Family Support Center

A Hub of Information & Resources

We are honored to have been selected by the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS) as a Family Support Center within the Merrimack Valley. Family Support has been at the core of our agency’s vision since its inception. With offices in both Haverhill and Newburyport, we are here to serve individuals with I/DD who live within our communities and the families who care for them.

Connect With Us:

To schedule a one hour, consult please fill out the Intake Form below:

Referral Form

Formulario de referencia

July Happenings

For additional support contact:

Andrea Morris, Director of Family Support & Advocacy amorris@thearcofghn.org or 978-373-0552 x211
Sreya Shepard, Family Support Center Manager, sshepard@thearcofghn.org or 978-373-0552 x241
Rowan DeAza, Bilingual Family Support Navigator rdeaza@thearcofghn.org or 978-373-0552 x216

Family Support Hours:

Monday-Friday from 9am to 5pm, appointments preferred. Extended hours are offered by appointment only.

Our Services

Family Advisory Council

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Information & Resources

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Social & Recreation

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Family Supports we Provide

Information and Referral resources throughout the lifespan
Support Groups and Individual Consultations
Opportunities to meet other families with similar challenges
Workshops and Trainings
Provide support on topics such as Social Security, Educational Advocacy, and Financial Planning
Share expertise in transition from High School to Adult Services
DDS approved Flexible Funding (referral only)
Navigation support during times of crisis or transition (referral only)

Eligibility Requirements

Live in the Merrimack Valley – Amesbury, Andover, Boxford, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Lawrence, Merrimac, Methuen, Newbury, Newburyport, North Andover, Rowley, Salisbury, or West Newbury.

Be eligible, or potentially eligible, for services from the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) – Families must be caring for a loved one who has a developmental disability.

Referral from DDS (for Flexible Funding or Navigation only)
Your family member has a referral from the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS).

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