Vacancies don t occur often, Richardson said. The group is excited about the opportunity to expand, he said, because there is a demand from people who want their family member to have the opportunity to live in this type of environment. Richardson s foster son, Steven, spent nine years at Lewis Bay convalescent home before moving to the CHIP s house. The quality of life and community-based housing is important, Richardson said, which is what prompted him and other families to establish the group in April of 1992. The 1850 s Gorham F. Crosby House on Park Avenue in Centerville was turned over to the group in late 1992, and after necessary renovations were made, the CHIP s house began accepting residents in 1994.
Residents catch up on local news each morning.
French doors open from each bedroom on the first floor to the outdoor deck, where some residents get together to play board games while others just come out to enjoy the nice weather. Each resident has their own book that compiles photos from events and field trips for family and friends to see. Each resident also has his own e-mail account. The house is fully staffed with a house manager, consulting dietitian, nurse, physical therapy assistant, activities and quality of life facilitator, and several life skills facilitators. Housekeeping and meal preparation is also done by a staff member.