The Arc of Indiana Closes 22 Group Homes Due to Nursing Shortage

The Arc of Northwest Indiana is closing all 22 of its group homes
where it houses people with developmental disabilities, laying off 120
employees. The decision was made by the Northwest Chapter after the state Family
and Social Services Administration said they had concerns about the health and
safety of the 90 people living in the homes. Dickerson says this was mainly due
to a nursing shortage. "There is specifically a shortage of nurses working
with people with developmental disabilities," said Dickerson. The 90
residents have been moved to what have been described as "temporary"
homes, some as far away as Indianapolis and Fort Wayne. "Others are
staying locally, but the state is working with every family. The state is
helping us to figure out what we can do to help them get their loved one closer
to them where they want to be," said Dickerson. He adds that the homes
serve about 500 people in other programs, the administration of which will end
soon. The Arc of Northwest Indiana's other programs will continue.

Source/more/listen: WIBC