BRIDGE STREET HOME

The Bridge Street home was established in February 1999 as part of the State of Oregon's effort to de-institutionalize individuals with developmental disabilities. Bridge Street is one of a number of group homes established throughout the state to meet the needs of persons with significant medical an emotional needs.

There are five individuals who now call Bridge Street their home. While carefully monitoring their health needs through daily nursing services, the residents of the Bridge Street home reach out to explore their community with various outings and activities. The community of Josephine County, Oregon in turn has welcomed the residents warmly, interacting with them on each outing.

Being in Southern Oregon now places the residents closer to their families, and living in a small group home allows far more interaction with staff and newly developed friends.

People that would otherwise have lived their lives in the dismal confines of a state institution now live in a neighborhood with friends who know them by name and respect their presence in the community.