Family Matters Adult Rehab opens in New Madrid

Susan Decker cuts the ribbon to officially open Family Matters Adult Rehab at 599 Main St. in New Madrid as Christina McWaters, executive director of the New Madrid Chamber of Commerce sends confetti flying. The business ofers adult rehabilitation services for those with developmental disabilities. Standing with Decker is Rebecca Fields who owns the business along with Johnna Sprouse. (Jill Bock/Standard Democrat)

NEW MADRID, Mo. — A new New Madrid business assists adults with developmental disabilities.

The New Madrid Chamber of Commerce hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony Nov. 16 for Family Matters Adult Rehab, 599 Main St.

Owned by Rebecca Fields and Johnna Sprouse, the director of Family Matters Rehab is Susan Decker.

According to Decker, the business offers adult rehabilitation for individuals with developmental disabilities. The staff works with clients to develop their independent living skills, teaching them about such things as stranger awareness, hygiene, the need for boundaries and cooking.

To enhance clients’ social skills they go on community outings, such as bowling and to the movies as well as participate in equine therapy. These outings, Decker said, provide a way to teach clients how to be safe within their communities.

Currently, Family Matters has 17 clients with such disabilities as autism, Down’s Syndrome and mental retardation. However, Decker said, there are able to serve even more of those in need of their services.

The director encouraged anyone interested in learning more about Family Matters Adult Rehab to stop by the facility for a tour. Volunteers are also welcomed, Decker said.

The center is open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information contact Decker at 573-703-6591 or by email at susand1113@yahoo.com.