Does anyone have a Family Care Home or Group Home in their subdivision and have their been any problems?

Question

Our 40 year old single family subdivision has just been told that a state funded Family Care Home is opening up in our neighborhood. This home will house 4-6 mentally challenged adults. We are concerned about issues that could arise from this type of home being placed in our otherwise quiet, peaceful, safe neighborhood. Has anyone had one of these type homes placed in your subdivision/neighborhood? If yes, Have there been any issues with the home? We are just concerned for the elderly and children in our neighborhood. We just don't know what the danger aspect of this could be or if there is one? I admit our neighbors are scared and don't know what to expect. We are not wanting to discriminate against the mentally challenged people but we are just concerned for our family's safety, too.

Answer 1

I am a residential supervisor for a group home, and have done so for 16 years.  If this is new to your neighborhood, the agency responsible for the group home has to offer public hearings.  Your concerns are understandable, and it is extremely important that agencies educate the neighborhoods they will be living in.

I hope that you take some comfort in the fact these homes have EXTREMELY strict guidelines they have to adhere to.  I would recommend getting to know the folks moving in- just as you would any new neighbors.  We do not want to disrupt the community, we want to be a part of it.  These homes are staffed 24 hours a day, year round.  The number one priority is to provide a safe living environment- just as your's is.

Whenever I have been involved in moving a home into a new neighborhood, we have addressed similar concerns of safety.  Rest assured, there is no guarantee there will be no issues- just as there is no guarantee when someone "normal" moves next door.  But if you get to know the staff, you will have a direct line of communication if you feel things aren't quite right.   Agencies are very responsive to any neighborhood issues or complaints...the other side of it is you might be surprised in how this home will enhance your community.  

Feel free to email me if you have any other questions- I'd be happy to answer if I can.