Frequently Asked Questions

Bridgeway provides Sponsored Residential and Supported Living services for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our services support everyday living, personal choice, safety, meaningful relationships, and participation in the community.We work with each individual and their support team to identify an appropriate residential setting and develop supports that reflect the person’s needs, preferences, and goals.

Sponsored Residential offers support in the home of an approved sponsor under Bridgeway’s oversight. The individual shares in household life while receiving assistance with daily routines, developing skills, and participating in the community.Support is individualized and may be provided up to 24 hours a day, based on the person’s needs and service plan. The goal is a welcoming home where the individual can experience belonging, maintain relationships, and exercise personal choice.

Supported Living provides individualized assistance in a provider-operated home or apartment setting, with paid staff available around the clock to respond to support needs.Services help individuals develop and maintain everyday skills, manage routines, and participate in community life. The amount and type of direct assistance depend on the individual’s assessed needs and approved plan; 24-hour availability does not automatically mean continuous one-to-one staffing.

The decision starts with the individual: how they want to live, what support they need, and what helps them feel comfortable and successful.Bridgeway considers personal preferences, communication needs, daily routines, health and safety needs, compatibility with the household or setting, funding authorization, and available openings. We involve the individual, their support coordinator, and the people they choose to include in planning.

Depending on the individual’s approved plan, support may include:Personal care and daily living routinesMeal preparation, household tasks, and other everyday skillsCommunication, social interaction, and decision-makingMedication and health-related support within the service’s scopeCommunity outings, shopping, and access to appointmentsSafety awareness and support with identified risksServices are tailored to the person rather than provided as the same package for everyone

For eligible individuals, authorized residential support services may be paid for through Virginia Medicaid’s Developmental Disabilities waivers.Funding requires more than having a Medicaid card. The individual must be enrolled in the appropriate waiver, and the requested service must be approved through the service authorization process before Medicaid-funded services begin.

A Medicaid waiver is a program that helps eligible people receive support at home and in their community as an alternative to institutional care.Virginia has three Developmental Disabilities waivers: Building Independence, Family and Individual Supports, and Community Living. Each offers a different range of services. The appropriate waiver depends on the person’s needs and eligibility.

The waiver coverage for these residential services is:Sponsored Residential: Community Living (CL) WaiverSupported Living: Family and Individual Supports (FIS) Waiver or Community Living (CL) Waiver Enrollment in a waiver does not automatically authorize every service. Your support coordinator can help confirm whether your current waiver covers the residential support being considered and what approvals are needed.

Waiver funding pays for authorized support services. Room and board are separate from the Medicaid payment for Sponsored Residential and Supported Living.Individuals may also have expenses for personal purchases and activities. Before accepting a placement, ask for a written explanation of room-and-board charges, what is included, and any additional financial responsibilities.

Start by contacting your local Community Services Board (CSB) and requesting information about Developmental Disabilities intake and waiver eligibility.The CSB can explain the assessment process and next steps. Virginia has a DD waiver waiting list, and available slots are assigned based on urgency of need. Bridgeway does not determine waiver eligibility or award waiver slots.

Yes. Individuals and families are welcome to ask questions and learn about our services while exploring funding or planning for future residential needs.An initial conversation does not guarantee funding or reserve a placement. If waiver funding is needed, eligibility, enrollment, and service authorization must be in place before Medicaid-funded services can begin.

Individuals, family members, guardians, support coordinators, healthcare professionals, and other members of a person’s support team may contact Bridgeway.You do not need to have every answer before reaching out. If you already have a support coordinator, including them early can help with gathering records, reviewing funding, and coordinating the referral.

The admission process begins with a conversation about the individual’s needs, preferences, current living situation, and desired timeline.Next steps may include reviewing relevant assessments and service plans, confirming funding, discussing available settings, and arranging introductions or visits when appropriate.Admission depends on the individual’s choice, Bridgeway’s ability to meet their needs, compatibility, available capacity, and completion of required approvals and admission documents.

Yes. The individual’s voice, choices, and goals are central to planning. Families, guardians, and other trusted people participate according to the individual’s wishes, consent, and any applicable legal authority.Supports should reflect what matters to the person—including relationships, interests, cultural preferences, daily routines, and opportunities for greater independence.

Residential planning can include continued participation in work, a day program, and other meaningful activities.During the referral process, we discuss the person’s schedule, transportation needs, existing providers, and how services can be coordinated.Specific arrangements depend on the individual’s plan, applicable authorizations, and available resources.

Contact Bridgeway to discuss the service you are seeking, your preferred location, and the individual’s anticipated support needs. Openings and placement timelines vary.Whether you are planning ahead or exploring a current need, we welcome the opportunity to learn what matters to you and discuss the next steps.