Frequently Asked Questions

Residential Services

Can I receive residential services from the Nashua Center but attend a day program at different agency?

Although the Nashua Center is a multi service agency it is not necessary for you to receive all of your services from us. If you currently receive day supports from another agency or have an interest in receiving them from one you may do so.
How do I receive residential supports from the Nashua Center?

If it has been determined that you are eligible to receive supports from your local area agency and you have an interest in our program then you would need to contact us to begin the application process. We currently provide supports to individuals who receive services from Region 6 Gateways Community Services in Amherst, Brookline, Hollis, Hudson, Litchfield, Mason, Merrimack, Milford, Mt. Vernon, Nashua, and Wilton and Region 10 Community Support Services in Atkinson, Chester, Danville, Derry, Hampstead, Newton, Pelham, Plaistow, Salem, Sandown, and Windham.
How do you determine if someone lives in a group home or in a foster care home?

We find most people prefer the individualized supports they receive in the foster care settings. As an agency we also believe strongly in that service model and it fits into our mission statement perfectly. Our group homes are small and we do not always have a room available. Ultimately the decision is yours to make.
I have an interest in your program but would like more information, what should I do?

Contact the Coordinator of Residential Services to discuss the program in greater detail. He can also set up a time to tour some of the residences that we currently supervise. The best way to get an idea of exactly what we have to offer might be to see it. We have two small group homes in Nashua and the individuals we support in foster care settings are happy to show you their home and talk about how the program works.

LIFE-OP

Can LIFE-OP be individualized for the needs of new students?

The LIFE-OP Coordinator meets with every student and their families to create individualized competitive programs to meet the needs and goals of each student.
Does LIFE-OP assist with transitioning from HS or other programs?

Yes. LIFE-OP meets with the previous school/program and designs an individualized transition plan comfortable for all individuals (students and families).
Does LIFE-OP provide transportation?

Yes. Transportation is provided to the student for accessing the community.
How does a student receive funding to attend LIFE-OP?

A.) If a student is under the age of 21 years old, a contract will be negotiated through the school district in which the student has been attending

B.) If the student is 21 years old or over, funding is allocated via the local area agency.
Is LIFE-OP an acronym?

LIFE-OP stands for Learning Independence through Fundamental Educational Opportunities
What are some of the campus activities at NCC in which students participate?

Some students attend classes, are involved in clubs and organizations (e.g., Early Childhood Club, Rotaract Club, Cross Country Team), and students are able to utilize all of NCC ‘s facilities ( e.g., computer lab, weight room, atrium, library ,gym, café).
What are the hours of LIFE-OP?

This depends on the needs and goals of individual students and their families but generally hours of operation are 8:30AM and 3:30PM, Monday – Friday, year-round.
What is LIFE-OP?

LIFE-OP is a Post Secondary Education and Vocational Program of Nashua Center for students with developmental disabilities.
What is the age group of the students in Life-OP?

The program is designed for students ranging from 18 to 25, but the student will progress through the program on an individualized basis.
What is the program all about?

LIFE-OP offers a campus-based, structured, and individualized post-secondary and vocational program. This program empowers students by providing opportunities to enhance their general knowledge, develop special interests, engage in campus life, and establish lasting employment connections. The overarching goal is to foster personal growth and independence.
What types of job training and opportunities does LIFE-OP provide its students?

The students have a variety of jobs in different companies both paid positions and volunteer opportunities, including but not limited to Tidewater Café, Mass Mutual, McDonald’s, Meals-On-Wheels, and Coffee News.
Where is LIFE-OP?

Nashua Community College

The Children's Pyramid

Can my child receive services if I work full time?

We can see your child at their childcare center or at your home with a family member or childcare provider. You will receive a progress note at each session and communication can occur by phone or email.
How do I make a referral?

The Children’s Pyramid provides services to families in Region 6 and Region 10 (Gateways Community Services and Community Crossroads). You can contact the designated area agency to schedule an intake and begin the process:
Region 6/ Gateways Community Services: Contact Roxanne Bouchard to schedule an intake at 603-459-2775
Amherst, Brookline, Hollis, Hudson, Litchfield, Mason, Merrimack, Milford, Mt. Vernon, Nashua, and Wilton.
Region 10/ Community Crossroads: Contact Tammy Dudal to schedule an intake at 603-893-1299
Atkinson, Chester, Danville, Derry, Hampstead, Newton, Pelham, Plaistow, Salem, Sandown, Windham.
What does an evaluation look like?

A Family Service Associate from TCP will contact you to schedule a multidisciplinary evaluation. A multidisciplinary team includes two of the following: Speech and Language Pathologist, Physical Therapist, Occupational Therapist, and an Educator. Our team will play and interact with your child and we will also be asking you questions to learn as much as we can about your child. The evaluation takes approximately 2 hours.
What happens when my child turns 3?

The Children’s Pyramid will assist you in the transition process to access services through your school district or within the community.
Will my child be eligible?

The Children’s Pyramid (TCP) will evaluate your child to determine eligibility. Your child would need to have a developmental delay of 33% or greater, have an established condition, atypical behavior, or is at risk for substantial developmental delay.

Adult Day Services

Do we provide therapies services?

We provide consultative services and carry over, and will coordinate out-patient services as needed. We monitor all equipment and wheelchair needs as well as coordinate and attend all of the appointments.
Do we provide transportation?

All transportation is determined on a case by case basis with consideration given to funding, vehicle availability, and location.
Does Adult Day Services have a nurse on staff?

Yes, Adult Day Services has a Medical Services Supervisor (registered nurse) on staff that is available during program hours.
What services do we provide?

We provide services in a number of ways. We provide one on one community based and two on one building based programming with a focus on work, volunteer, physical therapy, individual interest based activities, and enhanced social opportunities. We also provide one on one community and/or home based alternative educational programming for individuals ages 16 to 21.
What time is day programming available?

General hours of operation are: Monday through Friday from 9:00AM to 3:00PM. However, depending on the needs and goals of the individual and their family flexibility in days and hours are available.