Regional Centers: Residential Options Explained

Regional Centers: Residential Options Explained

To support adults with developmental disabilities, the California Department of Developmental Services (“DDS”) offers a range of residential options. With such a broad range of residential services available, DDS makes it possible for each individual to secure the residence that works best for them.

DDS Residential Options

DDS residential services and facilities include:

  • Residential Facilities for People with Special Healthcare Needs: full time housing with immediate access to medical providers. Specifically, this residence option is for the most medically at-risk individuals.
  • Affordable Housing: this option is for those who would prefer to live in the community rather than a full-time residential facility. typically, those receiving this type of housing are able to have a portion of their living expenses subsidized by DDS.
  • Community Care Facilities (“CCFs”): these provide 24-hour, non-medical residential care for adults with developmental disabilities. In general, CCFs offer around-the-clock support with activities of daiy living. More specifically, CCFs also provide a range of personal services, supervision, self-protection assistance.
  • Family Home Agency (“FHA”): this program allows up to two DDS participants to live in a family home where they share in the responsibilities of the household. Through the FHA program, DDS approves and monitors family homes.
  • Foster Family Agency: through this program individuals with developmental disabilities up to the age of 18 can live in state-approved foster family homes.
  • Independent Living Program: these homes allow individuals to live on their own with ongoing support and services to ensure they succeed.
  • Intermediate Care Facilities (“ICFs”): ICFs are state licensed and supervised facilities that provide around the clock residential services.
  • State-Operated Developmental Centers and Community Facilities: these facilities are run directly by DDS, rather than contracted out to private care providers. DDS benefit recipients can access a range of services, including residential services.
  • Supported Living Services: rather than providing housing directly, supported Living Services is the means through which the DDS provides a range of support to developmentally disabled adults who choose to live in homes they themselves own or lease.

To determine which residential service is best for you, consult your regional care center.