The Respite

Respite support provides families with the opportunity to take a break from their caregiver roles. It provides family members a time to respond to the many challenges that confront families in their efforts to raise, nurture and protect the lives of their children. It also provides families and children with disabilities a time out for relaxation, rest and rejuvenation. If you have a family member with a disability, ask yourself the following questions to determine if respite services would benefit you and your family:

Is it difficult to find temporary care for my family member?

Does caring for my family member interfere with scheduling appointments or with personal projects?

Is it important that my spouse and I enjoy an evening alone together?

If I had appropriate care for my loved one with a disability, would I use the time for a special activity with other members of my family?

Am I concerned that in the event of a family emergency there is no one to care for my loved one with a disability?

Do I avoid going out because I feel I would be imposing on the family and friends who care for my child?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, your family may very well benefit from our respite program.

The Arc of Washington County's Respite Program is available to any individual with a developmental disability living in the Washington, Sullivan, Carter, Hancock, Johnson, Hawkins or Unicoi County area. There are NO restrictions on age or severity of disability. The Respite Care Program is funded by United Way and The Division of Mental Retardation Services.

For additional information, or if you have any questions about our Respite Program, please contact Malessa Fleenor at 423-928-9362.