NYSID, The Arc Erie County celebrate matching grant to purchase new vehicle for janitorial services division

Helping to expand employment for employees with disabilities; combined investment totals nearly $40,000

The Arc Erie County New York press release & photos

New York State Industries for the Disabled Inc. has presented its member agency, The Arc Erie County New York, with a check in the amount of nearly $20,000, which matches the organization’s own investment. The combined $40,000 was used to purchase a new vehicle and equipment, enabling the organization to expand service routes and secure new clients through contracted janitorial services to Erie County Senior Services.

This expansion has created additional employment opportunities for people with disabilities, allowing them to gain meaningful work experience while supporting the senior community.

The Arc Erie County has been instrumental in providing essential services to those with disabilities – an underserved population in the Western New York community. There are currently 70 janitorial and lawn care Arc employees who work daily at 40 different state and local government properties throughout the region. They collectively earned $1,000,000 in wages last year, helping to address the high unemployment rate faced by people with disabilities and contribute to the economy.

The Arc Erie County is proud to be a consistent provider of inclusive employment opportunities.

“Purchasing a new vehicle is essential for our continued growth,” said Doug DiGesare, CEO of The Arc Erie County New York. “It will enable us to expand our janitorial services to additional clients for contracted janitorial services to Erie County Senior Services.

“Since launching this program in 2022, we have steadily grown to serve 70 senior residences. Each week, our team delivers high-quality cleaning services to these homes. With the new vehicle and equipment, we are growing quickly and will be able to provide additional service – and in direct return, further increase employment opportunities for people with disabilities. We are thankful to NYSID for their support.”

Maureen O’Brien, president and CEO of NYSID, said, “We are thankful for member agencies like The Arc Erie County who walks the walk when it comes to providing employees with disabilities meaningful employment opportunities that are well compensated. It makes a difference in the lives of others and also in the Buffalo community where these jobs greatly contribute to the local and state economy. We are excited to see how this grant money helps this organization to grow.”

From left: Maureen O’Brien, CEO of NYSID; Moira Mycio of the Erie County Office of the Aging; Gail Kubiniec of Erie County Office of the Aging; and Michelle Cordero, COO of The Arc Erie County New York.

The van!

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Dawn Johnson, an Erie County Senior Services client, said, “It is always great that, when the worker comes in, she already knows what needs to be done and she gets right to work. Her cleaning at the beginning of the week allows me to enjoy the week without worrying about what the cleaning looks like. The worker comes in with a smile, provides good cleaning, and will always check to see if I need anything extra done.”

Sharon Curtis, an Erie County Senior Services client, said, “It is wonderful to have someone come in and take pride in the cleaning they do. It’s one less worry I need to have during the week. She does things without being told, and puts everything back in the same spot. In addition, I am very happy that the laundry is always taken care of and folded neatly for me.” 

New York State Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes said, “These matching funds are crucial for The Arc Erie County New York to serve its clients and expand its services, while continuing to create great employment opportunities for people with disabilities.” 

More about NYSID: New York State Industries for the Disabled Inc. is a not-for-profit membership organization with a mission of “Advancing employment and other opportunities for individuals with disabilities and qualified veterans.” Through its statewide network of over 140 nonprofit rehabilitative agencies and private sector business partners, NYSID purchasing powers employment for thousands of individuals annually. In fiscal year 2025, these individuals earned $87.2 million. For more information, visit www.nysid.org.

More about The Arc Erie County New York: For over 74 years, The Arc Erie County New York has been a leading nonprofit organization supporting children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We provide comprehensive programs and services, from education and residential support to employment and recreational activities, all focused on empowering individuals to live fulfilling lives and be active, valued members of society. As a leading agency in Western New York, we take pride in our mission and advocacy that builds and strengthens the entire community.