Old Bethpage, NY - July 11, 2016 - As part of its efforts to more fully integrate their individuals within their communities, Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Inc. (FREE), welcomed members of Girl Scout Troop #1196 of Smithtown to their residence for individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities.

The Girl Scouts helped beautify the house by planting flowers and building a meditative garden for the residents to  use. Photo credit: FREE.

The Girl Scouts planted a beautiful garden on the front lawn of the residence with stepping stones they created and flowers donated by Borella Nursery in Nesconset. The project is part their Girl Scout Bronze Award.

Individuals in FREE’s residential programs receive skills development in such areas as socialization, recreation, problem solving, personal development, activities of daily living, travel training, health care and medication maintenance, and many more. FREE provides residential services for individuals who are differently abled in over 100 communities, throughout Long Island and New York City.

About Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Inc. (FREE)
Family Residences and Essential Enterprises, Inc. (FREE) founded in 1977 and headquartered in Old Bethpage, benefits and proudly supports more than 4,000 individuals with intellectual disabilities, mental illness and traumatic brain injury. It is the mission of FREE to help individuals of all abilities realize their full potential. FREE provides a diverse array of supports and services including: housing, recovery services, transition to work, employment, day, community and family services, respite, crisis services, education and after-school support, primary and specialty health care and advocacy. For more information, please call 516-870-7000 or visit www.familyres.org.