Helping individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
lead richer, fuller lives.
OUR MISSION
The mission of Children’s Aid and Family Services’ Disability Support Services is to build and promote access to a wide platform of support services for individuals across a diverse spectrum of abilities, specialized needs and communities.
OUR HOMES
Children’s Aid and Family Services opened its first group home in 2012. Our homes serve adults ages 21 and older (two homes for children under 21) and are located in safe, attractive residential areas throughout Bergen and Passaic Counties. Residents each have their own bedroom, which are beautifully decorated to reflect their individual preferences. The homes feature community rooms and sensory equipment, providing residents with plentiful opportunities to socialize in a safe, supportive and enriching environment. Environmental modifications (such as wheelchair access) are made, as necessary, to accommodate the specific needs of the residents.
Helping individuals with intellectual and development disabilities lead richer, fuller lives.
OUR MISSION
The mission of Children’s Aid and Family Services’ Disability Support Services is to build and promote access to a wide platform of support services for individuals across a diverse spectrum of abilities, specialized needs and communities.
OUR HOMES
Children’s Aid and Family Services opened its first group home in 2012. Our homes serve adults ages 21 and older (two homes for children under 21) and are located in safe, attractive residential areas throughout Bergen and Passaic Counties. Residents each have their own bedroom, which are beautifully decorated to reflect their individual preferences. The homes feature community rooms and sensory equipment, providing residents with plentiful opportunities to socialize in a safe, supportive and enriching environment. Environmental modifications (such as wheelchair access) are made, as necessary, to accommodate the specific needs of the residents.
BEHAVIORAL AND MENTAL HEALTH SUPPORTS
Our residents make remarkable progress working with our dedicated staff, including Behavioral Support Specialists, who help to create and implement an individual care plan for each resident. Self-care, socialization with peers and life skills are the cornerstones of our program. Residents have household responsibilities based on their interests and abilities to encourage independence. Residents thrive amongst their peers, participate in a variety of recreational activities and become active members of their local community.
Our Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), provide person-centered care to the residents. DSPs work on emphasizing personal choice, assisting individuals with daily tasks and helping them to become more integrated in their communities. They also work with individuals to implement care plans, to promote educational and career goals, and to advance skill development and socialization. The Direct Support Professionals staff are trained in CPR/First Aid, Medication Administration, Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation, Positive Behavior Supports, Mental Health Supports and program specific training.
OUR RESIDENTS
We understand any transition can be difficult for our new residents and their families. We do find that after a short time in our homes, our residents often can be found greeting our visitors with a smile, setting the table for dinner and joyfully participating in activities in the community. Our residents volunteer at the library, zoo, local establishments, go grocery shopping, eat at restaurants, visit parks and museums and much more. We at Children’s Aid and Family Services believe all residents should be empowered to successfully achieve their fullest potential.
What our Residents are Saying…
“I like living at the group home because I go to the mall and the movies. I do a lot of activities and I can use my computer.”
“I like my housemates. I have fun at our barbeques. I go to the nail salon. I like doing my chores because I feel independent.”
“I like the guys I live with. I go out a lot to eat, shop and to the movies. I decorated my own room. I volunteer.”
OUR FAMILIES
We understand it can be overwhelming for families to support their loved ones with special needs. In some cases, residing in the family home may not be possible or the best option for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We are here to help during this process and can answer any questions you and your family may have.
What Our Families are Saying…
“Thank you for helping us improve the quality of our family life.”
“Thank you from the bottom of our hearts Children’s Aid. Danny has adjusted so beautifully!”
“It was overwhelming, trying to care for my autistic son and my other children. But the staff at Children’s Aid and Family Services took the time to get to know us. The services have been a godsend.”
“We are extremely thankful for the support and services that Children’s Aid has provided to William. Since he moved into the community home, the staff has done a remarkable job in improving his overall quality of life.”
Children’s Aid and Family services is a state authorized service provider with the NJ Department of Human Services, Division of Developmental Disabilities and NJ Department of Children and Families. For more information on any of the services for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities please contact Melinda Iannarone-Geraghty. mIannarone@cafsnj.org
Active Members of the Community
Part of the Children’s Aid Family
