HeartShare's programs for children, families and the developmentally disabled assist more than 17,000 New Yorkers annually.

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OUR PROGRAMS: Family Support Services

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for HeartShare's Family Support Services?

Anyone who is diagnosed with a developmental disability and lives at home with his or her family is welcome to apply. A current, comprehensive psychological evaluation is required. We can assist with obtaining this evaluation. Age requirements and level of supports needed vary by program.

What Respite/Recreational Services do you offer?

HeartShare's Respite/Recreation activities provide supervised outings while giving families a much-needed break. They are a great way to meet new people, improve socialization skills, and provide enjoyable stimulation. Individuals are encouraged to develop friendships and enjoy the wide variety of activities. The following chart details the various programs we have to offer.

Respite/Recreational Programs
Day Time Ages Borough Program Name Contact Additional information
Wednesday 6-10 pm 18 and up Brooklyn and Queens Club HeartShare (718) 422-3292  
Saturday 1-5 pm 18 and up Brooklyn Aiello Recreation (718) 422-3276 Bedford Stuyvesant and surrounding area only; meets every other week
Saturday 12-4 pm 3-5 Queens Club HeartShare (718) 422-3292  
Saturday 12-4 pm 8-17 Brooklyn Club HeartShare (718) 422-3292  
Saturday 12-4 pm 10-15 Queens Club HeartShare (718) 422-3292  
Saturday 12-4 pm 18 and up Brooklyn and Queens Club HeartShare (718) 422-3292 Includes a group for people with dual diagnosis in Queens
Saturday 12-4 pm 18 and up Brooklyn T.G.I.S. Social Club (718) 422-3276 Independent travelers only, no transportation provided
Saturday 1-5 pm 18 and up Brooklyn and Queens Heels and Wheels I and II (718) 422-3276 For those who have difficulty walking or use a wheelchair. Heels & Wheels II meets every other week.
Sunday 1-5 pm 18 and up Queens Club HeartShare Sunday (718) 422-3276 For people with mild/moderate disabilities. Members select trips of interest, which are offered weekly, except for holiday weekends.
School Holidays 9:30 am-2 pm 13-21 Brooklyn School Holiday Program (718) 422-3276 For those with autism or mild/moderate mental retardation. Meets daily during extended school breaks.
Various weekends Varies 18 and up Brooklyn Holiday Overnight Weekends (718) 422-3292 Must have previous overnight experience and independent self-care skills.

How do I know if you have a recreation program that's right for my family member?

HeartShare's programs offer community outings for various groups on Wednesday nights, Saturday afternoons, Sunday afternoons, holiday weekends, and during school holidays. We offer recreational activities for individuals with varying levels of developmental disabilities. To determine if a program is right for your family member, please contact the program coordinator at the phone number listed above.

Do you have an opening for my family member?

If you meet the eligibility requirements and live in a location serviced by our bus company, HeartShare will determine if there is a vacancy in the program of interest. If no vacancy exists, you will be put on a wait list. Vacancies and wait lists vary by program.

What is the admission process?

Once HeartShare determines there is a vacancy, the applicant's application and evaluation forms are reviewed, and an interview is scheduled with the individual and his or her family. Our coordinator will determine if the individual will feel comfortable with the other group members and discuss important information about the program.

What are the program hours?

The hours vary for each of HeartShare's recreation programs. Please see the specific program of interest for hours. Please note—allow up to 1 to 2 hours of travel time before and after the indicated times for a program. For example, a program that starts at 12 pm may pick up a member as early as 10 am and drop off at home as late as 6 pm.

When do your programs run?

Unless indicated otherwise, HeartShare's recreation programs are held once a month from late September through June.

Do you provide transportation?

Transportation is provided for all programs except T.G.I.S. Saturday Club. Holiday Overnight participants are dropped off and picked up by families at a meeting place in downtown Brooklyn.

What other services do you offer?

HeartShare offers informational services that provide educational workshops and individual consultations to families and professionals.

  • Case Management
    Provides assistance with obtaining services for individuals who do not have Medicaid. This is available to Brooklyn residents only. For more information, contact (718) 422-3341.
  • Fragile X Syndrome Information and Referral
    Provides resources for families regarding Fragile X Syndrome, the most commonly known inherited genetic cause of mental impairment. Training for professionals is also provided. For more information, contact (718) 422-3271.
  • The Options Project
    Provides modest grants to families of individuals with special needs, based on the impact the funds will have on quality of life in the context of other resources. For more information, contact (718) 422-3290.
  • Parent Training
    Offers a 6-session weekly course to promote positive behaviors for parents of children with special needs, and a 12-session weekly course for parents with special needs. For more information, contact (718) 422-3276.
  • Home Away From Home
    Provides overnight respite to individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. We are currently recruiting host families. For more information, please contact (347) 853-3724.

Where are your programs located?

HeartShare's services are offered to families living in Brooklyn or Queens. Some programs are borough specific.

What is the cost for your programs?

Minimal fees are charged by individual programs. However, no one will be denied service due to inability to pay.

How are your programs funded?

HeartShare's Family Support programs are funded by the New York State Office of Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities and the generous support of our donors.

How can I support HeartShare's Family Support Services?

To make a donation to HeartShare's Family Support Services, visit our Donate page.

Who do I contact for more information?

For more information, or to request an application, please contact HeartShare at (718) 422-3271 or email info@heartshare.org.