Credit: PA Internet News Service
First Lady Lori Shapiro and Pennsylvania Department of Labor and Industry Secretary Nancy Walker visited Community Options’ Daily Plan It in Newtown Township on Monday.
The visit was part of the Shapiro Administration’s effort to work with the disability community and to creating meaningful work opportunities, according to Daily Plan It officials.
During her visit, Shapiro learned about the program and the impact it has on the lives of Pennsylvanians living with disabilities.
The Daily Plan It, one of Community Options’ entrepreneurial ventures, offers a model for job training and employment, blending fully furnished office space rentals and virtual tenancy with competitive integrated employment for people with disabilities.
“It was a pleasure to join Secretary Walker and Community Options at the Daily Plan It in Newtown, to see how they’re giving Pennsylvanians living with disabilities the opportunities to succeed through meaningful work in our communities,” said Shapiro. “Josh and I believe everyone in Pennsylvania should be seen, heard, and treated with dignity – and that’s why we’re focused on ensuring people with disabilities have the supports they need to live, work, and pursue their goals.”
Walker lauded Community Options’ efforts at the Newtown Township location.
“Community Options’ dedication to supporting individuals with disabilities is inspiring,” said Walker.
The state officials met with Community Options team during the visit.
“We are immensely grateful to First Lady Shapiro and Secretary Walker for taking the time to visit the Daily Plan It and witness firsthand the impactful work being done to create opportunities for individuals with disabilities,” said Community Options’ President and CEO Robert Stack. “We also extend our sincere appreciation to the Shapiro Administration for their steadfast commitment to supporting the disability community.”
Community Options, a national nonprofit organization, has been at the involved in developing housing and employment solutions for people with disabilities. The organization assists over 5,000 individuals across the country, including more than 550 residents in Pennsylvania.
Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro’s latest budget proposal includes significant funding to further support individuals with disabilities. A total of $217 million in state funds, augmented by an additional $266 million in federal matching funds, is earmarked to enhance the wages of Direct Support Professionals.
