All people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities have the right to live in the communities of their choosing and be fully included with people who do not have intellectual or other developmental disabilities. The right to rent or own their home represents a basic foundational aspect of their independence and inclusion in the community.
It is the Position of TheArc New York that:
- Adults should control where and with whom they will live, with increasing affordable opportunities to rent or buy their own homes.
- Individuals with intellectual and other developmental disabilities have the right to be integrated in their communities.
- Necessary individualized supports, adaptations and choices regarding living arrangements should be of their choosing and under their control or the control of their surrogate.
- Children belong with their families. When this is not possible, a family environment that provides love, safety and security must be provided.
- The health and safety of individuals must be safeguarded wherever they live.
- Fully funded and high-quality, individualized supports and services, including appropriate accommodations, must be available to meet the needs of the individual.
- Funding for supports and services must follow people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities and not be tied to a facility or a location.
- The individual with intellectual and other developmental disabilities, and family members when necessary, must have the choice of working with a range of provider agencies to help find the appropriate residence for their family member.
- People with intellectual and other developmental disabilities who choose to live at home with their families have the right to receive the necessary supports and services, including ready access to high quality medical and psychiatric are as needed.
