Disability advocates warn Independence Care System closure could be ‘life‑changing’
ICS, which specializes in serving people with significant physical disabilities, was forced to submit a closure plan in April after years of underfunding.
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For more than 20 years, the Independence Care System has helped New Yorkers with physical disabilities live, work and participate in their communities with greater autonomy. Now, members say the program is on the brink of shutting down and the impact could be catastrophic.
ICS, which specializes in serving people with significant physical disabilities, was forced to submit a closure plan in April after years of underfunding. Members say the loss of ICS would eliminate services they rely on every day, from mobility support to home‑care coordination.
Advocates warn that without emergency government funding, ICS could close as early as July.
Members are now urging Gov. Kathy Hochul to intervene before it’s too late.
Supporters say they will continue fighting until the very end, hoping state leaders step in before ICS is forced to shut down.
The New York State Department of Health has received ICS’ notice of intent to close and it is currently under review.
News 12 has reached out to Hochul’s office and is awaiting a response.
