Putnam Associated Resource Centers

Established in 1921, the Shield Institute is a nonprofit organization that provides educational, clinical and family support services to more than 1,700 infants, children, adults and their families throughout New York City. It serves people with autism and other developmental disabilities. The organization is affiliated with the Jewish Board of Family and Children's Services. The Shield Institute offers a day care program that develops skills and abilities to promote cognitive, emotional, physical and social growth. It also offers a preschool special education program that includes multidisciplinary evaluations and related services to children between the ages of 3 and 5 in a child-focused classroom setting. In addition, the program includes classes that provide opportunities to learn and play with typically developing children. The institute is located in Bronx, N.Y.

Ulster County Department of Social Services specializes in welfare services for children and adults. The department offers day care, child support, and financial and medical assistance services. It has a coordinated children's services program that specializes in respite care, psychiatric assessment and treatment, and individual and family therapies. It provides food stamps and foster care and preventive services. Ulster County Department of Social Services conducts investigations in the cases of domestic and family violence and physical and sexual abuse. The department also offers early intervention and special education programs to students with learning disabilities. In addition, it provides personal and health care services for adults and senior citizens. The department offers protective services to adults with physical and mental disabilities. Ulster County Department of Social Services is headquartered in Kingston, N.Y.