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EP!C’s Host Homes Program

…assists people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in finding a home designed to encourage independence in the least restrictive environment. We match adults of all ages to host families in the communities of their choice. Participants are supported in a home setting allowing them to become immersed in both community and home life.

Host Home providers and individuals are matched according to likes and similar ideals. All host homes are visited 3 times monthly to ensure the homes are safe and the needs of the people we support are met. Host Home providers receive training in health and safety, implementation of service plans and person-centered services. This ensures a quality relationship of support and guidance while providing the least restrictive environments possible. Providers are people who are looking to make a difference in the life of a person with disabilities from within their home.

A Natural Home Setting to Empower People

Person Centered Care With Host Homes

Through our Host Homes program, participants are given a more individualized support system to help them reach their full potential. For over 35 years, our diligence has helped our program grow to become one of the largest Host Programs in the state of Illinois. Our success has allowed us to grow and provide services to 15 counties in areas such as Galesburg, Springfield, Swansea, and more.

Who Doesn’t Love a Vacation?

Each year our Host Homes program provides affordable vacation opportunities to encourage people with disabilities to explore the world around them. Participants get to enjoy a much-needed break while hanging out and seeing the sights with their friends. Our goal of the vacations is also to promote independence, respect, and cooperation among peers. Whether a stay-cation or out-or-state adventure we have something for everyone.

Take a look at all the fun we have planned!

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Want to Learn More?

If you have questions about becoming a Host Home Provider, please check out our FAQs below!

Ready to start the process of becoming a Host Home Provider? Click here to start filling out your application and contact the Host Homes team when complete at HHinfo@epicci.org or 309-219-6851.

If you are interested in becoming a Resident in the Host Homes program, please contact our Admissions team at admissions@epicci.org or 309-696-1810

Frequently Asked Questions

There are various eligibility requirements including but not limited to a high school diploma or equivalent, valid Illinois driver’s license, home study and fire marshal house inspection, Department of Human Services (DHS) inspection, and Direct Support Person (DSP) training.

Your home must pass site inspection by EP!C staff, fire marshall inspection, and DHS inspection.

Yes. Many individuals either maintain their own independent jobs or attend our day program at our Townline facilities. This allows you to work regular shifts while they are managing their own responsibilities.

Individuals and providers are matched through a compatibility questionnaire, which you can download here, and matching tools throughout the interview process. Then frequent trial visit between the potential provider and individual will increase over time to make sure it is a mutually beneficial match.

You may experience very limited increases in expenses such as mild utility and food bill increases due to an additional person in the home.

The rate that EP!C providers receive is based on the individual’s rate as determined by the state (an average of $25,000 annual salary)

EP!C supports providers through an effective, interdisciplinary team of Qualified Intelectual Disabilities Professionals, to guide and inform in the successful care of individuals in the Host Program. Additional support is accessible through the Host Home Director and Host Homes Relief Staff.

The individual(s) will stay with you until you retire or the individual becomes too medically involved to be cared for in the home. At that time, they would move to a nursing home environment, or an environment better equipped to provide the care that they need.

Often times, the individuals in our program will become honorary members of the provider’s family. This can extend to the individual’s family as well as everyone is encouraged to be involved in the individual’s life and provide a strong support system. As you welcome a new person into your home, you may see your own family grow to include new people.

Typically, Host Home Provider revenue falls under the Foster Care classification but it is always best for you to discuss your specific financial details with your accountant.