WALTHAM (March 7, 2024) – Funding secured by Massachusetts Congresswoman Lori Trahan’s office has created a ground-breaking collaboration of four trusted human services agencies supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) underserved since the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the dogged efforts of state leadership and partner organizations, the post COVID impact has left many people with autism, and other intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) with no or inadequate assistance.
Although many programs in the MA-3 district have resumed providing services, one in every three individuals with IDD in Massachusetts is unable to access the support they received before the pandemic. This includes individuals who turned 22 since March 2020, who may not have transitioned into adult services.
Minute Man Arc, The Arc of Massachusetts, The Arc of Opportunity, and Incompass Human Services initiated a pilot program, “Bridge to Brighter Futures,” to provide some resources to individuals with IDD and their families while they are in this waiting period. The goal will be to return them to adequate person-centered services working with the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) and other entities. By reaching out to families and determining the individual’s goals, the agencies will tailor ways to further inclusion, including creating support groups, targeting individual goal attainment, providing family training, and case management.
“This unique collaboration made possible by Lori Trahan’s federal support, addresses outreach gaps in District 3. The project will reduce isolation, increase community engagement, and empower families with knowledge and tools to navigate today’s support environment,” says Leo Sarkissian, Executive Director of the Arc of Massachusetts. “Many families still struggle to access services. This project serves as a bridge to access the support they need.”
Although the program is only open to residents living in Trahan’s district of MA-3, anyone outside the district who requests assistance will be referred to local resources such as the DDS area office, and their circumstances will be tracked by The Arc of Massachusetts.
For more information on this program, visit https://thearcofmass.org/bridge
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The Arc of Massachusetts’ mission is to enhance the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including autism, and their families. We fulfill this through advocacy for community supports and services that foster social inclusion, self-determination, and equity across all aspects of society. Visit thearcofmass.org to learn more.
