If you are a person with OPWDD eligibility, and live at home with one or more non-paid family members or caregivers, and you are not approved for the Medicaid waiver, then you may be able to receive Family Support Services (FSS).
FSS help families care for a loved one with a developmental disability at home. These services are either provided directly by OPWDD or through nonprofit agencies. OPWDD-eligible participants do not have to enroll in Medicaid to receive these services.
Programs vary by region and may include:
- Advocacy
- After school programs
- Behavioral support
- Crisis services
- Family Reimbursement
- Family counseling and training
- Information and referral
- Parent and sibling support groups
- Recreation or camp
- Respite
- Service access
- Social skills training
- Specialized equipment and home modifications
- Transportation
The two most commonly received FSS are respite and family reimbursement.
Respite
These are services that allow caregivers to take a break. Respite can be provided in the home or out of the home, during the day, evenings or overnight. Families or primary caregivers may use these services during emergencies such as illness, hospitalization, death, or sudden unplanned travel.
Family Reimbursement
This service allows reimbursement (payment) to families for items and services that they are not able to get through private sources, early intervention or school services. The reimbursed item or service must be related to the individual’s intellectual or developmental disability and be approved to meet their needs. Reimbursement of up to $3,000 per year is available. Examples of reimbursed items or services are clothing, recreation programs, camp, respite, supplements, and electronic devices.
To learn more you can visit OPWDD’s website on the statewide Family Support Services committee.
