Hygiene, Dr. Kenneth Glatt, “The input from those who attend the Forum will assist the Department in the formulation of its Local Governmental Plan for the year 2004.

We’re talking about improving opportunities for people who have been diagnosed as having a developmental disability.”

Dr. Benjamin S. Hayden, Division Chief for Developmental Disabilities Services, and Dr. John LaMothe, Chairperson of the Developmental Disabilities Subcommittee, will moderate the meeting.

The Mental Hygiene Board’s Developmental Disabilities Subcommittee is a planning and advisory group of volunteer citizens. Dr. Hayden serves as Staff Liaison to the Subcommittee, whose nine members are appointed by the Mental Hygiene Board. For further information, please contact Dr. Hayden at the Department’s Mansion Street Center. The telephone number is 486-3700.

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