Ohel Children’s Home opens first residential house in Teaneck
Ohel Children’s Home and Family Services will soon open the first of three residential homes in Teaneck in collaboration with the Bayit Association, an organization of parents who support young adults with developmental disabilities, raising funds and building residential Shabbat-observant homes for individuals with challenges in New Jersey.
Over the last year and a half, the Bayit Association worked with Ohel to create a new type of residence for adults with intellectual and developmental learning disabilities. With the help of over 30 families and local advocates, plans for Ohel-based support services came to fruition. Lee Niren, Ohel assistant director, said, “Together, Ohel and the Bayit Association are developing multiple certified residences, including this new home in Teaneck, where we can foster the independence of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, ensuring they have access to the skills they need for independent living.” What is different from other agencies, said Niren, “is that our residences are aligned with Orthodox values, which we’re very proud to share and uphold within the community.”
The first new home in Teaneck supports four men with different experiences and personal preferences. The residence will be staffed 24/7 in shifts, with a nurse and a board-certified behavior analyst providing a supportive and enriching environment for skill-building, personal growth, and independent living.
Niren said, “We always hire staff far in advance of move-in day, so residents can meet the team, and we can ensure a smooth transition. Ohel also accommodates residents’ needs to feel at home and comfortable, ensuring they have kosher food requests, activities, and even the paint color in their room catered to their customized preferences.”
Niren added, “Many of these individuals have been seen as children by their parents, and now they are moving on and becoming more independent. Most will experience an emotional learning curve, and our team remains mindful that they’re handling a delicate personal journey filled with new milestones.”
Niren said that the residents’ parents are always kept in mind because many have never lived without their children. “An adult child moving out of the home will often feel like a very traumatic experience for any parent,” said Niren. “It’s our job to build trust because it can feel like strangers are caring for their children. We want to prove how this is a healthy process for the entire family. At this stage of life, parents can refocus on other parts of their family in deeper ways. It’s wonderful that their child is with age-appropriate peers, and we remind parents that they can stop by to visit or enjoy a meal any time.”
In 2025, Ohel plans to open additional residences and launch day habilitation programs. If you’re a New Jersey parent interested in learning more about local housing opportunities for a child 21-plus, contact 618-686-3133 or njservices@ohelfamily.org. To learn more, go to ohelfamily.org/service/Community-Services-in-New-Jersey.
— Ohel Children’s Home and Family Services
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