DDS highlights new transition home, respite-center tours and supportive housing openings

Deputy Commissioner Alisa Vilardo told the council that DDS staff toured a newly opened transition home in Bristol designed as a community living arrangement with five individual apartments and shared common space to help residents prepare for independent living. Vilardo described integrated assistive technology (voice assistants, sensors to regulate bathroom water temperature, and other tools) and said individuals will receive training and support for up to two years before moving into more individualized settings.

Vilardo also reported that DDS resumed its monthly respite-center tours; the respite network includes 12 smart-home-equipped centers that serve children through seniors. She said the Respite Center tour in New Haven had high attendance and families found the demonstrations and assistive-technology exhibits reassuring.

Staff highlighted supportive housing developments, including a renovated historic mill in New Britain called the Ellis Block, developed in partnership with CCARC. Vilardo said the property includes community amenities such as a fitness center and shared spaces and that residents there are engaging in outreach forums.

Council members and family representatives praised the tours and encouraged colleagues to visit future locations. Vilardo said the agency will share links to respite-center information and noted the state continues to coordinate respite resources and assistive-technology demonstrations as a resource for families and providers.