This year’s proposed NYS Budget from the Executive includes a $230,000 cut to the Adult Home Advocacy and Adult Home Resident Council programs, modest but critical initiatives that protect the rights, dignity, and quality of life of some of New York’s most vulnerable residents.
These programs provide:
- Independent legal advocacy to ensure residents receive required services and protections
- Rights education and problem-solving support when issues arise with treatment, safety, or living conditions
- Resident Council development, empowering individuals to organize, raise concerns, and advocate for improvements in their homes
- A trusted, independent presence that helps prevent neglect, isolation, and rights violations
For many residents living with significant mental health and medical needs, these programs are the only independent voice available to help them navigate systems, resolve problems, and ensure they are treated with dignity and respect.
Yesterday, The Capitol Pressroom highlighted the impact of these programs and the serious consequences of eliminating them. The interview features representatives from the Coalition of Institutionalized Aged and Disabled and Alliance CEO Harvey Rosenthal, along with peer advocate and former adult home resident Deborah Hunter, who speaks powerfully about why independent advocacy matters.
At a time when many residents are already facing uncertainty and growing needs, this is not the moment to eliminate a small but essential investment that protects rights and strengthens accountability. The Alliance continues to call on the Governor and Legislature to restore funding and preserve these critical programs.
Protecting community living means protecting people’s voices. See below to listen to the interview.
Hochul Proposes Cut to Adult Home Advocacy Program
By David Lombardo | Capitol Pressroom | February 19, 2026
Feb. 19, 2026- Gov. Kathy Hochul is proposing to eliminate $230,000 in state funds for programs that help vulnerable New Yorkers living in adult homes advocate for better living conditions. We talked with representatives from the Coalition of Institutionalized Aged and Disabled and the Alliance for Rights and Recovery, plus peer advocate and former adult home resident Deborah Hunter.
Listen to the interview:
https://www.wqxr.org/story/hochul-proposes-cut-to-adult-home-advocacy-program