Initiative moves developmentally disabled residents back to NJ

LANGHORNE, Pa. (WPVI) -- 'Returning Home to New Jersey' is an initiative that's moving hundreds of New Jersey residents with developmentally disabilities, who get care at large out-of-state facilities to small group homes within the state. For some the transition is smooth but for others, families fear it will be devastating.

Jo Ann Martone has been working with 44-year-old Ellen Petroff for more than a decade.

Ellen was nine when she got the flu. A high fever lead to seizures which lead to brain damage.

Ellen has limited control of her muscles as well as balance and swallowing problems.

She's lived at Woods in Langhorne, Pennsylvania for the past 30 years. It provides care including medical, dental, personal and behavioral for people with disabilities.

"This is maintaining the best possible quality of life for her which is what my goal is," said Martone.

However soon Ellen and many others will be forced to move in compliance with the Division of Developmental Disabilities 'Returning Home New Jersey' Initiative which started in 2009.

The state's website says it will:

- Help bring families closer together

-Provide community-based, homelike settings for adults, some of whom have lived in institutional settings for many years

-Increase New Jersey's ability to receive federal matching funds by providing care in New Jersey

A spokesperson for the division told Action News they didn't have anyone available for an on-camera interview.

However they said this initiative will save the state more than $20 million.

She also said anyone moved will be placed in a home that meets their personal and medical needs.

Ellen's mother Judy McCabe fears that won't happen.

"She will never get the stimulation she gets here, she will sit in a chair and vegetate. This is what has kept her alive and her health has improved," said McCabe.

Her husband says they're grateful the state has covered Ellen's care but feels moving her from her home of 30 years is inhumane.

"How can they decide and make a decision for our daughter without being able to understand her handicap. I would like to see the state of New Jersey make some compassionate decisions," said Bob McCabe.

The McCabes are not alone. The state says there are 400 adults who still need to be moved.

For some, it won't be a problem but many families with loved ones that have more complex needs are concerned.

Officials said there will be no exemptions.

More information:

Returning Home New Jersey

Woods Services in Langhorne,PA