Family Support Program

The Family Support Center at Lifeworks offers a wide range of general family support services and activities to families of children and adults who are eligible for DDS services and living at home with their families.

familysupport@lifeworksarc.org

PROGRAM MISSION

  • Build collaborative partnerships with families, friends, and communities
  • Ensure a continuum of person-centered supports and choices
  • Advocate for the protection of human and civil rights
  • Develop and retain exceptional, supportive staff
  • Provide visionary leadership that is actively engaged in defining future standards of supports
  • Sustain sound stewardship to advance mission, financial, and organizational integrity

SERVICES OFFERED

Assistance to families identifying resources and service options available in their local communities, eligibility for other financial and/or state services and guidance on navigating the human service system. We offer an extensive resource library and access to the Internet. Family Support uses a variety of tools to update and inform families including Facebook , website links and other state-of-the-art technology.

Families referred to us by The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) may be eligible to receive some funding to help supplement the expenses related to their family member with ID/DD, to include respite care, health and safety, and therapeutic needs. The DDS application can be found HERE.

Contracted Family Navigation Agency to provide this grant funded program to school aged children who have been assessed by The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) and found eligible for the program. The DESE/DDS program aims to provide an increased level of in-home and community based supports to students to help prevent a more restrictive placement. Funding is subject to annual appropriation.

Coordination of educational events and training on relevant topics of interest to families and individuals with developmental disabilities. We also provide periodic individual consultation with educational advocates, financial planners and other professionals specializing in services families and individuals with special needs.

Collaboration with local and community resources to promote community inclusion and maximize service affiliations. These include but are not limited to Recreation Departments, YMCAs, Jewish Community Centers, local companies and vendors.

Facilitation of support groups for family members, as well as opportunities for parent involvement in programs and services. For example, The Lifeworks Family Support Advisory Committee consists of parents donating their time to consult and advocate for additional services and improved programs.

Comprehensive and individualized information, guidance and support to families to address health, behavioral and specialized needs, connect to potential resources and assist with utilizing the Human Service systems.

Assistance with identifying an experienced respite care provider to offer the primary caregiver a break from the day to day challenges of full time care of a child or adult with special needs. (Funding is based on DDS priority of need guidelines and available budget resources).

Contact Us

Call us 781-762-4001 or fill Out the form below for More Information

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