Sarah's Story

Sarah, a single mother living in Atlantic County, NJ, has two children—both of whom have an intellectual disability. The family lives in a small home, in a quiet neighborhood. Unable to work outside of the home due to the overwhelming demands of her children’s daily care and maintaining her home, Sarah struggled to make ends meet. Because of a lack of resources, Sarah used blankets to cover her windows. Inside, the home, only basic furnishings were available. Sarah said she was unable to purchase anything “extra” like furniture. Despite the difference in age and size, her children had to share clothing due to the lack of resources they had access to. Food and basic necessities were purchased only when absolutely needed. Sarah and her family were barely getting by; she and her two children were desperate for help.
Case Management professionals from the Intensive Case Management Program were able to work with Sarah to identify and obtain emergency funding for food, clothing for both of her children, and furnishings that made her house a home. Case Management professionals also worked with Sarah to complete the applications necessary to ensure she, and her children had the services and supports they needed and were entitled to.
The Intensive Case Management Program supports individuals with a range of disabilities but specializes in assisting individuals with mild intellectual and developmental disabilities that do not currently or otherwise qualify for state-funded services. Despite these individuals not qualifying for services with the state, many of them require regular assistance.
While the Program specializes in supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families, many other vulnerable populations, such as, the blind and visually impaired, individuals who are homeless or at risk for homelessness, individuals struggling with substance abuse, persons with literacy, and learning difficulties are also referred to the Intensive Case Management Program.
Beyond providing emergent services, the job of the Case Manager is often the art of helping people arrange important aspects of daily living. This includes arranging for support services, advocating for the best medical care, making necessary appointments, finding appropriate transportation, securing needed equipment, coordinating educational resources, or searching out recreational and respite opportunities. Teaching people and families how to maneuver through these various systems is the key to the success of this work.

Charity Name
The Arc of Atlantic County
Photo Caption
Sarah was desperate to provide a home for her two children who lived with IDD
Photo Credit
Charlein Gracia