About our Housing
Autism Communities is committed to fostering inclusive living environments for neurodiverse individuals. In response to the community on Long Island, earlier this year we expanded our housing support to include both individuals with autism and/or intellectual developmental disabilities.
Our housing model is based on a partnership not simply with the neurodiverse adult seeking
housing, but also with the family and circle of support. The active engagement and
participation of the entire family and support system is a critical component of our longevity
and success.
As we work into the future, our goal is to develop a sustainable housing model, which will
provide the support needed for these adults to maintain their housing after their primary
caregivers are no longer able to do so.
Housing Criteria
In our commitment to identifying candidates for housing, Autism Communities has implemented a structured process. This process helps individuals and their circles of support navigate the necessary steps, as well as provide recommendations to qualify for housing through our program. Emphasizing individualized support, we prioritize the safety and success of potential residents. The duration of the candidate evaluation process varies depending on the individual. To guide this process effectively, we have established criteria aimed to identifying viable housing candidates.
- Must be between the age of 20-35 to apply. Our residents have the opportunity to maintain their housing through Autism Communities beyond the age of 35. Exceptions to the age requirement may be considered on a case-by-case basis
- Autism and/or other Intellectual Development Disability diagnosis
- New York State Resident
- Applying candidates must be self-directed through New York State OPWDD through the Developmental Disabilities Regional 5 Office (DDRO). Candidates outside of DDRO 5 interested in housing with Autism Communities must be willing to switch regional office
- Candidate must be established in self-direction for 6 months prior to applying
- Must have in place a Fiscal Intermediary, Self-Direction Broker and Care Manager
- Willing to consider support recommendations for independent living - such as: Direct Support Staff; Paid Neighbor; and Apartment Technology
- Candidates must not be considered medically frail or have significant behavioral and/or violent tendencies
- Candidates must undergo a background check at their own expense, approximately $250. This is the final step of the process before being approved for housing
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