Who We Are

Haley's Story

Haley's mother came to Advocates for Children of New York (AFC) when Haley was four years old and preparing for kindergarten.  Haley was diagnosed with cerebral palsy, global developmental delays, and a seizure disorder.  She was unable to walk independently, and it was widely believed that she never would.

Haley’s mother was very concerned that Haley’s kindergarten placement would not promote her physical development.  The classroom did not have space for Haley to practice moving around with her walker, did not have rugs for her to work on her crawling, and did not have the equipment she needed to help her learn how to sit and to stand.  The Department of Education had also reduced Haley’s physical therapy recommendation with no justification.  With AFC’s help, Haley was able to enroll in a school that specializes in serving children with needs like hers and to receive additional physical therapy.

Two years later, we were overjoyed to receive the following note from Haley’s mother:

“Most recently we celebrated Haley's very first steps.  I wanted to take this opportunity to thank you for all you have done to contribute to this miraculous moment.  What you do has made this possible!”