Lifesharing Through Family Living

The Lifesharing program 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 programs are 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 the individual is meant to be enduring.

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 the Barber National Institute.

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 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.