ROANOKE, Va. (WFXR) – The DePaul Community Resources has honored its success of its Agency-Directed Services program since the inception in January of 2024.
The program has served over 100 families in need of help in their homes. The program has been introduced to families in Virginia with a Medicaid waiver for extra support at home.
“When we received our license in January, we knew the need for this program in the Roanoke Valley was great and it grew quickly,” said Lauren Sherwood, director of ADS. “At DePaul, we value serving others through opening doors to hope and belonging, and we consider it a privilege to have been able to bridge the gap in 2024 through this new program.”
When families enter the program, registered nurses develop individual plans to meet individual needs. Services include bathing, feeding, mobility support, and light housekeeping. The nurse and ADS team will guide the individuals and their families to choose the care needed and who will provide that care. This could be a family member, qualified, or a provider in the area.
“DePaul has given us care that we never imagined possible,” said Casey Guthrie. “They have changed our lives, and we are forever grateful to DePaul and the incredible souls who carry out their job with such compassion there. They make life with a special needs child easier, and for that we owe them everything.”
“DePaul has been a beacon of hope for our family, offering the support and resources we needed during some of our most challenging times with Braedyn’s health,” said Kristen Hartman. “Their commitment to providing compassionate care has made an immense impact on our journey, helping us navigate complex needs with confidence. The DePaul program isn’t just a service; it’s a lifeline that allows us to focus on what matters most—Braedyn’s well-being and his future.”
“I was initially nervous to switch to ADS, but now I’m so glad I took the plunge,” said Brittany Clark-Slaughter. “Everyone at DePaul has been incredibly welcoming, kind, and knowledgeable. The support I’ve received has made the transition smoother than I imagined, and the relief I feel is palpable.”
DePaul’s ADS program serves all ages and ranges from infants to elderly. The program currently serves Covington, Alleghany, Botetourt, Roanoke, Salem, Franklin, Bedford, Craig, Montgomery, and Floyd.
DePaul is hoping to expand the program to meet more people in need of help at home.
“We hope to expand our license in 2025 to include more counties and be able to serve additional families through this service in the years to come,” said Sherwood. “We are grateful for the families who have trusted DePaul to serve their loved ones with excellence as we celebrate this milestone.”