Housing for Adults with Developmental Disabilities

by | Aug 1, 2024 | Special Needs | 0 comments

READ TIME: 7 MIN

 

There are many things to take into consideration when looking at housing options for our adult loved ones with developmental disabilities beyond how you are going to fund/pay for their housing. Housing for adults with disabilities has two other major components to consider, the actual housing (the structure) and the support services needed. This can be a lengthy process. There are various government and private resources out there to help you navigate this journey. Below are some organizations and programs that all combine to make housing work in our community. Locally here to Northern Virginia, The Arc of NOVA has a wonderful, extensive Housing Guide as well as staff to help point you in the right directions.

The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS)

The Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS) offers various services and support for individuals with developmental disabilities, including housing options. Their programs include:

  • Waiver Services: Medicaid waivers provide for the support services and sometimes the actual housing as well. These include the Community Living Waiver, Family and Individual Supports Waiver, and Building Independence Waiver, which provide funding for various support services, including residential support.
  • Housing Assistance: DBHDS works with local agencies to provide housing assistance and support to individuals with developmental disabilities. This may include rental assistance, home modifications, and other support to help individuals live independently. Attached you will find information on Rental Assistance and Transition Resources. The VHDA offers programs and resources aimed at increasing affordable housing options for individuals with disabilities. These include:

1. Rental Assistance Programs: VHDA administers the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8), which provides rental assistance to eligible low-income individuals, including those with disabilities.

2. Accessible Housing Resources: VHDA promotes accessible housing options and works with developers to create accessible units.

Community Service Boards (CSBs)

CSBs are local agencies that provide services and support for individuals with developmental disabilities. They offer a range of housing supports, including:

  • Residential Services: CSBs may provide group homes, supervised apartments, and supported living arrangements for individuals with developmental disabilities
  • Case Management: CSBs offer case management services to help individuals navigate housing resources and access appropriate services.
  • Link to Virginia Association of Community Service boards, Inc.

Centers for Independent Living (CILs) 

CILs are community-based organizations that provide support and advocacy for individuals with disabilities, including housing assistance. They offer:

  • Independent Living Skills Training: CILs provide training and support to help individuals with disabilities live independently.
  • Housing Advocacy: CILs advocate for accessible and affordable housing options and can assist with finding housing resources.
  • Link to Virginia Association of Centers for Independent Living.

Public Housing Authorities (PHAs)

PHAs administer public housing and housing choice voucher programs, providing affordable housing options for low-income individuals, including those with disabilities. Each locality has its own PHA that can provide information and assistance.

Non-Profit Organizations

Various non-profit organizations in Virginia focus on housing for individuals with developmental disabilities. Some notable ones include:

  • The Arc of Northern Virginia: Provides advocacy and support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including housing resources. Visit the Housing section of their Resource Library for more helpful information.
  • Virginia Housing and Supportive Services maintains a housing resource guide. Home (novahss.org) Northern Virginia Regional Implementation Team educates individuals, families and service providers about integrated, independent housing and new housing resources available.  Furthermore it prepares individuals with developmental disabilities to qualify for housing resources and helps them navigate the complexities of accessing rent subsidies and housing. Finally, the Northern Virginia RIT encourages the development of new rent assistance, housing and supportive services options
  • Community Housing Partners: Develops and manages affordable housing communities, some of which are designed to support individuals with disabilities.

Types of Housing Models

This section is taken from the Arc of Northern Virginia’s Housing Guide as referenced here.  It defines the different types of residential options funded by Medicaid Waiver.

One way to access a residential program is by utilizing the Community Living Waiver.  The Waiver funds several support options that are tied to a specific residence.  However, you may use other service options in the Family and Individual Supports Waiver, the Building Independence Waiver or the CCC Plus Waiver to get care provided in a variety of home settings.  We’ll explore this topic as we consider each type of housing.

  • Congregate Residential Supports.   Often called “group homes,” this support model is comprised of a home (including single family homes, condos, townhomes, etc.) where people with developmental or intellectual disabilities live together in a home operated by a provider in the community. These are often four to six person homes, though they can be a little smaller or a little larger. In these homes, staff typically rotate in and out on shifts and may be present in the home 24 hours a day.  Some providers have staff live in the home with the residents with disabilities.
  • Sponsored Residential Supports.  In this option, a person with a disability lives with a paid caregiver, usually in the home of the caregiver.  The caregiver could be a single person or a member of a family.   The individual supported in this home lives there full time and is treated as a member of the family.
  • Shared Living.  In this model, the individual lives with someone other than parents/grandparents who is reimbursed for room and board in exchange for companionship. Housing and services are not bundled in this model and can be used with the FIS and Building Independence Waivers.
  • Supported Living.  In this model, the residence is owned by a support provider that offers up to 24/7 help with support needs. This is a smaller setting than a group home.
  • Independent Living.  In the Independent Living model, supports are brought into the home that focus on skill building and preparing for greater independence. This is only supported with the Building Independence Waiver.

Visit The Arc of Northern Virginia – YouTube to see “virtual tours” of five area waiver housing options including group homes, sponsored residential, and a supported apartment and watch interviews of six people in independent housing, like apartments.

Other Resources

These resources and programs work together to provide support and housing options for developmentally disabled adults in Virginia. This list is not inclusive. If you know of a resource we should include, please share! We hope you find this information and links to resources useful. If you have questions or we can be of assistance, please reach out.  As always, we are here to help.

 

 

**The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. 

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