Housing Opportunity

I am looking for families who are interested in joining other families to buy a house in which their moderately disabled older children (ages twenty and older) could live independently, with some support. Disabilities include learning disabilities, developmental disabilities, Asperger’s Syndrome, mental illness and traumatic brain injuries. The house would be privately owned by the families, meaning each family would invest $100,000 to $300,000, the exact amount dependent upon a house’s size, location, renovation needs, etc. In addition, families would share monthly payments covering mortgage, maintenance, and support expenses.

Four years ago, I visited a group in Boston which opened their first house in 1983, and which now has ten houses in operation. Two clinicians founded this group, and I would draw heavily on their expertise. In fact, once I’d gathered enough interested families, I would invite them to Chicago for informational meetings: they would explain how a house works, and parents and siblings would have an initial opportunity to ask questions. These meetings would take place over two days, and would cost $200 to $300 per family to cover expenses. No commitment would be asked for or expected: this would only be a time of exploration.

A few points which are uppermost in parents’ minds:

1. Their children would live with people who could become their friends. Great care would be taken to gather individuals who have the potential to mesh with each other. Of course each person has his or her own strengths and weaknesses, but the issue of compatibility is critical, and taken very seriously.
2. A house would usually have between four and nine residents.
3. Families would work together to choose a house’s location.
4. The amount of support provided would be determined by the amount needed.
5. A family’s share of a house could be sold at any time, the only stipulation being that it be sold to another person with moderate disabilities.

I am intrigued and excited by the possibility of this house. For families who are seeking a long-term supported living arrangement for their adult family member, such a house, privately owned and maintained, could be the answer to a prayer.

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