Poughkeepsie...The Dutchess County Department of Behavioral & Community Health (DBCH) will hold a public forum on Tuesday, March 6 from 4-6 p.m. to discuss services needed in Dutchess County for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The forum will be held from 4-6 pm in the DBCH training room at 230 North Road in Poughkeepsie. All input received at the forum will help shape the County’s 2019 Local Services Plan for Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. Families and caregivers are especially encouraged to attend.

“We strongly encourage the public to participate in our forums as they offer an excellent opportunity to speak directly with the people who plan our services and can advocate for improvements,” said A. K. Vaidian, MD, MPH, Commissioner of the Dutchess County Department of Behavioral & Community Health (DBCH). “We truly want this feedback so we can understand what services work well, learn more about the challenges people face, and address where there may be shortcomings.”

In addition to offering time for public comments, the forum will review changes in care coordination, procedures for connecting to services, residential opportunities, and the County’s 24/7 mental health crisis services. Representatives from the community’s service agencies and other partners will also be available for questions.

For those unable to attend, or who do not feel comfortable speaking in public, DBCH welcomes written comments to be read aloud by the forum moderator.  Individuals may submit comments online, fax comments to (845) 486-2829, or mail to:  Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Forum, 230 North Rd, Poughkeepsie, NY  12601.

This event is sponsored by the Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities Subcommittee of the Dutchess County Mental Hygiene Board.  For more information, please call (845) 486-2766.