Group Homes

Benhaven operates seven residential facilities licensed as group homes by the Connecticut Department of Mental Retardation. Three homes are for children (21 and under) and five are for adults.

Day programs for adults who live in Benhaven residential facilities are provided as part of an integrated program. This differs from the more standard approach of residents attending a separate day services program. We feel that organizing all supports and routines under a single manager provides the best opportunity for evaluating each resident's program, and implementing quality improvement measures. Click here to learn more about the ongoing quality management project that grew out of the transition from separate Day and Residential programs to an integrated, person-centered program.

The goals of the residential program are to provide interesting and successful routines for residents, and to develop and improve their skills in all aspects of daily life. Learning for each individual centers on personal hygiene, home maintenance, meal preparation, and recreation, among other things. There is also the opportunity for social development and learning in and about local communities through activities such as shopping, dining out, and other outings or projects.

Each individual in the residential program has an individualized support plan identifying a personal vision, the outcomes desired, and the goals to be addressed. The program involves a mixture of structured learning in a setting that strives to be comfortable, accessible, and homelike. The staff seek to maintain a safe and supportive environment while also providing an appealing atmosphere and lifestyle for reach individual.

At Benhaven, residential services are aimed at creating a stable, structured, homelike living and educational environment. Our staff is skilled at:

• Organizing daily activities and predictable routines;
• Assessing an individual's interests, strengths, and needs;
• Creating positive behavioral support plans, targeted to address need areas as well as to capitalize on abilities and interests;
• Working with families to develop a well-rounded plan for the individual, and building on maintaining strong family relationships with the child;
• Helping the individual and his or her family plan and carry out a successful transition to adulthood.

Referrals for Group Home Placement

For a number of reasons, Benhaven's adult residential population tends to have very little turnover. Therefore, as a practical matter, we have no vacancies in our adult residences, and do not accept referrals for adults. Referrals to Benhaven's residential program are accepted only for individuals through age 21, for our student residences. The Connecticut Department of Children and Families is the agency making the most frequent referrals for residential services at Benhaven. Benhaven accepts referrals only when an opening exists - we do not maintain a waiting list for residential services.