On Monday, May 27, Brookhaven Town Supervisor Dan Panico and Councilwoman Karen Dunne Kesnig joined Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Inc. (FREE) and members of the community for a ribbon cutting ceremony at 35 Pinetop Drive in Shirley, marking the opening of Long Island’s first high-tech smart home for individuals with autism and developmental disabilities.
The Pinetop IRA, a fully accessible four-bedroom residence, is equipped with assistive technology designed to promote independence for residents who require limited oversight. Voice-activated lighting, smart appliances, Bluetooth-enabled fixtures, adjustable kitchen counters, and individual climate controls empower residents to manage daily tasks more independently and safely.
“This smart home is, in many ways, the first of its kind,” said Supervisor Dan Panico. “I believe we are going to see more of these homes in Brookhaven— and we need to. Autism affects one in 36 people. It’s a staggering number, and we have a responsibility to meet the needs of our population, support individuals with challenges, and help their families. This home is a meaningful step forward.”
Councilwoman Karen Dunne Kesnig, who represents the area, added, “This project demonstrates how technology can be a powerful tool for independence. It’s heartening to see our community support housing that is both innovative and compassionate.”
The residence, operated by FREE, is tailored for men and women seeking a more independent lifestyle with access to essential support. The organization hopes the Shirley smart home will serve as a model for future developments across the region.
For more information about FREE and its services, visit www.familyres.org.
Credit: Town of Brookhaven