Respite
Find respite that actually fits
Respite in NY isn't one thing — it's nine different pathways depending on age, eligibility, and how fast you need it. Pick the right door.
Emergency respite
Short-notice respite for a crisis — usually 24-72 hours.
Typical wait: Same day to 5 days, depending on county capacity.
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Planned overnight respite
Scheduled overnight stays at a certified respite house.
Typical wait: 2–8 weeks for first stay; recurring after that.
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In-home respite
A trained staffer comes to your home so you can step away.
Typical wait: 1–6 weeks to onboard a staffer.
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Weekend respite
Friday-to-Sunday stays at provider sites — popular and waitlisted.
Typical wait: Often 4–12 weeks per slot. Book the next 3 weekends at once.
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After-school & recreation respite
Programs that double as respite — Saturday recs, sports, arts, social clubs.
Typical wait: Rolling — register early in the season.
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Camp respite
Day and overnight summer camps for kids and adults with disabilities.
Typical wait: Apply 4–8 months in advance.
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Caregiver-directed respite
Funds the caregiver controls — you hire someone you trust.
Typical wait: Application 2–6 weeks; ongoing once approved.
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Foster / adoptive respite
Respite for foster and adoptive families, especially for kids with special needs.
Typical wait: 2–8 weeks.
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Adult respite
Respite for adults with developmental disabilities living with aging parents.
Typical wait: 4–12 weeks.
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