Living With Us: Questions and Answers

I. Who is eligible for Rainbow Homes services?
Admission is based upon the prospective resident’s ability to meet the following criteria:

• Individuals with developmental disabilities, mental illness or other related disabilities
• Eighteen years of age or older
• Must not require continuous 24 hr supervision; staff are available via cell phone when off grounds. There is always someone on grounds at night.
• Must have current immunizations and updated Hepatitis screening.
• Must be ambulatory.
• Ability to function at a high enough cognitive level to express his/her needs, understand oral communication, follow instructions and demonstrate basic safety skills.
• Ability to comply with the House Rules
• Ability to perform activities of daily living (bathing, toileting, eating, dressing) with minimal supervision and assistance
• Is motivated to become more independent and demonstrate some self-direction
• Ability to participate in various social activities without direct supervision
• Ability to control sexual behavior appropriately
• Ability to manage his/her anger and aggressive behavior so as not to be destructive toward oneself, others, and/or property. In addition does not exhibit behavior the requires isolation or restraint.
• Demonstration of good health

II. How do I or someone I love become a resident?
In an effort to assure that each "new resident applicant" is admitted to the Rainbow Homes in a fair, consistent, and equitable manner, the following procedural steps are taken:

1. A request for application and an initial interview
2. Completion of pertinent paperwork and review of policies
3. Program Administrator will review materials and interview "potential resident" if applicant Rainbow Homes can meet the needs of the applicant
4. Completion of several dinner visits and a weekend visit
5. Determination.

III. I just need a break from caring for my loved one. Can the Rainbow Homes help?
In addition to permanent housing, Rainbow Homes provides temporary respite service on a short-term basis to provide family caregivers with short-term relief from the demands of caring for their child (18 years or older) or adult relative with a disability.

IV. Is the Rainbow Homes a licensed facility?
No. Typically, large homes are licensed for 13-20 residents depending on available space. The Rainbow Homes accommodates 13 residents and is considered assisted living and does not provide 24 hr care.

V. Can we bring our own belongings?
Yes, each resident should bring things to furnish their apartment so that they have all of the comforts of home. If a resident does not have furniture or other furnishings, effort is made to acquire items through community means.

VI. Can I have my own room?
Each individual has their own bedroom but share the rest of the apartment which includes a living/dining area, kitchen and bathroom with laundry facilities. There is additional attic storage as well.

VII. Do you accept SSI?
Yes, as well as SSA, SSDA and Chore services through the Department of Human Services. We also accept private payments. Effort is made to make sure each individual is receiving the maximum benefit allowed. We assist each person to apply for food stamps and explore other benefits which may be available.

VIII. What are some of the things I can be involved in?
Each individual is encouraged to explore a wide range of interests, hobbies and activities. Sports, lawn games, exercise and nature walks are encouraged for healthy living. Volunteering in areas of interest are available such as at the food bank, in schools, at churches, Great Lake Folk Festival to name a few. Day trips and Mystery trips are planned by individual residents with staff which have included U of M museum, Fredrick Meijer Garden and Lake Michigan. Additionally, assistance is offered for individualized hobbies and leisure time. Bible study, Art classes, pottery, bike repair, educational classes, crafts are just a few of the things people are involved in. Opportunities are available to attend concerts, plays and other community events.

IX. What will I do if I don't have a job?
Every effort is made to work with the individual and available agencies to find employment. In the interim, each person is assisted to find meaningful activity to engage in during the day which may include using the library, attending CACIL circle groups and volunteering.

X. What is a developmental disability?
According to the Michigan Mental Health Code MCL 330.1100 (20) "Developmental disability" means either of the following:

(A) If applied to an individual older than 5 years, a severe, chronic condition that meets all of the following requirements:

• Is attributable to a mental or physical impairment or a combination of mental and physical impairments.
• Is manifested before the individual is 22 years old.
• Is likely to continue indefinitely.
• Results in substantial functional limitations in 3 or more of the following areas of major life activity:
• Self-care.
• Receptive and expressive language.
• Learning.
• Mobility.
• Self-direction.
• Capacity for independent living.
• Economic self-sufficiency.
• Reflects the individual's need for a combination and sequence of special, interdisciplinary, or generic care, treatment, or other services that are of lifelong or extended duration and are individually planned and coordinated.

(B) If applied to a minor from birth to age 5, a substantial developmental delay or a specific congenital or acquired condition with a high probability of resulting in developmental disability as defined in subdivision (A) if services are not provided.