Keystone Community Mental Health Services

Caring Families: A Domiciliary Care Program

Program Requirements

In Search of Families

The challenges of aging, mild developmental disabilities or mental illness make it difficult for millions of Americans to live independently. Although these individuals do not qualify for formal assisted living, they do benefit from support in managing the basic mechanics and opportunities of everyday life.

This is where "Caring Families" makes all the difference. We're looking for compassionate people who are willing to welcome a new family member into their home for a few days, a few months, or even a lifetime. Sufficient compensation is provided for qualified families or individuals who wish to enrich another person's life as well as their own.

The Caring Families Program is a domiciliary program that matches individuals of diverse backgrounds with families who are well suited to each others values and lifestyles. For many men and women, being embraced by a family makes the difference between a lonely, compromised existence and a fulfilling life in the community.

How You Can Help

To qualify as a Caring Family, you must:

Be sensitive to the needs of others
Rent or own a home
Become certified in CPR/First Aid (we provide the training)
Provide a private bedroom in your home
Have homeowners insurance
Have a smoke detector
Undergo a fire and safety inspection annually
Not require this compensation to qualify for a mortgage
Not be related to the person receiving services

Each Participant Receives:

Emotional support
Nutritious meals
Access to laundry services
Assistance with personal care as needed
Assistance with medications as needed

Who Qualifies for Caring Family Support?

Participants must be:

Experiencing the effects of aging, mental illness or mental retardation
18 years of age or older
Unable to live alone
Experiencing difficulty with daily living activities
Eligible for social security
Ineligible for 24-hour nursing care
Under the supervision of a Dauphin County Case Manager

Because Keystone's Caring Family Program is funded through Social Security benefits administered by Dauphin County, participation is limited to residents of Dauphin County.* A "Caring Family" can support up to three individuals in their home. Pets are allowed if agreed to by all parties.

To become a "Caring Family," some training is required by the Commonwealth of PA and by Keystone Community Mental Health (KCMH), the licensed regulator of services. Once an individual joins your family, monthly staff visits are scheduled by KCMH to provide guidance and confirm the continued compatibility and suitability of each match. In exchange for $830/month compensation, each "Caring Family" provides food, shelter, utilities and personal care items. All of these practical services are in addition to the compassionate care and attention that defines the spirit of the program.

*Due to fire codes, Harrisburg city residents face more stringent requirements.

Keystone Human Services