The Ministry of Child and Family Development (MCFD) has contracted Rebecca de Aro to operate the respite care homes. Ms. de Aro has operated Applegate Residential Programs since 2005. She is assisted by staff, some of whom are trained nurses, early childhood educators and LPNs. Professional training provided will be tailored to the individual’s care needs. Parents are actively involved in the child specific orientation.

There is no cost to the families for an individual to receive our services. Children who are accepted under the At Home Program may also qualify.

For referrals, please contact Child & Youth Special Needs (CYSN) Campbell River at 250 286 7542 or Community Living BC (CLBC) at 250 202 3191.

Respite Care is funded by the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) or Community Living BC (CLBC) to provide short periods of relief to parents of individuals who are eligible. Respite is one way of supporting families and can contribute to both physical and emotional health. Respite care is provided by qualified staff at two of our four locations depending on the individual needs of the people we serve and is intended to provide 24-hour, round-the-clock care. These homes are under our licensed adult home, Applegate, through Island Health (formerly known as Vancouver Island Health Authority).

An individual may be considered for eligibility providing he/ she:

· Is a resident of BC and lives in Campbell River and region

· Has mental delay, or autism

· Requires respite or residential care

· Has been approved by the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) or Community Living BC (CLBC)

Once a referral is received, a social worker from the Ministry of Children and Family Development (MCFD) or Community Living BC (CLBC) assesses the individual and their family for eligibility. When an individual is accepted to the program, the social worker works with the family to determine an individualized care plan. Days are usually assigned on a monthly basis.