In this interview with Lyn Horan, and Jessica Lebrón-Martínez, members of the Holyoke Commission on Disabilities, they look back at a groundbreaking 2-3 years of advocacy and outline a major milestone: securing the city’s first-ever dedicated budget for Fiscal Year 2026, backed by Mayor Garcia and the City Council.

Discover how this new funding is being strategically divided into four core areas to directly support residents with disabilities while working within local and state laws.

The conversation addressed:

The Fiscal Year 2026 Milestone.

What Holyoke’s first dedicated disabilities budget means for resource allocation and community support.

Education as a Tool.

A deep dive into the commission’s upcoming community survey, designed to educate the public and local government on vulnerability, independence, and the immense value of an inclusive society.

Breaking Barriers.

How the community survey is being built for maximum accessibility (available digitally, in hard copy, in both English and Spanish, and in large font).

Unlocking Future Funding.

How the data gathered from this survey will provide the vital statistics needed to win future grants for Holyoke.

As of June 1st, 2026, Lyn Horan has resigned as chair of the Commission, and Jessica Lebrón-Martínez has taken the chair position, as announced during the interview.

Recorded on May 29, 2026.