Respite Care for Children with Special Needs in Michigan

& the Children's Waiver Program.

Support for Your Child, Relief for Your Family

Eligibility and Accessing Services

Eligibility for the Children's Waiver Program in Michigan is determined by the local Community Mental Health (CMH) agency. RLLS collaborates with CMH to provide services to eligible families. To begin the process:

  1. Contact your county's Community Mental Health agency to inquire about the Children's Waiver Program and eligibility requirements.
  2. CMH will assess your child's needs and determine if they qualify for waiver services.
  3. If approved, you can choose RLLS as your service provider.

Private Pay Options

For families who do not qualify for CMH funding, RLLS also offers these same respite and support services on a private pay basis.



Benefits of RLLS Services

  • Empowerment: We help children develop essential skills for greater independence and a fulfilling adult life.
  • Family Well-being: Our respite services reduce caregiver burnout and promote a more cohesive family unit.
  • Personalized Care: We tailor our support to meet the specific needs of each child and family.
  • Experienced and Compassionate Staff: Our team is dedicated to providing professional and caring support.


Caring for a child with special needs is a rewarding but demanding journey. At Real Life Living Services (RLLS), we understand the importance of providing both support for your child and temporary relief for family caregivers. Our Children's Waiver Program services in Michigan offer a comprehensive range of assistance, designed to enhance your child's development and well-being while providing essential respite.


What is the Children's Waiver Program?

The Children's Waiver Program in Michigan provides funding for services that support children with developmental disabilities to live in their homes and communities. These waivers, administered through Community Mental Health (CMH) agencies, allow for individualized support plans that address each child's unique needs. RLLS works in partnership with CMH to deliver these vital services.


How RLLS Helps: Respite Care and Support Services

RLLS focuses on providing high-quality respite care for children with special needs, offering families the opportunity for short-term caregiver support. Our services include:

  • In-Home Support: Our trained staff assists children with daily living activities, typically after school, on weekends, or when family caregivers need to be away. This support includes help with chores and routines, meal preparation and eating, health and safety skills, hygiene, homework, and socialization skills.
  • Therapeutic Support: Following proper training by assigned clinicians, our staff can work hands-on with your child, reinforcing clinical programs such as Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy, and/or Behavior Modification.
  • Community Engagement: We facilitate community activities to promote socialization, build behavioral skills, and provide fun and enriching experiences for children.
  • Respite for Family Caregivers: Recognizing the challenges of full-time care, our short-term caregiver support allows parents and families to recharge, attend to personal needs, or handle other family matters, knowing their child is in capable and caring hands.


Client Testimonials

I like the person that takes care of me. I feel comfortable.

My caregiver is wonderful in attending to my needs and helping me live independently.

They help me clean up and have everything organized. They’d do a better job than I’d do.

I am most proud of getting out in the community and socializing and learning to spend money.

I am most proud of my increased ability to stay on task.

I appreciate the help around my house and taking my dog for a walk with me and help me if I fall.

I'm happy that there's a company that helps people that need it or else their needs wouldn't be met without the service.

I am very proud of learning how to read, and becoming a better cook.

Contact Us

Office Hours:  9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday through Friday,

except company holidays


Northern MI Regional Office

140 W RIVER STREET, STE 5

CADILLAC MI 49601-1862

Phone: (231) 887-4080

Fax: (231) 887-4422

Western MI Regional Office

2922 FULLER AVE NE STE 213,

GRAND RAPIDS MI 49505-3458

Phone: (616) 272-3064

Fax: (616) 274-0183



CARF has accredited Real Life Living Services for Community Services Supported Living

since 2002

Real Life Living Services has been a member since 2000


Winner of 2024's Best of Home Health Care Service!

Members Since 2000

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