How did we get there?
In a heart-wrenching story that gripped the hearts of local Philadelphia residents and the nation, the “Boy in the Box” finally had a name: Joseph Augustus Zarelli. The case had grown cold for close to 70 years.
In 1957, a young boy was found in a wooded area wrapped in a box. Not like a Christmas present. More like something discarded. Tossed out.
It took decades of detective work, major advances in DNA technology and genealogy to finally figure out who this child was.
Almost 70 years.
70 years of a life snuffed out.
70 years of numerous detectives and scientists trying to crack the case.
70 years of wondering how this could happen to a child.
Stepping back in time
While this box was found in the 50s, it was 20 years later, in the 70s, when institutionalization of individuals with disabilities would finally come to an end. Prior to that time, disabilities were seen as nothing more than a disease and an uncomfortable inconvenience to be dealt with behind the locked doors of an institution.
The infamous Pennhurst State Institution operated in Pennsylvania for many years. It took an investigative journalist to shine a light into the abhorrent conditions that children and adults with disabilities were subjected to.
There were no boxes.
There were cages.
Showing compassion
For modern-day parents with children with disabilities or on the autism spectrum, you know the daily reality of caring for your most precious little one. Things have come a long way since the 50s and 70s, but it’s still hard.
Let’s imagine a parent from back then without the support infrastructure (even as thin as it is sometimes) that we have now. What are they to do with a child who is … different. The bundle of joy has quickly turned into a “nightmare” trying to figure out how to care for and support a child with disabilities – with no resources.
The question persists today, who takes care of the caretakers?
Moving forward
In 1974, a mother’s compassion for her son, moved her to create a safe and nurturing space to cater to his disabilities. Yes, cater. Disabilities are not an inconvenience. They are to be catered to. The individual’s dignity is to be preserved. After all, we’re all human.
This safe and nurturing space has been operating for close to 50 years as KenCCID. Families entrust KenCCID with their loved ones knowing our vision to ensure that the rights, safety and well-being of the Individuals are protected and observed at all times.
KenCCID’s mission is focused on 3 primary areas:
- Housing to provide a safe and nurturing environment for our residents
- Medical care focused on enhancing the quality of life
- Job support to foster independent living
Our Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) and Community House Managers (CHMs) enable KenCCID to provide housing for the full spectrum of care from independent living to 24-hour nursing support. Because of KenCCID, individuals with disabilities don’t struggle with housing insecurity and are able to venture out into the community to fully participate in various art, music, dining, and other cultural events that add value to their lives.
Our nursing staff work tirelessly to ensure our individuals with disabilities have their medical needs met and can make their doctor’s appointments.
Earning a living is important to all of us, even more so to individuals with disabilities. KenCCID is grateful to be in partnership with many employers within the Philadelphia community who ensure that individuals with disabilities can earn a living.
While our hearts remain broken by the tragedy of the “Boy in the Box”, we understand the realities of caring for individuals with disabilities.
That’s all we do.