Part 2: Healing Homes, A Road to Recovery for NJ Youth

Although there are many types of group homes, these healing homes are contracted through the Department of Children and Families and provide around-the-clock care for 12 or fewer children. Most homes serve about six youth. These homes must meet stringent state regulations governing maintenance, community relations and safety. Children living in these residences are never to be left home alone. The homes are regularly inspected.
In addition, strong evidence shows that these homes have no affect on property values. And, both state and federal laws protect the residents of these homes from housing discrimination. Unfortunately, some communities, often out of misunderstanding,react with fear and suspicion when a healing home first comes to town. Some towns have threatened or have taken legal action to keep these homes from opening in their borders. Others have expressed concerns that these homes will depress property values.
The truth is, hundreds of healing homes already exist in towns around New Jersey where they peacefully and productively have become part of the fabric of their communities, while doing the vital work of shepherding children along their roads to recovery.

For more information, please visit http://www.state.nj.us/childadvocate/

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