Advocates Gather in Albany for NYDA Rally to Support Disability Services

Albany, NY — Advocates, self-advocates, families, and service providers gathered in Albany today for the New York Disability Advocates (NYDA) Rally, calling on state leaders to strengthen support for individuals with developmental disabilities and the direct support professionals who assist them every day.

Members of Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Inc. (FREE) joined hundreds from across New York State to raise awareness about the importance of investing in services that allow people with developmental disabilities to live, work, and thrive in their communities.

The rally brought together organizations and advocates united in their message to legislators: increased funding and resources are essential to maintaining quality supports and addressing the ongoing workforce challenges facing the disability services sector.

Direct support professionals (DSPs), who provide essential daily support to individuals with developmental disabilities, were a central focus of the rally. Advocates emphasized the need for continued investment in the workforce to ensure these critical services remain strong and sustainable.

“Events like the NYDA Rally are an important opportunity to come together and make our voices heard,” said representatives from FREE. “Advocating for individuals with developmental disabilities and the professionals who support them is critical to building more inclusive communities across New York.”

The rally served as part of a broader effort by disability advocacy groups to engage state lawmakers during the legislative session and ensure that the needs of individuals with disabilities remain a priority in the state budget and policy discussions.

Through collective advocacy and collaboration, organizations hope to secure the resources necessary to strengthen services and improve the lives of thousands of New Yorkers with developmental disabilities.