November is here, a season of gratitude, reflection, and community. As the air turns crisp and the holidays draw near, WILC is bringing you new ways to connect, learn, and grow. Pour yourself something warm, get comfortable, and discover what’s happening this month!

Veteran's Day

Meet Harold Payne, Korean War Veteran

At 92, Harold Payne continues to embody strength, dignity, and compassion every single day. A proud Korean War Veteran, longtime community leader, and devoted husband and father, Harold now lives independently in Dover Plains with support from WILC’s Veteran Directed Care program. His story is one of perseverance, family, service, and love—and it’s truly remarkable.

This Veterans Day, we invite you to learn more about Harold’s life in his own words. Visit our blog to read his full story and celebrate a legacy that continues to inspire our entire community.

Upcoming Events

This month’s workshops cover a variety of topics, including the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), education records binders, building level supports and self-care for parents during the holidays. Don’t miss out, join these free webinars and gain helpful insights, tips, and resources!

Find details and registration info HERE!

Learn more at wilc.org.

Celebrating Recognition & Upcoming Event!

We’re thrilled to celebrate Azzura’e Wilson, who was recently honored with City & State New York’s Trailblazers in Art & Culture Award! Her passion, creativity, and dedication continues to inspire everyone around her.

Azzura’e will also be leading our upcoming “Voices Without Barriers: Virtual Poetry Slam” on Tuesday, November 19 at 1:00 PM. This event invites participants to come together in a welcoming virtual space to share stories, express themselves through poetry, and celebrate the power of words.

Don’t miss this inspiring opportunity to connect, create, and celebrate community through art!

National Diabetes Month

In recognition of National Diabetes Month, we’re excited to highlight WILC’s new Diabetes Prevention Program. This initiative is designed to empower individuals to take control of their health through education, lifestyle changes, and ongoing support.

Our latest blog, “Empowering Health: WILC’s New Diabetes Prevention Program Explained,” breaks down how the program works, who can benefit, and the impactful ways it helps participants lead healthier lives.

Visit our website to read the full blog and learn how WILC is helping our community take proactive steps toward better health!

🚨 SNAP Changes Starting November 2, 2025 🚨

New federal rules are changing how long some adults can receive SNAP benefits without meeting work requirements.

Who’s Affected:

Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) ages 18–64 — including caregivers of teens (14–17), veterans, people who are homeless, and those aging out of foster care.

What’s Changing:

New York’s waiver for ABAWD time limits ended early on Nov. 2. Starting Nov. 3, ABAWDs must meet work requirements to keep SNAP. Benefits are now limited to 3 months in

3 years unless requirements are met.

How to Stay Eligible:

Work, train, or volunteer at least 80 hours a month (earning $217.50/week qualifies).

Need Help?

Call New York Connects at 1-866-715-4700 or Social Care Network at 914-980-0958.

More info: wilc.org/ny-connects-no-wrong-door

Social Security Benefits to Increase by 2.8% in 2026

The Social Security Administration has announced that monthly Social Security benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments for 75 million Americans will increase by 2.8% in 2026. This cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) helps ensure that benefits keep pace with inflation and rising living costs. Individuals with a my Social Security account can access their personal COLA information up to three weeks earlier than by mail by signing up for digital notices by November 19.

Visit our blog to learn more about the COLA update and other important Social Security news.

New Services for Medicaid Members

If you or a family member are enrolled in Medicaid, you may qualify for new services through Hudson Valley’s Social Care Network. Get help with housing, food, and transportation, from rent and utility assistance to meal support and rides to appointments.

Find out what you’re eligible for, it’s simple and confidential.

Call (845) 228-7457 or visit hvcare.org/scn to get started.

Westchester Independent Living Center is a proud partner of Hudson Valley Care Coalition.

Resources Available

Everyone deserves to feel informed and supported. The NYS Office for New Americans offers free resources and guidance for immigrants and residents alike. Learn more about your rights and available help by visiting:

dos.ny.gov/know-your-rights or calling 1-800-566-7636.

Leave Us a Google Review!

Share your experience with the Westchester Independent Living Center (WILC) by leaving a Google review. Your feedback helps us empower individuals with disabilities to lead self-directed lives through advocacy, training, and access to essential resources. Together, let's amplify our impact and support the journey towards independent living.