There are many services and programs available for the child with disabilities or special needs. Many of the services available for individuals under the age of 18 stop upon turning 18. While most individuals with special needs continue to live with their parents, at some point in time that will not longer be feasible. Options depend on the individual’s mental and functional abilities. There are programs that incorporate housing with life skills programs to ready an individual for some level of independent living. Once the individual reaches ate 18, they become eligible for SSDI, social security disability insurance. The types of housing available are:
Section 8 Housing: A voucher program by the Dept. of Housing and Urban Development is a program for assisting very low income families, the elderly, and the disabled to afford decent, save and sanitary housing in the private market. http://portal.hud.gov/hudportal/HUD?src=/topics/housing_choice_voucher_program_section_8
Clinical residential treatment center: An on premises professional treatment center that focuses on self-esteem, develop relationships and improve skills. It offers a sense of community.
Group residential communities: Often referred to a “group homes” is designed as a family type setting, where several people live together with a counselor or facilitator. It enhances self-esteem, build skills, and learn to develop relationships. Clinical treatment is optional.
Apartment-based-communities: Residents have individual or shared apartments and participate in therapeutic activities. Supportive and therapeutic activities are incorporated.
Ranch or Farm-based and work-based residential programs: Residents live together and build relationships while participating in daily work programs.
Funding: government assisted in some cases, foundational support, funding from ABLE bill funds, special needs trusts.