After a year of research, visiting facilities, and talking with experts in the Intellectual or Developmental Disability (IDD) industry, our board has concluded two things about our financial strategy: (1) we will not use Medicaid funds, and (2) we will establish a day program before launching our residential program.
Texas HHSC reimbursement rates for group homes are not nearly enough to run a program at the level to which we believe it should be. Even if we were to use Medicaid funds, there would still be financial gaps that would require extensive fundraising. These gaps would include the need for higher Direct Support Professional (DSP) pay rates, more employees to facilitate a higher ratio of DSPs to participants, additional administrative staff positions to oversee our programs effectively, and the needed capital to build and maintain our Rehoboth Acres property.
Our mission is to “make room for those with disabilities to thrive”. That means that we desire to say “yes” to those who may typically be told “no” in our local and state-funded IDD programs. We will not be discriminating against anyone based on their inability to contribute financially or because of the behaviors they may exhibit due to their disability. However, each applicant will be reviewed, and continue to be reviewed, on a case-by-case basis to ensure that we can safely and successfully serve them at Rehoboth Acres. We are committed to accommodating our future participants and residents to fulfill our mission.
To be able to financially sustain such an incredible community, we will create three streams of revenue. The first will be through financial partnerships and the gifts of generous and faithful donors throughout our community and beyond. Secondly, we will develop enterprises that our Rehoboth Acres participants will create in our day program with the oversight of our compassionate Thrive Team Leaders and volunteers. Lastly, we will charge a tuition and work with each family to see what, if anything, they can financially contribute to Rehoboth Acres.
Our organization is in the very early stages of development and is subject to change as we learn more about what it takes to serve our IDD community well. We know that God will guide us and establish our steps! Please prayerfully consider how you can help us make room in East Texas for people with disabilities to thrive!