June 28, 2021 | tapinto.net Online article

SOUTH BRUNSWICK/CRANBURY, NJ – A house became a home today as Community Options opened a renovated residence on Broadway Road that will permanently house four disabled women in a warm environment destined to become part of the greater community.

Phil Lian of Community Options, who was there to celebrate the opening, said, “Today presents a great opportunity to create a home to support people with disabilities in Cranbury. This is a lovely home surrounded by open space where people can enjoy being outside and having a yard without being indoors all the time. The idea is for residents to connect with their neighbors and to become part of the extended community. They can take part in local activities and have a normal life.”

Based in Princeton, Community Options is a national nonprofit that provides housing and employment to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Four people with disabilities will live at the newly renovated home, including Veronica McLean. Veronica had been receiving residential support through the New Jersey Department of Children and Families. She recently turned 21 years old and began seeking a permanent housing opportunity for adults. Veronica chose Community Options after meeting several providers with her support coordinator.

“I am really excited to move into Broadway. It is a really nice house,” said Veronica. “I already picked out my room, and I am excited to decorate it!”

The four-bedroom home was purchased through an affordable housing partnership with South Brunswick Township. The Township provided funding assistance for the down payment and for renovations to add accessible features. Community Options works with municipalities across the State of New Jersey to develop affordable housing for people with disabilities, says a press release.

“As all of us go through life, we have needs and necessarily rely upon others. The good people at Community Options serve those of us who have more needs and so rely more on others,” said South Brunswick Mayor Charles Carley in a statement. “Community Options offers our fellow-travelers the opportunity to live a life marked by freedom and dignity. South Brunswick Township is proud to assist Community Options in its noble mission.”

South Brunswick Councilman Ken Bierman said, “Anytime we can help anyone, we’re all for it. We are all about moving forward and away from 2020. This house had been in disrepair for years, now it is brought back to life. We are proud to be involved in helping young people assimilate into society.” Bierman was joined by Councilwoman Ann Grover and Township Manager Brian Bidlack at the opening.

The most telling event of the morning’s celebration, though, was the obvious joy and satisfaction expressed by Steve Stewart of Steve Stewart Construction who said that he was proud to have created a space where young people could enjoy their lives in an environment that accommodates them that is full of light and surrounded by greenery.

*As the third largest nonprofit in the state, Community Options continues to expand operations in New Jersey. Community Options currently supports 40 people with disabilities and manages 15 residential homes in Middlesex County. Statewide, Community Options supports over 1,200 people in housing and employment supports.

About Community Options, Inc.:

For over 30 years, Community Options has developed housing and employment supports for people with disabilities – serving thousands of people from over 40 offices across 10 states. Community Options provides advocacy assistance to empower people with disabilities because all people – regardless of ability level – should live and work in the community with dignity, choice and self-determination.