Division of Development Disabilities Implementing Change for LSMNJ Community Residences

In 1986, Lutheran Social Ministries of NJ (LSMNJ) launched a new program meeting the needs of New Jersey residents by opening the Piscataway Community Residence. Since then, this house has been home for up to nine adult women with intellectual and developmental disabilities. In addition, LSMNJ’s Sayreville Community Residence has served up to six profoundly developmentally disabled adult women since 1993. Both residences have operated under annual contracts between LSMNJ and the Division of Development Disabilities (DDD), within the State of New Jersey’s Department of Human Services.

Over a year ago, the Division announced it was reviewing housing and services requirements, processes, and operational procedures for DDD providers and would be implementing changes. LSMNJ has been notified by the DDD that they are taking a different direction in the provision of services to those with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and the Division’s contract with LSMNJ will not be renewed. Effective October 5,2015, care of residents in LSMNJ’s Sayreville and Piscataway Community Residences will be transferred to CARINGHouse Projects, Inc., a faith-based organization that has numerous similar sites throughout the state.

To ensure as smooth a transition as possible to a new DDD provider for the women living in the Piscataway and Sayreville Community Residences, LSMNJ will attempt to partner with the Division and the new provider selected by the Division, CARINGHouse Projects, Inc. LSMNJ will also be working with our residents and the staff who so lovingly care for them to help facilitate this change with minimal disruption and maximum consistency.

It has been LSMNJ’s honor and privilege to care for these wonderful women during our time of contract with the Division. For those who have served in these homes, it has been a mission of caring, helping those in need, and participating in the lives of women that brought a smile to each of our faces in every encounter. There was much joy and happiness for all of us who spent time caring, nurturing, or just visiting with the woman. It will be hard for all in the LSMNJ family to say good-bye.