In this residential option, families or individuals choose to share their homes and care for members with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Shared living providers are people that help adult members with education, employment, recreation, family inclusion, and independent living skills. Waypoint’s independent contractors receive a generous stipend, training, and support, including 24/7 emergency on-call support.
FAQS
How is Shared Living Different From a Group Home or Residential Program?
Shared Living is a home‑based support model where a person with a disability lives with a caregiver in a shared, family‑style home. It focuses on genuine relationships, mutual respect, and shared responsibility.
What Kind of Support Do Shared Living Households Get?
Waypoint provides thorough training for every Shared Living Provider to ensure they can confidently support the needs and preferences of the person they are matched with. Ongoing support includes monthly check-ins, bi‑monthly home visits, and 24‑hour on‑call assistance. Providers receive a generous bi‑weekly stipend, with the current rate at $135 per day.
What Do You Require for Documentation?
Documentation is completed through our online system and must reflect the individual’s goals and the services provided to support their independence and community involvement.
How Does Respite Work?
In‑Home Respite provides Shared Living households with temporary relief from daily caregiving. Respite providers are independent contractors hired and paid by the Shared Living Provider, who must ensure they have required certifications (DSP, CRMA, CPR/First Aid) and complete proper documentation.
Do I Need a Lease/Rental Agreement With the Individual?
Yes. Under the new licensing rules, all providers—family and non‑family—must complete an annual lease agreement.
I Can't Find My HS Diploma or GED - Can I Be a Provider Without It?
No, per licensing regulations a Shared Living Provider must furnish a copy of a high school diploma, GED or College transcript before becoming a provider.
Are Trainings to Become a Shared Living Provider Paid for by Waypoint?
All required trainings are offered free and in‑house by Waypoint.
Do I Need to Have a Water Test Done?
Yes. State regulations require a full comprehensive water test if you are using a well.
Can I Have Another Job While Being a Shared Living Provider?
The Shared Living Manager will help identify an individual who is a good match for you and your household. If you work or plan to work another job, this will be considered during the matching process.
How Long Does It Take to Become a Shared Living Provider?
The timeline varies. If you already have an identified individual, the process usually takes 2–3 months. If you’re waiting for a match, there’s no set timeframe, as it depends on available clients and responses from Case Managers.
Looking for more information?
To find out more about Waypoint’s Shared Living Program, contact Britney Bolduc; bbolduc@waypointmaine.org or give us a call at 207.432.8986.
