STARS Family Services offers a community-based respite program that is available in a warm and welcoming environment with SFS-trained Life Skills Coaches (Direct Support Professionals).
Definition of Respite Support
For purposes of this program, respite support is defined as "planned or emergency care provided to a STARS as needed by family members who are caring for that STARS."
Why Respite Help?
Families with STARS are more likely than the general population to experience health problems of their own. Stress and the physical demands of life are often the root cause of these problems. Respite provides an opportunity for family members to address their own health and well-being.
Research has shown that the number of family caregivers and the need for quality respite care in our state is significant. However, current resources are limited and often difficult to access. Families are often so focused on the task of providing around-the-clock care that they become isolated. Families often drop out of community circulation now when support is most needed.
But thanks to our Respite program, this doesn’t have to happen. Our team of experienced staff will make you feel safe and confident putting your loved one in our care…so you can take time to care for yourself. During their stay, our guests will enjoy new activities, learn new skills, and have fun spending time engaging with friends! All while having their support needs met, with the help of our Life Skills Coaches (DSPs).
Feel refreshed, confident, and like yourself again. Once you fill your cup, you’ll be ready to return to compassionately caring for your loved ones.
Meanwhile, they’ll be…
Discovering new ways to express themselves through art, music, and other creative outlets.
Exercising – engaged in Zumba.
Taking advantage of cooking opportunities.
Acquiring important social skills.
Taking trips to restaurants, museums, movies, libraries, parks, bowling alleys, attending church and so much more!
What You Can Expect from STARS Family Services Respite Program
We provide short-term respite support to adults with intellectual & developmental disabilities who are served in the STARS Disability Ministry at College Church in Wheaton. Services are provided at the Jean Hooten Home for women and Kenny’s Home for men. Each respite resident has a private bedroom and may share a bathroom with one full-time resident. Working with the STARS' family, SFS plans activities that enhance life experiences, while providing opportunities to socialize, make friends, be creative, exercise, and engage in community activities. Enhancement activities may include music, movement activities (i.e. Zumba), art, nutrition education, and other recreational programs.
SFS respite service provides inclusive activities in the community that are enjoyable and meaningful for the STARS.
SFS respite service helps the STARS and family plan activities to make the most of their respite time by engaging in activities most meaningful to the STARS.
SFS provides a robust schedule of activities, such as arts and crafts, games, recreation and physical fitness and cooking occasions. SFS also offers trips off site to events and community gatherings.
What are the Hours and Availability for the SFS Respite Program?
You can have peace of mind knowing we’re here for you whenever you need us, including in an emergency.
Weekend Respite:
46-hour stay (Friday – Sunday) for STARS. Includes meals, daily living monitoring, and recreational activities.
Daytime Respite:
Daytime respite support during the week. Perfect for anyone who doesn’t want an overnight stay.
Emergency Respite:
24-hour support during a family crisis.
Extended Stay Respite:
One- to two-week stay for a STAR. Available year-round with prior application. If more time is needed this can be indicated at time of application.
What Are the Fees?
The service fee for respite care at an SFS home is $95/day and $665/week. There will be an additional fee for Day Programming, if applicable (i.e. Art Studio and Home Base Services) of $30/day.
How to Apply for The Respite Program
To request an application and learn more about us, please contact Dr. Sharon Coutryer, Executive Director, at scoutryer@starsfamilyservices.org or call us at 630-206-0243.