Program Description
The Home of Your Own Program was Rush Homes’ first program. It was started by a group of people who had children with disabilities. That group included the late Mabel Rush who wondered, “What will happen to my son when I die?” Mabel’s son Jimmy has mental retardation. He is now living in his own home with his roommate Larry. In the Home of Your Own program, the client has lots of choices. They decide where they would like to live, where the furniture goes, who will be their care provider (if needed), and who will be their roommate(s). Rush Homes purchases, rehabilitates, and maintains the home. The homes are located in residential areas, on bus lines, and if possible, near shopping centers and restaurants.

Rush Homes acts as a concerned, advocate landlord and the client pays an affordable rent. We do not provide services; the client must hire a service provider (if needed). The client lives in the home until he or she no longer chooses to or until the client’s health dictates a different housing situation.

Rush Homes acquires homes in a variety of ways:

· Estate planning (parents leave homes to RH in their will for the use of their son or daughter)

· Direct Purchase (with grants, donated funds, and loans)

· Donations from individuals and churches

· Heritage High School Building Trades Program – Rush Homes purchases the house that the students build every other year for use by one of our clients

Client Eligibility
Must be at least 18 years of age Have diagnosis of developmental disability, cognitive disability, and/or physical limitations which are ongoing in nature and preclude the client from earning a living wage Develop a Circle of Support (family, friends, or community members dedicated to the welfare of the client) Receive residential support services from another agency (if necessary) to assure success in living in the community. RH does not provide support services in the Home of Your Own program Willingness to sign a rental agreement with RH and a strong desire to live in a Home of Your Own Show evidence of income. Some homes may require clients meet HUD low-income requirements

Application Process
When applying, please see this letter first: Letter (13kb)

Click Here to download an Application. (33 kb) Adobe Acrobat required.

Send Applications to: P. O. Box 879, Lynchburg, VA 24505

Once your application is received, Rush Homes staff will review your application. If it appears you meet the basic eligibility requirements, your name will be added to the waiting list. Once your name moves closer to the top of the list, you will be asked to provide documentation of disability, income, etc. Applicants who do not meet the basic eligibility requirements will be informed in writing with an explanation of why they were not deemed eligible.

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