After much preparation and anticipation, Shalva’s first independent living home opened this past summer. The apartment is designed and set up in such a way which allows the residents to successfully integrate and participate in community life. Each resident has gained a sense of pride- as they too have taken the next step in adulthood, living independently from their parents and families of origin . This feeling benefits each one of them in tremendous ways by enhancing their sense of belonging to a greater community, boosting feelings of confidence and independence and raising the bar in quality of life. Shalva intends to expand the Independent Living program to accommodate the growing demand. Plans for more independent living homes, for both men and women, are currently in the works.