RUMFORD – Rumford Group Homes Inc. has announced it has been approved and licensed by the Department of Health and Human Services to provide community integration services to adults 18 and older.

Services will be offered throughout Androscoggin, Franklin and Oxford counties to adults with MaineCare who have a mental health diagnosis.

Clients will be assigned to a case manager who will help them connect with services in the community and natural supports. They will be assisted in developing strategies to improve their mental health, reducing the cycles of instability in their life and making better decisions to meet their needs.

Services will include case management, daily living support and skill development services and are designed to help adults with a mental illness live more independently in the community. Services will be offered in their home or a community utilizing a strengths-based philosophy.

Therese Johnson, director of homeless services, said, “The addition of these services will promote successful living in the community while minimizing the need for hospitalization. Many people seeking our homeless services have an undiagnosed or untreated mental health issue. The development of this new service allows us to provide an effective continuum of services, including outreach, shelter, housing and community-based case management.”

Susan L. Forkus, director of programs, said, “The CIS program will help facilitate an individual’s transition to independence. Program staff will provide additional support to their current living status to enhance the quality of their life. This can include assistance in accessing benefits and entitlements, assistance with medication monitoring, case management, including linkage and advocacy, crisis intervention and skills development.

Each individual works with a case manager to develop an Individual Service Plan. The plan outlines goals designed to improve their emotional and mental health while assisting them in becoming as independent as possible. Individuals are linked to needed services such as vocational rehabilitation, peer resources, crisis services and legal services. The case manager helps them to get their basic needs met, such as housing, food, assistance with applying for benefits and entitlements.

Hours of services are based on each client’s individual needs. Referrals come from other social service agencies, schools, medical staff, police departments, parents, civic and/or faith-based organizations, concerned citizens and self-referrals.

To make a referral, request a brochure or for more information, call 369-9439 or 744-4031. For more agency information, call 364-3551.