The South Orange Planning Board voted recently to approve JESPY House’s application for The JESPY Center, a transformative project aimed at providing a fully accessible residential, service, and program space for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This state-of-the-art building will feature 31 units serving at least 46 clients.
JESPY House, a nonprofit organization committed to independence for adults with IDD, has long been a fixture in South Orange. Its mission focuses on ensuring that individuals have access to meaningful employment, vibrant social networks, and the opportunity for independent living.
The JESPY Center’s approval comes at a crucial time when our state and the nation grapples with a housing crisis that disproportionately impacts individuals with disabilities. Clients have faced housing insecurity due to rising costs, making this project essential.
Audrey Winkler, JESPY’s Executive Director, expressed her excitement for the Planning Board’s decision.
“We are thrilled! We are truly appreciative of the Village’s support of this critical project that will provide affordable housing for those most in need. Clients have called South Orange home for over 45 years. Yet, some have lost their apartments due to escalating rents that outpaced their salaries. Many more are at great risk. This project represents a lifeline, allowing our clients to remain in a community where they have built their lives,” Winkler said.
For many adults with IDD, stability and routine are crucial for independence. The JESPY Center will provide an environment where residents can thrive.
Planning Board members read hundreds of pages of public documents, heard many hours of testimony from experts, and listened to extensive questions and comments from the community.
Dr. Ahadi Bugg-Levine, president of JESPY’s Board of Trustees, noted: “This was a rigorous process. We are grateful for the Planning Board’s hard work and for the many community members who showed their commitment to JESPY and the project.”
Established in South Orange in 1978, JESPY House currently supports 300 clients in areas that include Day Habilitation and Engagement & Enrichment programs; Case Management; Community-Based Supports; Clinical & Behavioral Support Services; Athletics & Fitness; and Work Readiness & Employment Engagement.
