Respite:

Why Respite?

Respite care can give relief to family caregivers of individuals with developmental disabilities to reduce stress and allow time for themselves, other family members or whatever they need to “get a break”.

Benefits include:

• Relief of stress on family caregivers
• Enhancing family relationships
• Time for personal, social and recreational interests
• Access to appropriate physical care, developmental and recreational activities, and community resources

Click here to contact Karon Johnson.

Voucher Respite
A family may recruit, schedule and supervise their respite worker and in turn be reimbursed by The Arc of Durham. Maximum reimbursement rates are determined by The Arc depending on enrollment and are subject to change.

Eligibility and Enrollment

• Durham County resident
• Enrollment with the Durham Center (Area Mental Health Agency)
• Those who are not eligible for enrollment with the Durham Center may contact The Arc of Durham directly for information on the Voucher program. Other sources of funding may be available.
• Completion of Voucher enrollment forms
• Home Visit
• Attendance at a minimum of two informational and/ or parent support meetings per year.

Other Voucher Information:

• Families can use family members as care providers as long as they are not living in the home.
• Families are encouraged to negotiate rates of pay with care providers to maximize the amount of respite received.
• Parents are encouraged to talk with Arc staff about any training or support that may be needed for the provider they hire.
• Parents are welcome to ask Arc staff for contact information for potential care providers.

Current respite program participants may download a reimbursement form by clicking here. Check back soon for an editable form!