ELMIRA, NY (WENY) -- A non-profit organization that helps serve people with developmental and intellectual disabilities will be rolling out new tools to help them live more independently.

The Arc of Chemung-Schuyler has been awarded a contract with the New York State Office for People with Developmental  Disabilities (OPWDD). The contract will allow the Arc to enable their clients to have more choices when it comes to their living environment. The use of adaptive technologies will empower some individuals to live in their own apartment, and be less reliant on in-person support staff. The types of technology used can vary, from apps to cameras and sensors, and can range from a notification to do something at a certain time, or even meet with a caregiver or medical provider virtually. 

"For an individual with intellectual disabilities it can be life-changing. Home enabling support technology takes it to another level, these are secure devices so there’s no issue with that. But individuals can access their caregivers through remote support. We can monitor the safety of their apartment, and ensure that nobody is coming to their door which is unsafe, or even monitor some of their appliances to ensure that they turn them off properly, turn them on," explained Arc of Chemung-Schuyler CEO, Salvatore Garazzo.

The Arc of Chemung-Schuyler is now looking at different vendors that offer this type of technology, and training its support staff. The non-profit says having this contract, along with the new adaptive tools for clients, will allow them to potentially serve more local families as well. 

The initial contract with OPWDD is expected to be around $300,000. 

To learn more about The Arc of Chemung-Schuyler's programs and support services, click here.