What is Shared Living?
Shared Living is a supportive, person-centered model that connects individuals with intellectual disabilities and/or autism to families or caregivers who open their homes and hearts. This service provides more than just a place to live—it fosters meaningful relationships and a sense of belonging while delivering day-to-day support tailored to each person’s unique needs. The Shared Living program, which encompasses Life Sharing in Pennsylvania and Sponsored Residential in Virginia, is rooted in a family-oriented approach that promotes personal growth, independence, and community integration. Whether through a Life Sharing family or a Sponsored Residential provider, individuals receive compassionate care in a home environment designed to meet their physical, medical, emotional, and social needs.
Shared Living supports full access to community life, including participation in activities, events, employment, volunteering, and more. It encourages individuals to set goals, pursue dreams, and build the skills needed to live as independently as possible. This service can serve as a long-term solution or a stepping stone toward greater autonomy.
Who May Apply?
Merakey is looking for families of every type, including single adults, couples, and family units to become Shared Living providers. Biological families may also be eligible for the program based on your state’s service guidelines. Once you become a Shared Living provider, you will be actively involved in the person’s life, providing support based on the person’s specific plans as well as being a member of the person’s team to help develop their plans. Providers contract with Merakey and receive a tax-exempt daily stipend based on the person’s support needs to cover services provided and room/board.
Contact
- lifesharing@merakey.org (for PA) | sponsoredres@merakey.org (for VA)
- 833-941-4479