Host Home Mentor FAQ
We know that becoming a host home Mentor is a big decision.
We’re here with answers, support, and encouragement throughout your entire journey.
Please read some of our commonly asked questions about what it means to be a host home provider. If your question isn’t answered below, you can fill out this form to contact us.
A host home provider is someone who welcomes an adult with an intellectual or developmental disability into their home as part of their family. Host home providers give care and support to help the individual meet their goals. Those may be wellness or treatment goals, or milestones to help them be more independent.
Our host home providers come from all walks of life. They may be stay-at-home moms and dads, single people, empty-nesters, or working professionals. They represent every gender, orientation, ethnicity, and religion. One thing all caregivers have in common is their commitment to helping others.
Host home providers receive a monthly stipend to help cover the cost of supporting individuals in their homes. The amount you receive varies based on your state and the level of care you are providing.
Just fill out our online form to learn more. A Sevita team member will contact you to answer any questions you may have. While it varies from state to state, the entire process for preparing to welcome someone into your home takes 8 to 12 weeks. During this time, our team is there to guide you through the process.
We’ll make sure to match you with an individual whose needs meet the level of care you’re comfortable providing. While responsibilities vary based on each individual’s needs, it includes things like:
- Offering a safe and welcoming place to live
- Daily supervision, encouragement, and care as needed
- Preparing healthy meals
- Providing transportation to work, appointments, or activities
- Helping the individual participate in activities to build skills, spark interests, and make friends
Mentors are also responsible for maintaining records and documentation of services, activities, and support provided.
The adults we serve have different degrees of developmental or intellectual disability, or other needs, like autism, cerebral palsy, or epilepsy. Some may be independent and able to go out on their own or have a job. Others may need more support. We’ll be sure you’re matched with a person whose needs fit your lifestyle.
Each host home Mentor has a dedicated coordinator to help with case management, make home visits, and answer questions. The coordinator is there to support the Mentor and make sure the individual’s plan of care is being followed.
While some of the individuals we serve do need constant support, others don’t. Our team will ensure that you’re matched with a person whose level of need fits best with your lifestyle.
That’s up to you. Some of our Mentor families are together for decades. Others are together for a few years until the individual’s or the Mentor’s needs change. No matter how long the individual lives with you, you have the chance to form a lifelong bond with them.
State regulations govern the number of individuals you can welcome in your home as a host home Mentor. The number also depends on the level of care needed. Typically, our Mentors host one or two people at a time. Each individual will need their own bedroom.
Of course! Everyone needs to get away sometimes. And we understand that life isn’t always predictable. So, whether you’re planning a vacation or are called away unexpectedly, we’ll be there to help. We will make sure the individual has care while you’re gone.
Many of the adults who choose to live with a host home family have busy days – just like you! They may work, visit a day center, or enjoy an activity they love. They may spend time with family and friends. Some of the individuals we serve feel most comfortable staying at home during the day. Our matching process will make sure you find the right fit for your schedule and lifestyle.
That depends on state regulations. Some states require you to have a job or another source of income (like a pension or social security). Some states require you to stay home full-time with the person you host. The ability to work also depends on the level of care the individual in your home needs. Fill out our form to find out more about your state’s guidelines.
You will need to fill basic needs. The monthly stipend you receive will help cover the cost for things like:
- Bedroom furniture and bedding
- Clothing
- Nutritious meals and snacks
- Personal care supplies (shampoo, soap, toothpaste, etc.)
- Transportation
- Utilities (including phone, cable and internet)
We have specific guidelines for helping individuals with their finances. Your coordinator will work with you to determine what help is needed and what steps to take.
Every person has the right to live well.
