Dear BCCS Friends and Familes,

I hope this email finds you safe and well. Every day, we think of you – the families of the children we support. I will share that our Brookville campus is far too quiet without the activity, joy and life of our students.  We are all waiting for the time when we can dive back into our routines — going to school, seeing friends and family, and getting the kids back to being kids.

At this point, our Children’s Residential Program is following guidance set by OPWWD, together with the New York State’s Department of Health and the New York Department of Education.  These agencies are the decision makers on how and when school will resume as well as deciding when families will have in-person visits and children can enjoy activities in the greater community. Right now, we are following guidance issued in March 2020, as it remains in effect. Family members may choose to welcome loved ones into their own homes, yet the person would then need to remain away from the CRP for an extended period of time, per OPWDD guidance.

We understand how challenging this is and seek to bring you together with your children. Virtual visits and communications have been prioritized, so families can spend time together whenever needed over FaceTime, Zoom, telephone calls and letters. We are constantly looking for new and creative ways to keep you connected, but we know it is not the same as being able to reach out and give your child a hug, share a meal or spend time with siblings.

To advocate for changed OPWDD guidance, we recommend you share your perspective with them directly. When the guidelines are revised, we will share information as we receive it via email, our website and social media. You might consider signing up for OPWDD’s online updates and check the OPWDD website.

In these challenging times, we place our trust in our mission as well as our exceptional team of educators, direct support professionals, professionals, clinicians and administrators. Every day, they go above and beyond to support each child as well as his and her unique interests and needs. 

Thank you again for entrusting us with your children. It is our privilege to be of service to them and you. 

Be safe and well,

Stanfort J. Perry
Executive Director
Brookville Center for Children’s Services