John and Jane are Community Living of Greater Sudbury Host Family parents. At the age of 6, they welcomed Jules into their home initially as foster child. John says, “We’re quite fond of our boy. He’s been in our case since he was removed from his parents’ home. At the age of 14, he transitioned into our family full-time.”
Jules, who is now 22 years old is a high-functioning young man who was diagnosed with autism. He has impulse control disorder which is regulated with medication. Jules’ Host Family was determined to give him the love, care, and stability he needs. John says, “As Jules matured, we were concerned for him moving into a group home. Because we wanted to care for him, we didn’t want him to leave our home.” With a lot of guidance, structure, and support, Jules did attend school. He now attends the Community Living’s Social Club during the day and his behavior has improved significantly.
They celebrate small victories. John says, “Our relationship developed over the years. Jules may not show love and emotion in the same way as others, but we have a very strong connection with him. We do love him, and he gives back in his own way.”
John and his wife have made many sacrifices for Jules over the years, but they get satisfaction when they see a glimmer of progress in his behavior. John says, “The fact that we had a hand in creating what Jules has become is rewarding.”
Host Family Program
Community Living of Greater Sudbury’s “Host Family” program offers companionship and inclusion. Kim Rumley, the Director of Community Services says, “This program connects adults with developmental disabilities with families who open their homes and their hearts to them.”
In return, families find their lives enriched in unexpected ways. Kim’s parents were involved in the Host Family program. She says, “Speaking from personal experience, it’s an opportunity to share a life with someone who hasn’t experienced being part of a family. Our recipient did things with our family that we took for granted.”
Even though the Host Family program has been operating for years, many people are not aware that it exists. As a result, Community Living of Greater Sudbury has a dire need for Host Families.
Invitation to be a Host Family
Community Living of Greater Sudbury is appealing for families and individuals who have the space and desire to bring an adult with a developmental disability into their homes. Kim says, “It’s a way for individuals to live in the community while being somewhat independent. Families create a connection and get satisfaction from the gains and growth that they see in their recipient.”
It’s a program that can enrich the lives of both home providers and home sharers. Kim adds, “We believe in the program which was created as part of a grassroots movement to keep individuals out of institutions and keep them living in the community.”
There is no definition of a family. A family can be a person willing to support another individual with a disability. Kim says, “It’s about the love, care, and support that you can give. Anyone with a place in their heart and home can become a Host Family.” This includes singles, couples, and families with children from diverse backgrounds and life experiences.
As long as you have the right space and pass the application process, Community Living of Greater Sudbury will provide the training, resources, and ongoing support. Host Families do receive compensation to help cover the costs of providing care. Additional information can be found on the Ontario government website.
Everyone deserves a place to call home and people to call family. Becoming a Host Family breaks down barriers, paving the way for a more inclusive society.
John has a message for those considering becoming a Host Family. He says, “Being a Host Family may not be for everyone. But if you bring a developmentally disabled adult into your home, it’s because you have something to give. and you want to give back. It’s part of purpose or calling.
If you are interested in becoming a Host Family contact Community Living of Greater Sudbury at (705) 671-7181, via email at [email protected] or learn more online here.
