Independent Living - Niagara County

09/04/2026

January is Guide Dog Month, a time to honor the incredible role guide dogs play in empowering individuals who are blind or visually impaired. At WNY Independent Living, we celebrate independence, accessibility, and the tools that help people live fully and confidently in their communities.

Through programs like our Aged, Blind & Disabled Facilitated Enrollment Program, we provide personalized support for Medicaid applications to those 65+, or certified as blind or disabled. Our staff meet individuals wherever it’s most convenient—at home, in the community, or at the office—to ensure access to essential benefits.

We also assist Medicaid-enrolled individuals with Medicare applications, helping them gather the information and documents needed to maintain coverage and independence.

Just like a guide dog supports mobility and confidence, WNYIL supports independence and self-advocacy for individuals across Western New York.

📞 Contact Us for Assistance:
• Independent Living Center of Erie County: 716-836-0822 ext. 331
• Independent Living of the Genesee Region: 585-815-8501 ext. 336
• Independent Living of Niagara County: 716-284-4131 ext. 335

09/01/2026

Thank you to everyone who came together for Lockport’s 10th Annual International Overdose Awareness Day Rally on August 31st!

Despite the change of location, the community showed up with compassion, strength, and support. We shared testimonies of hope and loss, participated in a flameless candlelight vigil, provided Narcan training, and honored those we have lost while standing together to prevent future loss.

A special thank you to our sponsors, community partners, speakers, volunteers, and everyone who attended and helped make this meaningful evening possible.

Together, we can prevent fatal overdose. 💜

09/01/2026

Yesterday's weather may have been a little uncooperative, but it didn't dampen the spirits of our committee and attendees at last night's Overdose Awareness Day Rally. Our speakers left a lasting impact on everyone in attendance. A special thank you to Christ Community Church for allowing us to hold the rally in the gymnasium.

Streaming from Lockport, NY

09/01/2026

September is Pain Awareness Month, a time to recognize the challenges faced by individuals living with chronic pain. At WNY Independent Living, we believe every person deserves access, support, and independence, regardless of the physical or invisible pain they may experience.

Chronic pain can impact daily living, employment, and community participation—but with the right resources, advocacy, and peer support, individuals can continue to live empowered and meaningful lives.

WNYIL provides:
• Peer-led support and community connections
• Independent living skills training and adaptive strategies
• Resources for pain management, accessibility, and advocacy

Together, we can break down barriers, raise awareness, and create a more inclusive Western New York.

💙 Join us in supporting Pain Awareness Month by sharing resources, spreading understanding, and advocating for accessibility for all.

08/30/2026

💛 Today is Grief Awareness Day 💛

Grief affects everyone differently, and no one should have to face it alone.

At Western New York Independent Living (WNYIL), programs like Mental Health PEER Connection (MHPC) and the Renewal Center provide peer-led support, connection, and encouragement for individuals navigating grief, loss, and other life challenges.

Through peer support, advocacy, wellness activities, and a welcoming community, these programs help individuals build resilience, find hope, and know they are not alone on their journey.

If you or someone you know could use support, we're here to help.

📞 Mental Health PEER Connection: 716-836-0822
📞 Renewal Center: 716-245-4200

08/28/2026

📢 WNY Independent Living All Staff Day 📢

Today, all WNY Independent Living locations are closed as our staff come together for an All Staff Day focused on connection, learning, and strengthening the important work we do in our communities.

Thank you to our dedicated team members across all of our locations for your continued commitment to independence, inclusion, and empowering people with disabilities.

Please note:
💜 The Kirsten A. Vincent Respite & Recovery Center (Renewal Center) remains open and available during regular hours.

📍 Kirsten A. Vincent Respite & Recovery Center
111 Maple St.
Buffalo, NY 14204
📞 716-245-4200
🕐 Open Daily: 1:00 p.m. – 9:30 p.m.
✨ Free to individuals 18 and over

We appreciate your understanding and look forward to serving you when our offices reopen.

08/26/2026

🐾 Happy National Guide Dog Day! 🐾

Today, we celebrate the incredible work of guide dogs and the independence they provide to people who are blind or visually impaired. At WNY Independent Living, we honor the partnership between these amazing animals and the individuals they support—helping them navigate daily life with confidence and freedom.

💙 Independence, Empowerment, and Community
Our programs, including Independent Living Services and Peer Support, are dedicated to fostering accessibility and independence for all, including providing resources for those who rely on guide dogs to live fully and safely in the community.

📞 Learn more about services for individuals who are blind or visually impaired: 716-836-0822 | [email protected]

08/24/2026

💉 August is Immunization Awareness Month! 💉

At WNY Independent Living, we believe in keeping our community safe and healthy. Vaccinations protect individuals of all ages—especially seniors, people with disabilities, and those with underlying health conditions—from serious diseases.

✅ Why Immunizations Matter:
• Prevent illness and hospitalizations
• Protect vulnerable populations in the community
• Support independence and quality of life

Our Independent Living Specialists can connect you with resources, information, and support to make sure you and your loved ones stay protected.

📞 Call us at 716-836-0822 or email [email protected] to learn more about accessing immunization resources in WNY.

08/21/2026

👵👴 Happy Senior Citizens Day! 🎉

At WNY Independent Living, we celebrate our seniors and honor their independence, dignity, and well-being. For seniors and people with disabilities facing housing challenges, our Rapid Rehousing Transition Program (RTHP) helps ensure safe, accessible, and affordable homes.

🏠 RTHP Highlights:
• Ongoing rental subsidies for high-need Medicaid beneficiaries.
• Assistance with furniture, essential household items, and small home modifications through Community Transition Services (CTS).
• Wraparound support from Independent Living Specialists to connect participants with community resources.

📍 Available in Erie & Niagara Counties
📞 Erie: 716-836-0822 | Niagara: 716-284-4131

For seniors in Genesee County, Pathstone Rapid Rehousing provides rental assistance and support for security deposits to help individuals quickly obtain and maintain stable housing.

📞 Genesee: 585-815-8501

On this Senior Citizens Day, we celebrate independence, safe homes, and community support for older adults and people with disabilities. 💙