July is Disability Pride Month in New York. It’s very fitting since we also celebrate the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. When I recently posted on social media about Disability Pride Month, someone commented, “Why am I supposed to…
Continue ReadingMillions of Americans are receiving a stimulus payment from the federal government. For people with disabilities, this payment may count as an asset and reduce means-tested benefits unless it is spent or put into an ABLE savings account within…
Continue ReadingInterim Guidance on Home Visits, Community Outings, Day Services and Return to Residences After Extended Home Visits Now Available Dear Friends and Colleagues: OPWDD is pleased to announce that guidance has been released, and posted on the OPWDD website, which…
Continue ReadingWhistleblower Responsibilities and Protections A whistleblower is a person who voluntarily provides information about dishonest or illegal activities occurring at an organization. Organizations include a government department, a public company or a private organization that bills Medicaid for services. Whistleblower…
Continue ReadingLIFEPlan believes it is important to connect with other organizations and groups that support the developmental disabilities community. Below are some Facebook pages and groups that we have connected to on Facebook and encourage our Members, Families and MFA Council…
Continue ReadingThe Community Resources tool was designed by LIFEPlan in collaboration with other NYS CCO’s to support people with various needs during a time of crisis. This easy-to-use database allows people to search resources by county to discover supports available. Click…
Continue ReadingEleven-year-old LIFEPlan member Ethan James is on a mission. A mission to bring smiles to people’s faces during the COVID-19 pandemic and the world of social isolation. Years ago, Ethan and his father spent time drawing together as a therapeutic tool.Drawing was a passion…
Continue ReadingMany LIFEPlan members are or have been involved with SANYS over the years. But what is SANYS? SANYS is a statewide self-advocacy organization founded, and led, by people with developmental disabilities for people with disabilities. Their mission, “Speaking Up for Ourselves and Others”. With many local…
Continue ReadingThere are many changes and adjustments people are making as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. One is to figure out how to best use the resources available to us including stretching our budgets even further. LIFEPlan came across information about Lifeline, a New York State Lifeline Discounted Telephone…
Continue ReadingPer the Governor’s Executive Order, CCO Health Homes fall within designated Essential Businesses, and Care Management Staff are essential workers. Care Managers’ should continue to work from home while supporting members. This notice is to confirm that your agencies, which provide services to individuals with developmental disabilities and are operated, certified, authorized or funded by…
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