In Home Support
Independence Association provides in-home support services to children (3-20), aimed at increasing self-help skills, addressing behavior challenges, increasing social skills and helping with other areas identified by the child and family team. These services are provided by support staff, in the family home or community settings and are based on individualized plans.
The In-Home Support Program is a Maine Care funded program administered by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS).
The Independence Association has a program operation philosophy that guides operation of the In-Home Support Program for children.
Our philosophy is family-centered, and value oriented. We approach each individual holistically and support each person to achieve their full potential. Our supports are individually centered and aim to continuously improve the quality of each individual’s life.
We believe the quality of Independence Association program delivery is ultimately the result of the family centered values held by direct care staff and our organization. Training is offered to staff that promotes values of individual choice, community inclusion, and person-centered planning.
The agency strives to maintain consistent, hopeful, compassionate and empathetic relationships with the individuals we support.
Behavioral Health Professional Certification to staff qualifications.
We focus on increasing independence through socialization, behavior and life skills development.
Children’s Referrals
Referrals for the Children’s In-Home Support Program are received through the Central Enrollment Process of the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Children’s Behavioral Health Division. Parents complete an enrollment packet with the support of their Case Manager or a Department Representative. DHHS is responsible for eligibility determination. Children referred for-in home services are then matched to Independence Association based on need, geographic location and the agency’s ability to provide support. For additional information on Central Enrollment please contact your Case Manager or your Regional DHHS office.
Intake
Once a “match” has been made, the child and family team will meet to complete the initial plan and to identify goals and objectives.
The Team consists of:
Parent or guardians
Community Case Manager
In-home Support Program Manager
Child whenever possible
And any other individual who the family would like to have present
Adult Referrals:
Adult referrals may be made directly to the agency by any referral source. Eligibility is determined by DHHS.
Eligibility
Services are available to children and adults who are Medicaid eligible and have a diagnosis of Cognitive impairment, functional skills impairment, and developemental disability or Autism.
Related Services
In addition to In-Home Support Services, there are numerous other services available to individuals with special needs and their families. These services include but are not limited to respite, family and individual therapy, Case Management, medical services, parent support groups, and employment and educational supports. To receive additional information on these or other services call your regional office of the Department of Health and Human Services at the numbers listed below.
Region I (York and Cumberland Counties)
1-800-482-7520
Region II (Androscoggin, Franklin, Kennebec, Knox, Lincoln, Sagadahoc, Somerset and Waldo Counties)
1-800-482-7517
Region III (Aroostook, Hancock,Penobscot, Piscatiquis, and Washington)
1-800-963-9491