AVITA recruits host homes for adults with intellectual disabilities

HIAWASSEE, Ga. – AVITA Community Partners Regional Director Michelle Burgess, accompanied by Blarsville facilitator Carly Anderson, visited Towns County in hopes of recruiting host homes for adults with mental disabilities. Formed in 1993 through Georgia state legislature, AVITA Community Partners serves as a resource for individuals and families in northeast Georgia experiencing the disabling effects of mental illness, developmental disabilities, and addictive diseases. AVITA’s mission is to “assist in the development of safe, stable, meaningful lives for all.”

Burgess and Anderson explained the host home program for intellectually disabled adults.

“It’s kind of like foster homes for adults with intellectual abilities. It’s where they come into your home and live with you as part of your family and you get paid to do this,” Burgess said. The ample funding is primarily provided by the federal government. Becoming a host family typically requires training for a minimum of six months.

Host home families and individuals are matched according to similar lifestyles. The host homes receive monthly reviews to ensure the homes are safe and the needs of the individual are met. Host home families receive training in health and safety, implementation of service plans, and person-centered services.

“Some adults with development disabilities, who may have no nearby support of family to live with, find a place to call home thanks to the AVITA Host Program,” the organization’s website explains. “AVITA trains, screens, and contracts with families who treat our clients with love, respect, dignity while providing a long-term home and a secure environment.”

AVITA Community Partners assist approximately 13,000 adults, adolescents, and families across 13 counties in northeast Georgia.

For additional information on AVITA Community Partners, visit http://www.avitapartners.org/