Jake's Farm in the Dell lauded as "shining example" of cooperation

Three state legislators and representatives from the Department of Public Health and Human Services visited the future site of Jake’s Farm in the Dell on Monday.

The home in Ronan for adults with severe autism spectrum disorder and other developmental disabilities was partially funded with a $400,000 construction grant approved by the state legislature in 2023. The project was spearheaded by the efforts and dedication of Jake and Julie Janssen, whose son, Jake, passed away in 2023 at age 28.

Representative Courtenay Sprunger, Senators Shane Morigeau and Mike Cuffe, and Lindsey Carter of the DPHHS Developmental Disability Program were on hand Monday to see the project and discuss the innovative state grant that helped launch construction of the new facility.

The 2023 legislature approved the $400,000 in funds through House Bill 952, which was signed into law by the governor on May 22, 2023. Rep. Sprunger carried the bill during the session, with key support from Sen. Morigeau, who partnered with Sprunger to develop the legislation, and Sen. Cuffe, who helped pass the bill into law.

“Families forced to send their adult children to out-of-state facilities due to limited provider capacity was something we knew we needed to tackle,” Sprunger said. “Jake’s Farm in the Dell will help fill a much-needed void, providing Montana adults with autism an opportunity to live and thrive in the communities they love.”

She described the Janssens as “a shining example of what is possible when a few people dedicate themselves to making Montana a better place.”

HB 952 created a program that provides grants for the construction of facilities designed and equipped to provide services to individuals with autism spectrum disorders. To be eligible for these grant funds, organizations are required to match the grant amount with funding from public or private sources.

“Adults with autism need residential facilities where they can be cared for, live among their community, and have educational opportunities and job placement,” Janssen said. “They deserve to have an independent life, close to their families, who are frequently their only connections and friends in the world.”

“To see this project progressing along is amazing,” Morigeau said. “I congratulate the Janssen family and the Ronan community for coming together to support this work that will provide numerous opportunities for individuals with disabilities for years to come.”