This study was carried out by Michlol- the Evaluation and Measurement Unit of the Shalem Fund

Supportive Community program in a central program of the Community Care Services in the Ministry of Social Affairs and Social Services, Division of Services for Persons with Development Disabilities. The program has been operating for about 10 years, currently providing services for 360 people with developmental mental disabilities, in 35 local authorities, guided by about 30 counselors. In some of the local authorities the program is operated by the authority and in others it is operated by non-profit organizations (such as: Cochav, Chimes Israel, A.D.N.M., Seeach Sod, Akim). The program provides supportive services, accompanying and direction for people with developmental mental disabilities ages 21 and older, who live on their own or with their elderly parents in the community, and even people that are at risk, in order to help them stay in the community

The program has four major goals for promotion of the people with developmental mental disabilities that take part in it 

Creating a support network, that complements the services given by the division of social services, providing accompanying and mediation in different aspects of community life (including integration in community establishments)

 Improvement of the quality of life of those living in the community, allowing them to conduct a normative life style and keep living in their natural environment

Avoid or postpone placement outside the home

Attempt to positively affect family member’s opinions and attitudes towards using social services, receiving help, create trust and so on

For the full literature review on Supportive Community press here

For the full report on the evaluation of the Supportive Community Program press here

Key words :
People with intellectual developmental disabilities, +Adults 21, Integration in the community, Shalem Fund study