These are some of the most common questions people ask about our programs.
What are the qualifications for my loved one to attend the IndependenceWorks day program?
Qualifications:
- 18 years or older with a qualifying I/DD diagnosis
- Mild to Moderate Disability
- Willing and able to participate in the community safely
- Willing and able to be supported in a 1:6 group
- Desire to attend our services and be with peers in a lively environment
What type of payment is accepted for day program services?
We accept Medicaid COMP/Now funding, Family Support Services, or Private Pay for full time or part time attendance.
How do I get the Comp/NOW Waiver for my loved one?
An application must be submitted to the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities on behalf of your loved one. Find more information here: https://dbhdd.georgia.gov/be-dbhdd/be-compassionate/how-do-i-apply-dd-services
What are the qualifications for your residential services?
- Documented diagnosis (by a licensed professional) of an Intellectual and/or Developmental Disability or a disability with a need for similar services
- Disability acquired before age of 22
- Minimum age of 18 years old
- For Community Living Support (CLS) or Community Residential Alternative (CRA) services, ability to receive support within scope of ZH-ILP’s Private Home Care license or CRA license
- For our licensed CRA group homes, COMP/NOW Waiver funding is required
Our Registered Nurse provides health-related oversight, manages health and medical needs and serves as a key liaison with the individuals’ primary care physicians (PCP) and other health practitioners. Our residential services are not able to accept individuals who have the following medical needs:
- Tube feeding by JF&CS staff
- Insulin administration
- Intravenous and intramuscular injections
- Central line maintenance
- Peripheral line maintenance
Is there a waiting list for your residential services?
We have a wait pool policy that prioritizes openings based on a process of matching “fit and appropriateness” based on existing residents and potential new residents. Roommate matching is very important to us for the success, comfort and well-being of all residents. This process incorporates the needs, likes, dislikes and preferences of the new potential resident in balance with the needs, likes, dislikes and preferences of the existing group who call each home their own. This complex housemate matching process, along with the overall diagnostic profile of the residents is cross-referenced to our staffing capacity and healthcare capabilities.
Are there educational activities at your IndependenceWORKS day program?
Oh yes! Our regular programming includes group lesson activities with topics chosen by clients and staff, opportunities for clients to teach their friends about topics they have interest in, and we invite community members to our program to share their expertise on a variety of topics.
We offer frequent opportunities for our clients to get out into the community. During these trips, clients work on their personal goals, build relationships in the community, support one another, and have fun.
What is the ratio of client to staff at the day program?
The typical ratio of client to staff at the day program is 5 or 6 clients to 1 staff member. We at JF&CS are looking for participants who enjoy activities in a group setting.
Does JF&CS provide transportation for clients going to and from the Day program?
JF&CS does not provide transportation to or from Day Program for clients that live with family or in their own home. For those who live in our group homes, transportation is provided to and from day programs, work and for other personal or group needs and activities.
What is a Host Home?
A Host Home is a family home in which the head of household has welcomed an individual with an intellectual or developmental disability to live in their home. The Host Home Provider supports the individual in their daily life, helps them work toward their goals and provides transportation to and from day programs and/or work.
The Host Home Provider goes through a rigorous background check process with our agency and is contracted to provide support to your loved one living in their own home. JF&CS monitors the services provided and works closely with the Host Home Provider to ensure all your loved one’s needs are met.