Oregon Mennonite Residential Services is a faith-based organization that grew out of the efforts of several Mennonite and Mennonite Brethren individuals in the Willamette Valley who shared a passion to improve the quality of life for individuals experiencing developmental disabilities. The original intent of the founders was to operate one or two homes to serve families within the participating churches. However the focus broadened after contact with state licensing revealed there were many people already in the system who needed residential services due to the closing of the Fairview Training Center in Salem. This was an immediate need to which the group felt compelled to respond.
OMRS has had continuous contracts with both Linn and Yamhill Counties since it began operating group homes in 1986. In that year, one home was opened in Albany and one in McMinnville. OMRS now provides residential and support services to 39 individuals in eight group homes located in McMinnville, Albany, and Sweet Home.
Residents come to OMRS group homes through referrals from county Developmental Disabilities Programs, which also provide case management services for our residents. It is the intent of OMRS and the county making the placement that residents remain in these homes long term, for as long as their needs can be met in a residential setting.
