Independent Group Home Living opens two new Long Island group homes

Independent Group Home Living (IGHL), a nonprofit human services organization for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities on Long Island, announced the opening of two new group homes this month in North Yaphank and Roslyn.

The North Yaphank home is a fully accessible, single-story residence designed for seven men with a range of support needs, and will have 24-hour supervision from direct support professions, management and clinical staff. The Roslyn home has seven bedrooms, each with an en-suite bathroom, and an in-ground swimming pool. The home was purchased from the family of a resident and renovated to comply with the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) code.

“In a loving, family setting, these individuals thrive. They gain confidence, independence, and form everlasting relationships,” said Walter Stockton, president and CEO. “Our residential program encourages growth and independence while providing a genuine sense of belonging, and we will continue to expand residential opportunities to provide a home for everyone in need to the best of our abilities.”

IGHL operates 54 homes in a variety of communities throughout Suffolk County. Residents are encouraged to contribute to the upkeep of the home by working alongside their housemates and staff. Support and training are provided in areas such as cooking, self-care, grooming, money management, traveling and building relationships.

“IGHL has group home settings that have been very successful in providing opportunities for people living with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our goal is to support people so they can live independent, productive lives in the community,” said Lisa Meyer Fertal, executive director of IGHL. “Thank you to the very generous philanthropic donations that help make these houses a home, as well as the staff that care for the residents’ every need.”