Family Home Agencies - Adult Foster care

A Family Home Agency, a nonprofit vendorized by a Regional Center, approves family homes which offer the opportunity for up to two adult individuals with relatively mild developmental disabilities to reside with a family and share in the interaction and responsibilities of being part of a family. The family home arrangement allows the sharing of food, shelter, experience, responsibilities and love. FHAs are responsible for recruiting, training, approving and monitoring family homes. Social service staff employed by the FHA make regular visits to the family home to ensure that necessary services and supports are in place, and that the match between the family and the new family member is viable, and continues to be viable.


FHA and family home services and supports are a new option which enables adults with developmental disabilities to enter into partnerships with families that promote self-determination and interdependence.

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PROS:

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• Takes advantage of existing real estate, possibility of nurturing and supportive home environment close to the client’s family, which can continue sharing in the care for the adult child.

CONS:

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• Very limited supply; potential for burnout for foster caregivers if adult clients have ongoing behavior challenges;
• No staff and little training;
• Only appropriate for ASD adults needing minimal supports (those with aggression or who damage property are not eligible for FHA).

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