About HHDNYC.org
What is Helping Hands for the Disabled of NYC?We are an organization of disabled people helping disabled people. We believe that disabled people should have the right to control their own lives, even if at times we need assistance.
History – How We Got Started
In 1982, a group of us decided that there were not enough recreational opportunities for persons with disabilities that provided access services. For example, trips, which provide sighted guides for the blind, wheelchair accessible vans, and sign language interpreters for the deaf.
We began organizing trips once a month that included the necessary access services that allowed disabled persons to enjoy more recreational events. We also made our choices about what kinds of things were appropriate for our own needs.
As the years went on, we realized that disabled persons needed help in their homes, particularly the totally blind who require assistance with such tasks as reading mail, completing paperwork, running errands and keeping medical appointments. We have always worked with volunteers to provide these services. Our volunteers come from all walks of life and many of them are also disabled.
We provide all information by means of accessible media via our Action Line.
Any disabled person, age 18 years or older, can become a member of our organization which entitles them to any service they need, including our monthly social event.
We are the only organization that steps in to help disabled adults with emergencies without requiring a ton of paperwork, and we can help people with everyday problems immediately. For example, if someone calls because they need a winter coat, their need is filled immediately. If a disabled person's benefits are interrupted and they have no money to feed their guide dog, we will step in and see that this need is met immediately.
We have very modest fees, and our dues are $20.00 a year. In order to receive our services, you must be a member.