Residential Services
Charles River provides housing to adults with developmental
disabilities in Needham, Newton, Wellesley, Natick and other MetroWest
communities. Assistance varies from
intensive staffing for some residences to intermittent assistance for
individuals living in their own apartments.
Individuals are assisted with meal preparation, personal care and
hygiene, and social skill development.
All are encouraged to develop friendships in their neighborhoods and to
participate in community events.
Residential Living
The goal of Residential Living is to create warm, loving and safe homes for the individuals we serve.
Charles River currently manages 28 homes and apartments, each housing four to eight individuals, in the towns of Needham, Newton, Wellesley, Natick, Sharon, and Wayland.
In these homes, individuals are encouraged to make their own
decisions and choices, as well as develop friendships in their neighborhoods
and participate in community events and programs.
Planning and Assistance
One of the difficult decisions facing the family of an
individual with developmental disabilities concerns the issue of residential
placement. Charles River staff members
help families:
- Assess support needs
- Advise families on funding support and housing subsidies
- Guide families through the social and emotional transitions
The Residences
Each home managed by Charles River is safe and well maintained. Each home offers a variety of supports and supports tailored to meet the unique needs of each person served and is staffed by a program directors, supervisor and direct-care staff. Staff members assist individuals with:
- Meal preparation and nutrition
- Social and recreational activities
- Personal care and hygiene
- Social skill development
- Benefit processing
- Healthcare coordination and medication management
Staff members are certified in First Aid/CPR, Medication
Administration, fire safety, human rights, and self-determination. The ratio of direct-care staff members to
individuals is 1:2 or 1:4 in more independent homes.
Residents are encouraged to explore personal interests and
hobbies, establish community relationships and are supported in their ongoing
relationships with family members.
For more information on Residential Services contact Jennifer Fagan, Vice President, at 781-972-1010 or jfagan@charlesrivercenter.org.