Lifesharing through Family Living

Lifesharing through Family Living enables an individual with intellectual disabilities to join a provider family or a companion in their private home as a member of that family. Becoming a Lifesharing family with a person with disabilities, who may or may not be biologically related, means opening one's home and heart to someone who desires to live in a shared, supportive family environment.

Lifesharing programs are more than providing the basics such as food and shelter. It is about sharing life experiences in a mutually beneficial and enduring relationship.

Benefits of Lifesharing

• Less restrictive, more individual-based residential service than community home services with 24/7 support from Barber National Institute staff
• Being a part of a family in a caring, committed home
• Stability and continuity in one's life
• Increased commuinty involvement
• Developing relationships and friendships
• Providers specifically trained on the individual's dianosis, needs, strengths and interests

Biological family involvement: 

• Varies depending on the family's and individual's desires and family dynamics
• The provider family is not meant to replace the biological family but to serve as an extension of the family

What are the requirements to be a Lifesharing 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 Lifesharing program provider in Philadelphia, PA; training and support are provided by the staff of Barber National Institute.

What will the individual be like?

While individuals with intellectual disabilities may learn more slowly than others, they have the same dreams of independence, friendship and fulfillment. They can also give back love and be a contributing member to family and community. Many of the individuals are currently residing in residential community homes and have expressed a desire to live as part of a family.

Will I have help?

Yes! A Lifesharing Specialist is always available 24/7 to give support, answer questions you may have and assist in coordination of:

• behavioral support
• speech/communication assistance
• other supports for the individual

How does the Lifesharing 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 your home and family. You will slowly progress, developing a relationship, until all parties feel comfortable with the move into your home.