Respite Care in Kalamazoo

Respite Care

Caring for a loved one with unique needs is rewarding, but it can also be overwhelming at times. We offer Respite Care services in our community inclusion center. Designed to give caregivers a well-deserved break while ensuring their child or family member is safe, supported, and engaged in meaningful activities.

What is Respite Care?

Respite care provides short-term, temporary relief for primary caregivers. Whether you need time to rest, run errands, or simply recharge, our trained Direct Support Professionals step in to provide compassionate care tailored to your loved one’s needs.

Our Approach

We believe respite care should be more than just “time off” for caregivers—it’s also an opportunity for growth, inclusion, and joy for those receiving care. Our team focuses on:

Engagement & Fun: Offering interactive activities, games, and social opportunities.
Safety & Comfort: Creating a supportive environment where each individual feels secure and valued.
Personalized Support: Meeting the unique needs, interests, and goals of every client.

Who Can Receive Respite Care?

Our respite services are available for individuals of all abilities, with a special focus on supporting children, teens, and young adults with developmental differences or special needs. Respite care is also an option for foster parents.

How Respite Can Be Funded Through Medicaid?

Many families access respite care through Michigan Medicaid programs, which can cover the cost of these services for eligible individuals. Foster parents may also qualify for respite support through Medicaid or foster care services.

To get started:

1. Check eligibility:

Respite and CLS services may be available for:

Youth with disabilities who qualify for Michigan Medicaid
Families enrolled in the Children’s Waiver Program (CWP) or other Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS)
Youth receiving services through their local Community Mental Health agency
Foster parents, who may be eligible for respite through foster care supports or Medicaid-funded services depending on the child’s needs

2. Connect with Your Local Community Mental Health Agency

Families typically begin by contacting their local Community Mental Health agency. Their intake team will guide you through the eligibility and service process. See the list of Community Mental Health Agencies below.

3. Complete an Assessment
A community mental health agency supports coordinator or case manager will complete an assessment to determine your child’s needs and which services may be appropriate, including Respite Care or Community Living Supports (CLS).

4. Request Ripple Effects Community Inclusion Center as Your Provider
During your person-centered planning meeting with your community mental health agency, you can request that your Respite or CLS referral be sent to Ripple Effects Community Inclusion Center as your service provider.

5. Receive Service Authorization
Once services are approved, your case manager will notify you of the number of authorized hours and send the referral to RECIC.

6. Schedule Your First Session
After we receive the referral, our team will contact you to: