New York Codes, Rules and Regulations
Title 14 - DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HYGIENE
Chapter XIV - Office for People With Developmental Disabilities
Part 687 - Family Care Homes for People With Developmental Disabilities
Section 687.2 - Background and intent

(a) The family care program (see section 687.99 of this Part) has been developed to make it possible for a certified family care provider to care for an individual or individuals in the provider's own home, thus providing a family-oriented, home-like environment.

(b) Family care placement is available, in accordance with processes established by OPWDD, to those individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities who do not need residential care and treatment in a more restrictive, structured setting, but who are unable to function adequately in their own homes or for whom the family-oriented environment is more appropriate than other available community settings or independent community living arrangements.

(c) Family care placement should be seen, not only for the purpose of providing a place of residence, but also as contributing to the overall personal development process of the individual(s).

(d) In all cases, a family care home shall provide a residential environment that approximates, as closely as possible, a family setting which enables and encourages individuals to participate in family and community life on an equal status with other members of the household. Thus, one of the primary goals of a family care placement is the acceptance of a person as a full member of the household so as to share in that household's pleasures and responsibilities.

(e) Exceptions to the provisions of this Part, other than statutory requirements, may be made by the commissioner (see section 687.99 of this Part) when it is determined that an exception is necessary and in the best interest of an individual(s) and is consistent with the health, safety and welfare of the individual(s).