Family Support
The Arc’s Family Support Department assists over 750
families to access the information, resources and supports
they need to keep their family member with a disability at home.
Guidance, advocacy, public education and consultation are provided to the community on an individual and confidential basis.
Provides caregivers with funds for respite, equipment and other individual in-home supports.
Offers Bergen County families funding to assist them in supporting their member with a disability at home.
Matches trained staff and volunteers with individuals with disabilities and also provides the opportunity for families to directly hire their own companion.
Provides individuals and families with assistance in identifying needs and accessing community resources including but not limited to applications for financial assistance, community services, medical care, respite, eligibility determination and waiting list assignments for the NJ Division of Developmental Disabilities.
The Arc provides Broker Coordination Services for individuals and families participating in the Self Determination Project through the State Division of Developmental Disabilities.
The Arc conducts many support groups including SPARC, (Special Parents Arc) and topical groups. Most groups are facilitated by a professional counselor. The Arc also supports a number of parent run self-help groups. Call the Arc for a schedule of meeting times and locations.
The Arc serves as the Northern Satellite of the Statewide Parent Advocacy Network. SPAN provides workshops and training seminars for parents and interested people on subjects such as "Basic Rights" to Special Education," Transition" and "Inclusion." Parent resource advocates are available to assist families with special education questions and advocacy. Call 201-343-3414 or 201-343-3416.
This special program supports parents whose children have been newly diagnosed with a disability or chronic medical condition. The program matches the new parents with an experienced parent mentor. All mentors have successfully completed a formal screening and training program.
Voucher and after school respite programs for families of, and individuals with, Autism.
Consultation and advocacy to assist families in securing appropriate and effective educational services for their children with special needs are provided through the Arc’s Family Partners and MAP programs.