Shared Living is another residential option Downeast Horizons offers.  Shared Living is a residential alternative to living in a traditional supported living home.  The Shared Living option is a customized living arrangement designed to meet the needs of the supported individual.  Under this care model, the host provides the consumer with a room, board and general supervision as outlined in the person's Person Center Plan (PCP) in a family home.  Shared Living can meet the needs of adults who require periodic or regular assistance with activities of daily living, but do not require a supported living residential home.

Under this model, Downeast Horizons contracts with a “host” to provide a home for the individual.  The host is then supported and overseen by Downeast Horizons.  A host can be a single person or family.  Hosts may already be involved with the individual as a friend or even as a family member.

Eligibility for Services

An individual seeking residential support is eligible for this service if they meet the following criteria:

• Be 18 years of age or older and
• Has a diagnosis of a developmental or intellectual retardation
• Eligible for DHHS funding (MaineCare Section 21 waiver)

How to Become Host

Interested individuals or families can become a Shared Living Host by contacting Downeast Horizons.  An application packet will be sent to you.  The application packet will gather personal information to help us best match you with an individual.  Once all necessary paperwork is completed and returned to Downeast Horizons, an interview and a site visit at your home will be scheduled.

DEH will conduct driving, criminal and adult protective background checks, and require references. These checks are necessary to ensure the safety of the individuals supported.

To be a Shared Living Host, an individual must successfully pass a home inspection and have a spare bedroom.

For more information and an application, call 667-2400 ext. 11

Day Program:

Individuals residing in Shared Living homes may participate in any day program.  DEH offers day program opportunities in Bar Harbor, Ellsworth, Bangor and Deer Isle.

Transportation:

The host provides all necessary transportation.