Service Source Opens Two Homes for Adults With Disabilities in Fayetteville

Service Source has opened two homes in Fayetteville to help adults with disabilities gain independence. The nonprofit launched the housing project as part of its Friendship House Fayetteville program.

Four people live in each apartment. Three are student professionals ages 18 to 40. One has a developmental disability. The organization runs six apartments across two buildings.

"It's just important for them to kind of get that sense of independence away from having so much support," said Kylie Bartlett, program director for Service Source, per ABC11.

Michael Patrick Brown is 31 and moved into one of the homes. Brown has high-functioning autism. The move changed his life, he says.

Brown felt isolated during his school years. The housing program gives him a chance to build connections.

Bartlett said the mission holds personal meaning for her because her aunt lived with Down syndrome.

The organization is looking for student professionals who want to live alongside residents with disabilities, though roommates aren't expected to serve as caretakers. The program offers support to teach everyone how to live together and handle life on their own for the first time.

Rent runs $650 per month for each resident. The team hopes to build six more homes in the next few years.

"Your disability does not define how you're able to live your life. You can still make the best of things no matter what people try to say to you," Brown said.