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THE JOURNEY TO COMMUNITY HOUSING WITH SUPPORTS
3UPPORTIVE (OUSING -ODEL Supportive Housing Model: Cynthia’s Home Cynthia spent many years in unstable living circumstances and high cost treatment centers including the state psychiatric hospital and shelter services. She has been homeless and lived with her parents intermittently during difficult times. Cynthia was diagnosed with serious mental illness and addictions since her late twenties. Due to her illness, Cynthia spent years in unstable housing and lived on the streets. Cynthia received a rental voucher from the Department of Human Services and promptly leased a one-bedroom apartment. She has resided there since 2008. Once her housing situation became stable, Cynthia discovered her talent and passion for art. She supplements her income modestly as an artist. Her income consists primarily of SSI benefits. Cynthia PAYS OF HER INCOME TOWARDS HER RENT AND THE VOUCHER subsidizes the balance of the fair market rent. Cynthia attends Alcoholics Anonymous meetings to keep sober and avoid drugs. She has reestablished her relationship with her mom and stepdad, who provide ongoing emotional support and guidance. She maintains contact with a therapist and utilizes services in the mental health system. Although she continues to experience symptoms of mental illness, her stable housing, participation in therapeutic mental health services and strong natural support system have assisted Cynthia to lead a happy life. BOARD AND CARE HOMES OR SINGLE ROOM OCCUPANCY LIVING ARRANGEMENTS are licensed in New Jersey by the Department of Community Affairs. A facility rents individual rooms and supplies three meals per day. Some facilities, Residential Healthcare Facilities, provide additional supportive services and physical care. For more information visit WWWNJGOVDCA DIVISIONSCODESOFlCESROOMINGBOARDINGHTML . While concern has been expressed by the substandard conditions in many rooming (room only, no meals provided) and boarding homes, families and individuals can research homes that are smaller and provide a nurturing environment. The Montclair Inn, for example, is a 21 bedroom boarding home with common space for tenants, owned and operated by a non-profit organization. The home is located within walking distance of the local town with access to transportation, shopping, jobs and socialization. Seniors and some individuals with disabilities live in the home. For more information visit WWWTHEMONTCLAIRINNORG .
COLLEGE CAMPUS - LIVING IN THE DORMS Some young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental illness and other special needs are attending colleges and living on campus. According to research studies, adults with intellectual disabilities have the lowest rate of post-secondary education, career preparation and employment of all other disability groups (Newman et al., 2011). Opportunities exist for people with disabilities, including those with intellectual disabilities, to attend flexible college programs with supports. Peer mentors are available to assist students in their adjustment to college life. Readily available apps on smart phones and tablets help a student to record lectures, dictate essays, take notes, complete assignments and organize coursework. Colleges offer classes for credit and not-for-credit. Numerous colleges provide on-campus living experiences as well. Besides the educational benefits, the value of a college experience includes preparation for employment, inclusion with peers, and independent living experiences. Only 23% of students with I/DD, however, go on to post-secondary education (Grigal, Hart, & Migliore, 2011). Most programs educate students between the ages of 18 and 25 during or after their graduation from high school. Fees for these educational studies vary. Students can apply for scholarships, grants and work/study. In some instances, tuition can be waived for students of low-income. Funding for supports, including transportation, books, technology and individual supports, might be supplied through Medicaid waiver services. In some instances, the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation may fund a college education. Similarly, a school district might approve post- secondary education through a teenager’s educational entitlement. For more information visit WWWTHINKCOLLEGENET .
College Campus Experience for Nicky Nicky walked with her high school class for graduation but continued her educational
entitlement in the local college. She lived on campus, learned, and adjusted to college life with supports. She made friends and enjoyed all the social and academic aspects of attending college. A fellow college student served as a mentor. Tutors helped with academics. She took courses in public speaking, drama, writing and math. In a drama class, Nicky role- played and learned how to interact in various interpersonal situations. Nicky used her smart phone to record classes so she could listen to them later and have someone assist her in taking notes. Tutoring was also available when course work was difficult. She dictated into her computer to write essays. Nicky enjoyed the experience of living away from home while attending classes in college.
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