Unlicensed Lifesharing

What is Unlicensed Lifesharing?

Families are now able to serve as Lifesharing providers for a family member with an intellectual disability. Families qualifying for Unlicensed Lifesharing will receive a stipend twice a month.  The amount of the stipend may vary depending on the adult’s level of need.

Lifesharing may be the preferred option:

• When families want to keep a loved one at home but could benefit from additional financial support.
• When families prefer a family home in place of a group home.
• For families receiving Autism Waiver funding.

For Unlicensed Lifesharing, qualifying family members include:

• Parents & Stepparents
• Stepchild
• Grandparent
• Grandchild
• Siblings or half-brother/half-sister
• Aunt, uncle, niece or nephew

Lifesharing families do not undergo licensing inspections to meet state regulations, but they must receive annual trainings. 

All Lifesharing families area assisted by a Program Specialist to help manage services.

Before selecting Unlicensed Lifesharing, families should understand:

• The adult will no longer be eligible for services through Agency With Choice. Adults can, however, continue to receive adult day services, supported employment, etc.
• The adult will still be able to use waiver funding for camps or similar expenses.
• The adult will continue to receive social security benefits; in accordance with federal law, a small portion of these funds will be used for Lifesharing room and board.

How Can I Get More Information?

Learn more about Unlicensed Lifesharing and how it can benefit your family. Contact Cassandra Pilarski, Lifesharing specialist, at (814) 878-4115.    

Contact Us in Erie