Residential Care for Children with Developmental Delays

A residential community for youth ages 7–21 where they have access to skilled and compassionate care from our team members while attending local public schools.

Donate to Youth In Care

A Safe Haven for Healing and Hope

At Schippel House, Hoyleton Youth and Family Services provides a warm and supportive home for children and young adults in foster care who face severe developmental delays and intellectual challenges. Our program is uniquely designed to nurture, protect, and empower youth whose needs go beyond traditional foster placements.

HOW IT WORKS

A Place to Grow, Learn, and Belong

Schippel House serves as a residential community for children and youth ages 7 to 21 who are low-functioning and on the autism spectrum. Youth attend local public schools while having access to skilled and compassionate care from our team members.

Referral and Admission Process

Youth are referred to us through DCFS, DHS, or ISBE, and each referral is carefully reviewed. Depending on the source and the youth’s circumstances, we request documentation such as:

CANS/IM-CANS assessments
Current IEPs and educational records
Psychological evaluations (including IQ and diagnoses)
Medical information and treatment plans

We accept youth with IQ levels between 20–50 and carefully screen to ensure safety for all residents. Because Schippel House is co-ed, we cannot admit youth with sexually problematic behaviors or severe aggression. We also cannot serve youth with extensive medical needs outside our scope. Whenever possible, we conduct in-person or virtual interviews to make sure the placement is a good fit.

Life at Schippel House

Our philosophy is simple: every child deserves to feel secure, loved, and supported. Schippel House is not just a placement—it’s a home. Youth live here until age 21, with some extensions permitted until just before their 22nd birthday. During this time, we help each child grow toward greater independence while celebrating their individuality.

Transitioning Beyond Schippel

When youth leave Schippel House, they often move to CILA homes, state facilities, or, in some cases, return home to their families. Our commitment does not end at discharge—we continue to support and maintain relationships long after youth transition to their next chapter.

Family Connection and Special Moments

In one special story, Schippel staff helped a young man attend his mother’s wedding despite the challenges of his sensory sensitivities and supervision needs. Staff members drove several hours, calmed him during the trip, and supported him at the reception, making it possible for him to stand alongside the groomsmen and share in his mother’s joy. These moments embody the heart of Schippel House: creating memories and sustaining bonds that last a lifetime.

A Look inside Schippel House

“Honestly, loving these kids as my own and helping them get through the day is a typical day for me at Schippel House."

Kisten, Mental Health Professional at Schippel House

Real Stories. Lasting Impact

Going the Distance for a Family’s Special Day

When EB’s mother was getting married, it seemed impossible for him to attend. But two dedicated team members at Hoyleton’s Schippel House made the journey happen — a 4.5-hour drive, sensory care, and pure love — so he could stand proudly beside his family on her special day.