In Texas, more than twenty thousand individuals with intellectual disabilities do not have access to appropriate living arrangements. Many are homeless and without funds or other support, and community resources are sparse. In addition, there are many aging families who care for their relatives at home and have grown unable to carry on that responsibility. Community Homes for Adults, Incorporated
(CHAI) was established in 1983 as a private, non-profit organization. Its founding was the culmination of a number of years of surveys, cost analyses, and feasibility studies by professional and lay groups. The need and concept of CHAI were presented to the Social Planning Committee of the Jewish Federation of Greater Dallas and then endorsed by their Board of Directors. CHAI's purpose is to serve adults with cognitive disabilities, primarily from Dallas and North Texas, by operating long-term group homes and other living arrangements. This project is under Jewish auspices; however, the admissions are non-sectarian. At present, CHAI operates four homes in Dallas: Miller House, Levy House, Todd House, and the Lois W. CHAI provides an atmosphere where residents can progress toward achieving their potential with as much independence as possible. They participate in an educational program resulting in opportunities to experience success, feel pride, and develop a sense of security -- to be individuals of worth and dignity. Unlike many other community group home programs, CHAI offers a long-term living arrangement, so long as the relationship is mutually beneficial and appropriate. CHAI is licensed by the Texas Department of Aging and Disability Services and is a beneficiary of the Jewish Federation of Greater Dallas.
