The Arc of Somerset County's Family Support Program assists individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families in their efforts to remain together in their homes and communities. The home is typically the best environment for the individual so Family Support is often defined as "whatever it takes" to help an individual stay in his/her natural home. Family involvement and empowerment are crucial in determining the needs of the individual or family. Raising a child with an intellectual and developmental disability can challenge a family's ability to cope. Parents, siblings, caregivers and friends often feel overwhelmed. The Family Support staff works with the family to determine needs and assist with obtaining quality supports necessary to enhance the quality of life for the families and the individual with a disability.
Families are invited to visit The Arc's Family Support Center to discuss their unique needs, consult our resource files, network with families and related agencies.
We serve children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families with and without disabilities. For more information regarding any of our programs detailed below, please contact our Family Support Department at 908-725-8544, ext. 624.
Information and Referral Services help individuals finding additional services in or beyond the local community including:
-Referrals to general resource information and to a broad range of community programs
-Recreation, social and support groups
-Assistance with education, transition and future planning
-Referrals to sources of healthcare, therapy and equipment
-On-going workshops held at our Family Support Center
-Instruction on how to obtain services through Medicaid and the NJ Division of Developmental Disabilities
-Point of entry into all The Arc of Somerset County servicesKids' Night Out Program offers fun and entertainment to children with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their siblings. Children participate in recreation and craft activities while their parents enjoy an evening out. This is a Fee for Service activity and is offered on the third Friday of the month on a first come first serve basis with registration starting 30 days prior to the scheduled event. Check The Arc's events calendar for the next scheduled event.
Ask the Advocate Day is offered annually to families to discuss their child's Individualized Educational Program with the Arc of NJ's Education Advocate. This event is offered FREE to parents of children in the special education system. Parents are encouraged to attend and learn about their rights under the special education laws and how to become an effective educational advocate for their child. Check The Arc's events calendar for the next scheduled event.
Caregivers Day is offered annually in May to acknowledge and honor all our family members, neighbors, friends and paid caregivers. Through their compassion and love they make such a positive difference in the quality of life for others. This event is a free fun filled day of pampering, guest speakers, respite, and lunch.
'My Time' Sibling Group is offered quarterly and provides siblings of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, ages 8 to 12, an opportunity to connect with other siblings of children with disabilities and a time to have fun. The events include swimming, games, crafts and refreshments. This event is free and held at the Hillsborough YMCA. Registration in advance is required. The program is offered in January, April, July and October. Check The Arc's Event Calendar for the next scheduled event.
To qualify for the services detailed below, individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities must be found eligible by the New Jersey Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) and must be referred to The Arc of Somerset County by their Case Manager.
The In-Home Respite Voucher Program is a DDD (Department of Developmental Disabilities) funded reimbursement program supporting 44 families in Somerset County. The family member with a disability must be 6 years or older registered with the Department of Developmental Disabilities and referred to us by their Case Manager. In-Home Respite offers parents and care givers an opportunity to take time off from caring for their family member with a disability providing about 20 hours a month of support. The families have the flexibility to hire a provider of their choice. Families are then reimbursed for the provider's services. Please contact your case manager for further information.
After School/Work Program is designed to assist families with care needs after school or after an individual's day program. After school/work program provides individuals with a safe, fun place to go after school, while allowing parents to continue to work full time hours. Programs are available Monday through Friday from 3 pm until 6 pm. The After School Program is held at the Jerry Davis Center for Children and Families in Manville and supports children ages 5 to 21 years old. The After Work Program is available at our employment centers for adults 21 years and older. Please contact your case manager for further information.
Saturday Respite Program offers five hours of social and recreational activities for children ages 5 - 21 years. Families with children can often use a break on Saturdays. We offer an out of home respite service from 10 am - 3 pm where children with special needs have the opportunity to participate in activities that are structured and designed to improve social skills. Please contact your case manager for further information.
