Adult Family Care

Adult Family Care (AFC) is for adults with medical, physical, or developmental disabilities. We know remaining at home is an important way to maintain independence and quality of life. Many times, family or friends provide the care that makes this possible. Our AFC program provides support—in the form of compensation and training—that enables these caregivers to provide valuable support to loved ones in their home. 

This program is supported by MassHealth, and caregivers can receive a tax-free stipend that is correlated to the level of care required. Caregivers can be a non-custodial parent, a family member or a non-family member. However, caregivers cannot be spouses, parents of minor children, or legally responsible relatives (legal guardians). 

Important Eligibility Requirements

  • Must have MassHealth Standard or Common Health insurance. 
  • Must be at least 16 years of age. 
  • Must have a medical, physical or developmental disability and need supervision or assistance with at least one basic task of everyday life, such as eating, bathing, dressing, toileting and transferring. 
  • Must have a written order for Adult Family Care from a Primary Care Physician. 
  • Must be able to be safely cared for in the home. 

Let's Get Started

  • 1 Email us today to make a referral for an individual needing assistance: Director of AFC Katie Stronach at kstronach@soshoresupport.org
  • 2 Our intake process starts with a phone interview to determine basic eligibility and then entails home visits for assessment, evaluation, and training.
  • 3 Our intake team can also help direct you to the vast network of resources available through South Shore Support Services.
  • 4 MassHealth will then determine if you (caregiver) are eligible to receive a tax-free monthly stipend.

Benefits of AFC

  • Individuals needing assistance with care maintain as much independence as possible with a stable home life in their community. 
  • Caregivers receive comprehensive orientation and on-going training to meet the needs of the individual living with them. 
  • Registered nurses and case managers offer on-going education, advocacy, and healthcare oversight through monthly home visits, phone consultations, and 24/7 on-call emergency support.