MassHealth offered opportunities for stakeholders to submit recommendations regarding how to use funding for Home and Community Based Services provided by the federal government in the American Rescue Plan Act. The Commonwealth expects over $400 million in additional HCBS funds between April 1, 2021 and March 31, 2022. The Commonwealth requested input through a defined Request for Information or “RFI.”
Nearly a year ago, during our COVID 19-sprint, someone commented, “embrace the uncertainty.” That approach depends on what we are uncertain about. But though we’ve learned to live with uncertainty, we continue to work together toward more clarity as reopening occurs. This blog and Monday’s Leo Live will touch on two major, related policy areas: Day Services and Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS).
In these challenging times, we are all looking for resources that are uplifting, informative, and forward-looking. The Department of Developmental Services and The Arc of Massachusetts have partnered with Quillo Connect to produce a series of short videos that feature how Massachusetts is using the Charting the LifeCourse framework and tools to make a difference in the lives of individuals and families.
This week, Governor Charlie Baker announced that Massachusetts will “reopen some outdoor Phase 4, Step 2 industries effective May 10th and put plans in place for further reopening on May 29th and August 1st.” What wasn’t said is very important to our community: When will re-opening of our community day and employment services take place?
Imagine if you had an intellectual disability, autism, or other developmental disability and had to rely on family and friends for any support you may need. That was the reality in 1960. Today, eight (8) decades later, there are public benefits which allow many with disabilities to have a full life in the community.
