Q: What will happen to my adult developmentally disabled child?

A developmental disabled (DD) person leaving the Nebraska Public School system at age 21, has practiced job skills in the community, is socially capable, and like all young adults is looking towards getting on with their life.

The reality, in Nebraska, is the young adult with developmental disabilities is all dressed up with no place to go. Over 1800 persons with developmental disabilities are on a waiting list to receive state aid for residential living, which would enable the person to live as independently as possible.

Since 2006, NE residential services are only available to the person with DD if there is a family crisis, such as the death of the parent or primary caretaker.

As many as 65% of NE residents with DD never obtain meaningful employment. This young adult is left with their family struggling to assist them to find a job, trying to find them somewhere safe to live and relying on friends to help them fill their long days.

This uncertainty of safety and choices of lifestyle for the young adult with DD offers little comfort for the future and little opportunity for now.

Peace of Mind for Families

Parents and siblings of special needs persons formed Sheltering Tree Inc. as a non-profit 505(c)3 organization in 2007. They were then joined by volunteers and members of the Orthodox Christian Churches in Omaha and Lincoln.

Our mission is to create a premiere, safe, caring, and affordable apartment style housing community with live-in caregivers and common healthy dining.

There will be common social areas for activities, continuing education and jobs. This semi-independent living gives the opportunity for life-long friendship, while providing personal apartments for each resident.

                                              (402) 679-4444 | shelteringtree@yahoo.com

Call us at (402) 679-4444 or e-mail us at shelteringtree@yahoo.com

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Thank you for your support.