Every family needs a helping hand sometimes. For families caring for a child with a disability, having the right support can make everyday life a little easier.
The Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging's Family Support Program helps eligible Tennesseans pay for services and supports that can improve daily life at home and in the community. The program is designed to give families more flexibility by helping to cover disability-related needs that other programs may not always cover.
Depending on your family's needs, funding may be available for things like respite care, before- or after-school care, transportation, specialized equipment, home or vehicle modifications, personal assistants, and other services that help children and adults participate in everyday activities.
Support looks different for every family. One family may need help paying for adaptive equipment, while another family may benefit from transportation or short-term caregiving. The program allows families to receive assistance based on their unique needs and available funding.
Children and adults who are Tennessee residents and meet the program's eligibility requirements may qualify. The program is intended for individuals with significant support needs, and some people who receive certain long-term services through other programs may not be eligible. Reviewing the eligibility guidelines is a good first step to learning whether the resources may be available to your family.
If you're looking for ways to make daily routines a little easier or searching for resources that can help your family, it's worth taking a few minutes to learn more about the Family Support Program. You may discover services that help your child thrive while providing added support for your entire family.
Visit the Tennessee Department of Disability and Aging’s Family Support Program webpage to learn more about eligibility, available services, and how to apply.