PSW/Supportive Roomate
I want to learn about Personal Support Workers!
- Flexible hours
- Great source of extra income
- Greater connection to local community
I want to learn about Supportive Roommates!
- FREE place to live
- Safe, stable housing
- Additional compensation for more involved support (generally $15/hr)
What is a Personal Support Worker?
A Personal Support Worker, PSW, acts as an aide and companion to a person with an intellectual or developmental disability, I/DD. It is the role of the PSW to help the person they are supporting work towards their goals of independence and connection with the community.
Specific duties depend entirely on the needs of the person and may change over time.
Examples of the Support PSWs Provide
Grocery Shopping
Budgeting
Cooking
Cleaning
Public Transportation
Community Safety
Job Assistance
Medical Advocacy
Social Skills
Relationship Building
How it all works:
PSWs are paid through a state funded program called Home-Based Support, HBS. The purpose of the program is to promote independence and integration in the community. People awarded HBS receive an allotment of money each month they can use to pay PSWs.
What is Community Choices role?
Community Choices does not employ PSWs. The person with I/DD or their representative is the employer.
Our role includes:
- Recruiting and referring PSWs to people looking to hire
- Assisting with enrollment and timekeeping
- Working with PSWs and people with I/DD to develop support strategies, as needed
Ready to get started?
You can add yourself to our PSW Database!
Families will choose potential PSWs to interview and/or hire from our database.
What is a Supportive Roommate?
A Supportive Roommate lives with a person with intellectual or developmental disabilities, I/DD, in their home. The Supportive Roommate receives free or reduced rent and a private room. Supportive Roommates act as a LIVE-IN support person and may be paid to provide additional assistance to the person with I/DD.
Examples of Supportive Roommate Responsibilities
Present at night
You do not need to be awake. Only present to provide peace of mind.
Support with organizing the household
Daily task reminders
Provide Companionship
Planning and preparing meals
The cost of groceries is covered for both parties.
Who would make a good Supportive Roommate?
There is not one right fit. Ideal candidates may have one or all of the following qualities:
- A need for housing
- A desire for companionship
- An interest in alternative housing designs
- A mentality of mutual support
- A passion for working with people with I/DD
What is Community Choices role?
Community Choices does not employ Supportive Roommates. The person with I/DD or their representative is the employer.
We refer you to people looking to hire Supportive Roommates. We can also provide training and support.
Ready to get started?
Complete our Supportive Roommate Questionnaire!
Families will choose potential Supportive Roommates to interview and/or hire.
