By the late l970s, the critical need for residential programs for developmentally disabled children was apparent, and Cardinal Hayes Home began the gradual transition to serving these young people. In the l980s, several Community Intermediate Care Facili­ties (ICFs) were opened in Dutchess County, and the main residence in Millbrook was enlarged and extensively reno­vated. Three new one-story homes were built on the Millbrook campus in 1998, specifically designed to meet the needs of severely disabled young people. There are currently 95 children and young adults in these residential programs.
 

In l984, Cardinal Hayes School for Special Children was es­tab­lished, providing continuity of programming for the children at CHH and also serving special needs children residing in the area. The school is situated on several wooded acres at the eastern end of the Village of Millbrook in a building designed to serve the educational needs of students who are handicapped.
 

In all its programs, Cardinal Hayes Home upholds the philosophy so lovingly established by the Sisters in l94l: "Aware of God's deep compassion for the sick and suffering, we use our talents, confident that He is with us and no effort will be lost. We bring strength to each other by our mutual support and affirmation."