ADVOCACY

CBCIL provides two types of advocacy:

1. Consumer Advocacy Involves center staff working with persons with disabilities to obtain necessary support services from other agencies in the community.

2. Systemic Advocacy Involves center staff, board members, and volunteers initiating activities to make changes in the community that make it easier for all persons with disabilities to live more independently.

An example of our advocacy work is the Coastal Plains Relocation Program. In order to prepare for relocation to the community, CBCIL provides individuals with disabilities with the support needed to achieve positive relocation results.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Reside in a nursing facility
• Desire to move from nursing facility to the community
• Medicaid eligible

Assistance Provided Through the CPR Project:

• Identify options for community living
• Develop service plan for in-house service and other supports
• Provide transition assistance for institutional to independent living
• Provide service coordination, advocacy and monitoring
• Promote independence in managing and meeting individual needs and responsibilities.
• Provide follow up and monitoring services

Individuals with disabilities in the United States have the right to live in the least restrictive environment. This right, established through the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) of 1990, was upheld in 1999 with the United States Supreme Court Decision in Olmstead vs. L.C. In Addition to having rights, individuals with disabilities wishing to transition to the community from a nursing facility must take on new responsibilities in living in the community.

Questions To Consider Asking Regardibg Relocation:

• How will a Medicaid Waiver program (CBA, CLASS, MDCP, BDMD) meet my needs?
• What other community programs are available?
• What home health agencies will provide the services that I will need?
• Which agencies have experience with individuals like myself?
• Is subsidized housing available in my community and in what areas of town?  
• Do I want to live by myself or with someone else?  
• Will I need help in applying for housing vouchers?
• Is transportation available to the area in which I will be living?
• How do I sign up for special transportation services, if needed?  
• How do I get information about bus routes and medical transportation in my community?
• What supports for people with disabilities are available in the community that will provide counseling skills training, money management, or emergency response systems?
• Where do I start in building a network of support when I move to the community?

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