FAIM seeks care providers
By Sean Feagan, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter
A local non-profit is looking for new “supportive roommates” to help Strathmore residents living with disabilities gain more independence.
Foothills Advocacy In Motion (FAIM), a non-profit working to promote community inclusion for people with developmental disabilities, with branches in Strathmore, High River and Okotoks, is looking for supportive roommates as a part of its residential and respite programs. The programs feature care providers hosting adults living with disabilities in their home, either on an ongoing basis, or intermittently (one to two weekends per month) to give respite to other caregivers.
The program, funded through the provincial Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PDD) program, helps adults living with disabilities gain more independence, explained Terra Wainwright, FAIM Home Living Manager in Strathmore. “Our individuals reach 18, and like any other person, want to move out on their own – but they just can’t do it on their own,” she said. “They need that support to walk them through.”
People with a range of care requirements are supported through the program, said Wainwright. “It’s a spectrum,” she said. “Some are quite independent, in terms of being able to wake up and do routines, while others need more guidance with things.”
The care providers, referred to as supportive roommates, have to meet certain criteria, including possessing a driver’s license and vehicle, home inspections and criminal record background checks. FAIM then pairs them to clients based on “what they think is a good match,” said Wainwright. Participants must also complete six training modules that FAIM conducts in-house and a first aid/CPR course. Compensation is paid monthly and is based on the individual’s level of need.
Individuals typically attend day programs four to five days per week and attend respite two weekends per month.
Supportive roommates need an open mind, said Wainwright.
“I’m looking for people who come with no preconceived ideas,” she said. “They are flexible, they’re adaptable, and they’re willing to learn.”
Each supportive roommate needs to take time to build rapport with their paired client, added Don Derraugh, who has hosted an individual since September. “That just moves mountains,” he said. “You have to be really supportive, understanding and patient while determining what their needs are.
“Once that’s in place, and there’s trust and respect, then you can actually start moving towards identifying plans, having goals (and) things like that.”
While it might take time, close bonds are formed, said Derraugh. “We don’t look at it as just inviting someone into the home – we’ve worked on making them part of the family.”
FAIM’s fastest-growing branch is its Strathmore location, with 19 people in the home living program, and 30 people in the day program, said Wainwright. Those interested in applying to become a supportive roommate and/or respite provider can contact Wainwright by phone at 403-934-4888 ext. 223 or by email (terra@faims.org).