PA Respite Definition

Respite refers to short-term, temporary care provided to children/youth, ages 0-21, diagnosed with serious emotional or behavioral challenges. Counties receive funding from the state, which they provide to eligible families. Respite is provided so their families/caregivers can take a break from the daily routine of care giving. Respite can be based in the family’s/caregiver’s home or in the community. Respite services can vary from a few hours to a week to an extended period of time. Respite care may be an important part of the overall support that families/caregiver need to sustain and care for their child or children. Respite care should be responsive to the individual family/caregiver needs.

OMHSAS funds respite services and has issued new guidelines for counties in October 2009.  The guidelines include:

  1. Types of respite the county can fund
  2. Eligibility requirements for families
  3. Respite resources

Read PA Recommended Guidelines for County Respite Services for Families with Children in the Behavioral Health System.

More Information

Contact:
Crystal Doyle
Human Services Program Specialist
Division of Service Delivery
OMHSAS – Bureau of Children’s Behavioral Health Services
DGS Annex Complex, Beechmont Bldg, 2nd Floor
PO Box 2675
Harrisburg, PA 17105-2675
Office: (717) 705-8397  Fax: (717) 705-8268
E-mail: crdoyle@state.pa.us