Covenant HomeCare
Alternative Family Living (AFL)
Alternative Family Living (AFL) is a home-based care program for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities. In this setting, a person lives with a trained AFL Provider who gives daily help and support in a family home. The goal is to create a safe and caring place where each person can grow, learn, and feel included.
This service helps people build more independence while receiving the care and attention they need each day.
Levels of Support in Alternative Family Living
This program is part of the NC Innovations Waiver and 1915(i) programs. The NC Innovations Waiver and 1915(i) programs define different levels of support to make sure each person receives care that fits their needs.
Level I – Low Support
- Occasional supervision as needed
- More independence with daily activities
- Few or no medical or behavioral challenges
Level II – Moderate Support
- Regular daily supervision and assistance
- Some help with personal care and daily routines
- Mild to moderate behavioral or health needs
Level III – High Support
- Ongoing daily supervision
- Help with most activities of daily living
- Behavioral, medical, or cognitive needs that require structured support
Level IV – Intensive Support
- 24/7 supervision and care
- High medical or behavioral needs
- May require skilled interventions or constant oversight
Alternative Family Living in North Carolina
Alternative Family Living homes are available across North Carolina, including Charlotte, Concord, Albemarle, and nearby areas. Families can find homes that fit their needs and location preferences.
If you are searching for “alternative family living near me” or “AFL providers in North Carolina”, this service can help you find the right match.
Step
Assessment and Matching
We start by learning about the person who needs care. We look at their needs, preferences, and personality to find a good match with an AFL Provider and home.
Step
Home Approval
Each AFL home goes through safety checks and state inspections before they’re approved to provide the service.
Step
Move-In and Integration
After a match is made, the person moves into the provider’s home. They get daily support and become part of the household.
Step
Ongoing Oversight and Support
Covenant checks in often to make sure that care stays attentive and consistent. We offer training and support to providers at all times.
Who Alternative Family Living Is For
- People with intellectual or developmental disabilities who want a family-style home.
- Individuals receiving services through the NC Innovations Waiver or 1915(i) programs, ranging from Level I (low support) to Level IV (intensive support).
- Families looking for a smaller, home-like setting instead of a group home.
- Caring people who want to become AFL Providers and help others in their own home.
Who Qualifies
To receive Alternative Family Living (AFL) services through Covenant, the person must meet one of the following:
-
NC Innovations Waiver – Residential Supports (Levels I–IV)
-
1915(i) Candidates – Residential Supports (Levels III–IV)
Our team works with Managed Care Organizations (MCOs) to help with eligibility, paperwork, and next steps.
A Home That Feels Like Family
Covenant believes everyone deserves a home that feels safe and welcoming. Whether you need an AFL home in NC or want to become an AFL provider, our team is ready to help.
Contact Covenant HomeCare to learn more about Alternative Family Living in North Carolina and start your journey toward a caring home environment.
Explore Becoming an AFL Host Provider
So you’re interested in opening your home to someone through Alternative Family Living (AFL). This isn’t a traditional job, it’s a lifestyle choice. Hosting someone with a disability in your home requires care, commitment, and patience, but it can be deeply rewarding.
We’ve created a simple, step-by-step pathway to help you understand what hosting really involves so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your household.
Direct Support
Professionals
Individuals Served
Since 2010
