Urgent push for residential support amid growing wait lists
August 28, 2024 | Department of Public Health, Departments and Agencies, Organizations, Executive, Connecticut
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During a recent government meeting, officials discussed pressing issues surrounding residential services and wait lists for individuals with disabilities. The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) highlighted that while there are no wait lists for waiver services, there is a significant wait list for residential supports associated with some waivers. This situation is expected to worsen as more medically complex patients survive into adulthood, necessitating a review of current resources and planning.
Representative Case emphasized the importance of proactive measures to address the anticipated surge in demand for residential services, particularly as children transition out of school systems. He noted that approximately $15 million in funding is available to develop residential housing, with a stipulation that 50% of new housing must accommodate individuals coming off the wait list. However, he expressed frustration over the slow progress in utilizing these funds.
The meeting also touched on the need for better communication among various agencies, including the Department of Children and Families (DCF) and the Department of Corrections, to ensure that individuals with disabilities receive appropriate housing and support services. A liaison has been established within the Office of Policy and Management (OPM) to facilitate this coordination.
Looking ahead, the group discussed the upcoming annual report due to the Connecticut General Assembly's Public Health Committee and planned to hold a virtual meeting in September to finalize it. Future meetings will focus on resources available within the state to support families and individuals with disabilities, with an emphasis on legislative advocacy as the new session approaches in January.
The meeting concluded with a call for ideas on legislative priorities, particularly concerning waivers for individuals with rare diseases and other high medical needs. The officials expressed a commitment to addressing these critical issues and improving the support system for individuals with disabilities in the state.
Representative Case emphasized the importance of proactive measures to address the anticipated surge in demand for residential services, particularly as children transition out of school systems. He noted that approximately $15 million in funding is available to develop residential housing, with a stipulation that 50% of new housing must accommodate individuals coming off the wait list. However, he expressed frustration over the slow progress in utilizing these funds.
The meeting also touched on the need for better communication among various agencies, including the Department of Children and Families (DCF) and the Department of Corrections, to ensure that individuals with disabilities receive appropriate housing and support services. A liaison has been established within the Office of Policy and Management (OPM) to facilitate this coordination.
Looking ahead, the group discussed the upcoming annual report due to the Connecticut General Assembly's Public Health Committee and planned to hold a virtual meeting in September to finalize it. Future meetings will focus on resources available within the state to support families and individuals with disabilities, with an emphasis on legislative advocacy as the new session approaches in January.
The meeting concluded with a call for ideas on legislative priorities, particularly concerning waivers for individuals with rare diseases and other high medical needs. The officials expressed a commitment to addressing these critical issues and improving the support system for individuals with disabilities in the state.
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