Are Snacks Allowed for Residents in a Group Home Setting?

The short answer is yes, residents in group homes generally have the right to buy and eat snacks such as candy. However, like most things in a shared living environment, there is a “but” involved regarding health, safety, and individual care plans.

Here is a breakdown of how snack rights work in a group home setting.

The Right to Personal Possessions

Under most state and federal disability laws, individuals living in group homes have the same basic rights as anyone else. This includes the right to:

• Own personal property: This includes food and snacks purchased with their own money.
• Access food at any time: Federal rules generally state that residents should have access to food at any time, not just during scheduled mealtimes.

Common Restrictions and “the Fine Print”

While the right to have a Snickers bar exists, a group home can legally place restrictions on snacks under specific circumstances:

1. Medical and Dietary Necessity

If a resident has a documented medical condition, the house staff may limit certain foods.

• Example: If a resident has severe diabetes, their individual service plan (ISP) might restrict high-sugar candy for their own safety.
• Example: If a resident has a swallowing disorder (dysphagia), hard candies might be restricted to prevent choking.

2. The Individual Service Plan (ISP)

Every resident has a customized care plan. If a resident struggles with weight management or impulsive eating that affects their health, the resident (or their guardian) and the care team might agree to “locked” or “supervised” snack access. These restrictions must be documented and reviewed regularly.

3. House Rules and Sanitation

Group homes are shared spaces. Staff can implement reasonable rules to keep the home clean, such as:

• Requiring food to be kept in a sealed container to prevent pests.
• Asking residents to eat “messy” snacks in the kitchen rather than in carpeted bedrooms.

4. Financial Supervision

If the group home manages a resident’s finances, they may intervene if a resident is spending an unsustainable amount of money on snacks instead of essential needs.

What If Rights are Being Violated?

If a group home is banning candy or snacks simply because it’s “easier for the staff” or as a form of punishment, that may be a violation of the resident’s rights. Residents or guardians should check the resident bill of rights provided by the state’s Department of Developmental Services (or equivalent agency).

If you’re a guardian, always check the Individualized Service Plan (ISP). Any restriction on food must be written there; if it isn’t, the resident should generally have free access.