Governor Kathy Hochul attended the ribbon cutting ceremony for The Center for Discovery’s Children’s Specialty Hospital in Rock Hill, New York. The event included a tour of the facility with Dr. Terry Hamlin, President & CEO of The Center for Discovery (TCFD), and other staff members. During the visit, Governor Hochul met with a 12-year-old program participant and his family.
The hospital is designed to provide specialized short-term inpatient care for children and adolescents with complex disabilities such as autism. Developed over ten years by TCFD’s multidisciplinary team in collaboration with the New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD), the facility introduces a new model focused on proactive treatments to reduce long-term residential placements.
“Spending time with the children, families and staff at The Center for Discovery’s Children’s Specialty Hospital is an important reminder of just how important investments in our health care system are,” Governor Hochul said. “While Republicans in Washington continue to advance policies that jeopardize the health and safety of millions, here in New York, we will continue to stand up for our most vulnerable. We recognize the daily struggles faced by New Yorkers with complex developmental disabilities and their families, and will remain steadfast in supporting and providing assistance to the health care workforce that empowers them to lead more fulfilling lives.”
Funding for the Children’s Specialty Hospital project included a $48 million low-interest loan from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Office of Rural Development’s Community Facilities Program, secured with help from Senator Schumer, along with a $4 million investment from Empire State Development. Additional support came from OPWDD, the New York State Department of Health (DOH), and Dormitory Authority of the State of New York (DASNY).
Governor Hochul’s visit was part of her statewide tour highlighting concerns about proposed federal cuts that could impact healthcare funding in New York. According to state officials, these changes could result in significant reductions affecting insurance coverage and benefits for many residents.
Under Governor Hochul’s leadership, state initiatives have aimed at advancing preventive and holistic care models for people with developmental disabilities.
Dr. Terry Hamlin stated: “We are deeply honored to welcome Governor Hochul to The Center for Discovery and our new Children’s Specialty Hospital — where hope meets innovation for New York’s most medically complex children. Here, world-class care, pioneering research, and comprehensive family support are transforming lives and setting a new standard for how we serve children with autism and complex conditions. With the Governor’s leadership and the State’s continued investment, we can expand access to these life-changing programs so every child in New York has the chance to live their healthiest, fullest life. Together with the Department of Health, and through the Governor’s support, we are also addressing a critical gap in long-term care by creating an Adult Advanced Medical Care program for individuals aging with complex conditions. This is more than a building — it’s about creating a model of care that uplifts the most vulnerable, supports families, and inspires future health leaders. We thank Governor Hochul for her vision, her leadership, and for shining a light on communities too often unseen.”
The hospital serves children ages five to 21 who meet OPWDD eligibility criteria requiring medical care alongside support services related to developmental disabilities. Patients receive inpatient treatment lasting up to six months that includes medical assessments as well as behavioral interventions intended to help them thrive at home or school.
The facility features classrooms; clinical spaces; sensory rooms; therapy gyms; café; training kitchen; outdoor walking trails; healing gardens; and greenhouse facilities supporting TCFD’s holistic approach.
After treatment concludes at this hospital, patients return home equipped with individualized plans developed during their stay—with ongoing expert support provided by TCFD professionals.
New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities Commissioner Willow Baer said: “Finding treatment in the appropriate setting can be difficult for children with developmental disabilities who also have complex medical needs. This new option for integrated care is a positive step towards health equity and we thank Governor Hochul for her continued investment in the lives of all New Yorkers.”
Senator Charles Schumer commented: “The new state-of-the-art Children’s Specialty Hospital at The Center for Discovery in Sullivan County will provide critical life-enhancing care to children and teens. I was proud to deliver historic federal investment so this new hospital can pave the way for a healthier future for vulnerable young patients… I was proud to work with Governor Hochul…to make this facility that started as a dream a reality…”
Senator Kirsten Gillibrand added: “While …Republicans…push policies that would devastate…Americans with disabilities…, I am proud that New York is standing up …I will continue fighting to secure funding that strengthens our health care system…”
State Senator Patricia Fahy said: “New York’s first children’s specialty hospital focusing on complex disabilities brings us even closer…This investment illustrates how new care models can help keep New Yorkers living with complex disabilities like autism in their homes…”
Assemblymember Angelo Santabarbara noted: “As Chair …and as father …with autism — I know how important it is …for children …complex needs….combining medical excellence,…will make real difference…”
Assemblymember Paula Kay remarked: “I was proud…to allow center …continue its good work at The Center…Their skilled care is nothing short of life-changing…”
Sullivan County Manager Josh Potosek said: “With opening …Children’s Specialty Hospital,…setting new standard…puts children & families first…”
The Center For Discovery provides services across Sullivan County on 1,500 acres including schools residences clinics farmland businesses offering employment opportunities.
