Respite Care

What is respite care?

Respite services are defined as a temporary break or relief from child care responsibilities, often called a "gift of time."  They are provided to assist eligible families as they work to meet the demands of caring for these individuals in their home.  Respite services can occur in a variety of settings, both in the home and out of the home -- depending on the needs of the family and available resources.

Through the program families are matched with trained respite providers or may use family friends.  Respite helps preserve the family unit, promotes family stability, and prevents out- of- home placements.

Eligibility Requirements

Individuals receiving respite services must meet all of the following requirements:

1. Be a resident of Newaygo County
2. Meet the state of definition of developmental disability, severe emotional disturbance (birth to age 18 years), or severe medical impairment (birth to age 18 years).
3. Live in the family home
4. Need respite services to maintain the special needs individual in the family home.

Care-giver training

Respite care-givers are trained to provide for the specific needs of individuals with disabilities.  Training is offered through programs designed with an overview of all aspects of care involving individuals with disabilities.

Respite providers

All providers will be evaluated by Newaygo County Mental Health.  Program factors include:

• Completion of a provider application form to accurately describe areas of expertise.
• A criminal background assessment and child abuse registry check
• An individual interview by the respite care coordinator
• The respite care coordinator will assist in matching providers with families who will request respite care services.
• Providers will communicate regularly with the respite care coordinator
• Payment for respite services will be provided by families receiving services
• Families will be reimbursed for respite services

Program cost

Respite care eligibility will be determined by the respite care coordinator.  Allocation of available respite resources is based on economic need and a review of service requirements.  Inquiries may be directed to the respite care coordinator.

 

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