Friday, September 20, 2013

"Not In My Neighborhood"

Because of a settlement agreement with the Department of Justice, my home state, Virginia, is tasked with moving residents from institutions into communities. I don't want to debate whether that is a good idea or not, but I did want to share the reactions of many people as group homes move into their neighborhoods.

These group homes will house primarily people with intellectual and physical disabilities. These group homes are NOT halfway houses for people recovering from alcohol or drug dependency. They are a way for people who have been locked away to enjoy the feeling of community and all the perks that come along with that.

But not everyone likes the idea. Check out this piece posted by a local news station in Virginia Beach, Virginia. Pay special attention to the comments that have been left, and then tell me what you would do if your loved one was one of the people moving into the community.

More Group Homes Coming to Virginia

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