LifeSharing Through Family Living

Lifesharing is a program that enables an individual with a disability to join a provider family or a companion, in their private home, as a fully participating member of that family.

Lifesharing is more than providing the basics such as food and shelter. It is about sharing life experiences, and building mutual relationships and responsibility. The relationship between the provider and individual is meant to be enduring.

• What Are The Requirements To Be A Provider?
• How Does the Process Start?
• How Are Providers Paid?
• How Can I Get More Information?
• What We Hear About Lifesharing

What Are The Requirements To Be A Provider?

Enjoying people and being willing to share and help others are the most important skills for a provider. Our providers are very diverse and include single adults, single parents, two-parent families with children, and "empty-nest" families. No special experience is needed to become a provider; training and support are provided by the staff of the Barber National Institute.

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How Does the Process Start?

The potential providers and the individual are carefully interviewed, then matched to ensure they have compatible interests and personalities. The Lifesharing Specialist will then arrange supervised visits to introduce the individual to the provider’s home and family. You will slowly progress, developing a relationship, until all parties feel comfortable with the move into your home.

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How Are Providers Paid?

Providers receive a monthly stipend, which is federally tax-exempt, to cover service and room/board. The individual’s income and benefits cover their own medical expenses and personal purchases. Additional support services are available based on the individual’s needs.

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How Can I Get More Information?

Lifesharing is a wonderful program that enriches the lives of all involved! If you would like more information, please contact Jere Paolini at (215) 871-0731.

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What We Hear About Lifesharing:

"For people who have been in placement their whole lives, getting to be part of a family gives you more than you ever expected. Being in family living, I learned a lot of things I never knew I could do. It's good to be part of a family."
~ Kim Fisher, LifeSharing participant

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