Family Support Services (FSS)

The FSS Office, in conjunction with Finger Lakes Developmental Disabilities Service Office and Monroe County Health & Human Services, provides services to families who have children 6-18 years of age with developmental disabilities. FSS arranges for assistance to families needing respite, crisis intervention, recreation, family member training, informal counseling, referrals, advocacy and other inter-disciplinary specialized services.

“The Boys & Girls Club has been a home away from home for members of our family.”
Parent of Club member

FSS designs and delivers services best suited to the needs
of each individual and his or her family.

Respite
Respite provides substitute care so that the family members or the primary caregiver of an individual with developmental disabilities may attend to personal business, an emergency, or pursue a leisure-time activity. Respite is provided either in or out of the home. It may be offered over the course of several days and may take the form of homemaker service, sitter companion, family reimbursement to hire a Respite provider, or stay in a DDSO certified residence or Family Care Home.

Summer Respite Camp
A six-week summer camp mainstreams our special youth with developmental disabilities. Young people are given the opportunity to explore and experience sports such as swimming, hiking, golf, skating, martial arts, and bowling. Activities also include visits to museums, area parks, Buffalo Bills training camp and many other exciting venues.

Through exercise, weight lifting, and martial arts, youth build muscle, develop body symmetry and gain an appreciation for the value of hard work. This program has a proven track record for providing opportunities to build a healthy self-image, assist in making healthy choices, and enhance self-esteem. It also serves as a positive outlet for dealing with and reducing aggressive behavior at home towards family members, peers, and the community at large.

Homework Assistance & Technology
Working with students one-on-one, FSS staff helps them complete homework assignments and enrichment activities. Students learn computer basics, play learning games, listen to music and socialize in a designated quiet setting.