MOVING
HOME

YOUR GUIDE FOR A SUCCESSFUL TRANSITION FROM A NURSING HOME TO LIVING INDEPENDENTLY

Centers for Independent Living
In Maryland

By federal regulation developed under the 1973 Rehabilitation Act, every state is required to provide a center to assist its residents who wish to live independently. Each state is required to provide information and assistance to allow individuals to achieve this independence.

Center for L.I.F.E. …………………………………….301-884-4498
Serving St. Mary's, Calvert, & Charles Counties

Eastern Shore CIL……………………………………….410-221-7701
Serving Cecil, Kent, Queen Anne's, Talbot, Caroline, Wicomico, Sommerset, & Worcester Counties

Freedom Center…………………………………………301-846-7811
Serving Frederick & Carroll Counties

Independence Now
Prince George's County………………………………..301-277-2839
Montgomery County…………………………………….301-587-4162

Making Choices for Independent Living.…..410-444-1400
Serving Baltimore City, Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Harford & Howard Counties

Resources for Independence…………………..301-784-1774
Serving Garrett, Allegany, & Washington Counties
Table of Contents

Introduction…………………………………………………………….1-14
Appendix…………………………………………………………………15-112
· Abuse……………………………………………………………….17-23
· Adaptive Equipment……………………………………..24-25
· Agencies on Aging…………………………………………..26
· Canine Companions………………………………………..27
· Civil Rights………………………………………………………..28-45
· Developmental Disabilities Administration…..46-50
· Division of Rehabilitation Services………………….51-52
· Financial Assistance………………………………………….53
· Health Department…………………………………………54-58
· Housing……………………………………………………………..59-73
· Legal Assistance………………………………………………..74-77
· Meals-On-Wheels……………………………………………..78-79
· Personal Assistance Services…………………………….80-87
· Personal Identification……………………………………..88-91
· Social Security…………………………………………………..92
· Social Services…………………………………………………..93-99
· Transportation………………………………………………...100-111
· Veterans' Affairs………………………………………………112

This document, produced by Making Choices for Independent Living, 3011 Montebello Terrace, Baltimore, MD 21214, was developed under Grant No. 18-P-91627/3-01 from the Department of Health and Human Services, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. However, the contents herein do not necessarily represent the policy of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and should not imply endorsement by the Federal government. Please include this disclaimer whenever copying or using all or any part of this document in dissemination activities.

This guide is also available in alternative formats and in other languages upon request.

Para una copia de este librito en español, o en Braille en espanñol, llame ud. a MCIL, 410-444-1400, y marque el 17 para dejar un mensaje con Camilo.

This C.I.L. resource guide, combined with your spirit, desire, and determination, can pave the way toward independent living. This book will take you through the steps needed to rejoin the community and provide you with information on important supports and services.

Remember: This is for you! Read it! Devour it! Use it! Allow it to be an integral part of your steps toward freedom and independence. Let it guide you on your journey home.

Mission Statement

The Centers for Independent Living are non-profit agencies of people with disabilities who provide services and advocacy throughout the nation and the state of Maryland.

The mission of the CILs is to provide services to help empower persons with disabilities to lead self-directed, independent, and productive lives in the community.

Independent Living is controlling and directing your own life by making decisions, taking responsibility for your own actions, learning through success and failure, and having opportunities to participate in all aspects of community life.

The core services of the Independent Movement are:
Advocacy
Information and Referral
Independent Living Skills Training
Peer Counseling

INDEPENDENCE
By Nancy Daily

I -- Initiative to make changes
N -- Never accepting barriers
D -- Developing a plan to help myself
E -- Ending self-defeating thoughts and behavior
P -- Prioritizing for my own well-being
E -- Energizing myself with a positive attitude
N -- Nurturing relationships with friends
D -- Daring to take responsibility for myself
E -- Empowering myself with knowledge
N -- Noble always in deed and thought
C -- Caring for myself and others
E -- Equal in a world of inequality

Nikki's Freedom Story

I spent most of 2002, including my 26th birthday, in St. Thomas More Nursing Home in Hyattsville, Maryland. Having no interest in the weekly bingo games and longing for friends my own age, I was bored and miserable. Then I met someone who told me about the Living at Home: Maryland Community Choices Waiver and my life began to change for the better.
I was so excited about being about to move out that I spent my last two months of a nine-month stay completing a flurry of paperwork and constantly staying in touch with my newly acquired case manager, who was helping me achieve my goal.
I completed my application for the waiver program and a financial application, but I still needed to find a place to live, possibly the most important step in my journey. I turned to my family for assistance and was given the opportunity to live with my grandmother, while building-up my strength and finances. I was doing so well that after only four months, I began to look for my own apartment and have been working with housing counselors so that I will be able to buy a home in the near future.
I realize that without my current waiver enrollment and my family supports, I would never have had the strength to leave the St. Thomas More Nursing Home. I am grateful for my opportunities and the freedoms I now have to choose which paths take on my new journey, so I can reach my goals and live my life to its fullest potential.

Introduction

The transitioning period can be difficult. Like an emotional roller coaster, there will be ups and downs. You may become depressed, feel overwhelmed, and think it easier to give up and stay in the nursing home. Stay strong! Life may have many setbacks but that doesn't mean that you can't achieve your goals. The important thing to remember is that you are not alone. Create a personal support system to help you overcome any physical or emotional obstacles that you come across.

Your system may consist of:
· Family and Friends
· Support Groups - Listen and share with others in similar situations.
· CIL Staff
Peer Mentors - people having disabilities who help guide you through the transition process.
Disability Advocates -Working with you and on your behalf to help knock down some of those obstacles.
Other CIL Staff - Providing supports and services in the areas of housing, benefits, independent living skills training, and information & referrals.

Becoming Active

Life in the nursing home is based on routine set for you by the administrators and staff. When you complete the transition and live independently, you are placed in control of your daily routines and activities. You will no longer have your day dictated by others and, for some, this may lead to boredom and questions like, "now what?" CIL staff answers this question with, "now whatever!" You are in charge. You choose your activity level, as well as the activity.

You may, for example:
· Continue Your Education - Go for that diploma, degree, driver's license, or take a class based on your interests.
· Community Involvement - Volunteer, participate in religious services and cultural events, or get a job.

There are many entertaining and/or meaningful activities for you in your community. Set goals for yourself and don't be afraid to dream.

Always Remember

Enjoy your independence but please don't forget that everyone around you is trying to enjoy theirs too. Being a part of the community also means being considerate and respectful of others.

Your local CIL is here for you. If you have a question or are in need of services, call.

Being disabled does NOT mean settling for second best!

This is your time…
Your choice…
Your life…

C.K.'s Freedom Story

My friends and I set-up a ramp for jumping over with our bikes, just like we always did. This day was no different than any other, or so I thought. There were circumstances that were about to occur that would change my, then 20-year-old, life forever.

I opened my eyes, the blinding pain I received from that trivial task startled me and then I discovered that I couldn't breathe. I was on a bed and there were noises I couldn't discern. A nurse walked in and started talking softly to me and I opened my eyes, just a little. Now I knew I was in a hospital, but I couldn't figure out why. I just couldn't remember anything.
My parents came to visit me; I had so many questions, I couldn't get them out fast enough. My parents told me that I had sustained a brain injury after jumping my bike over the ramp, that day, falling, and landing on my head. I'd been in this hospital in a coma for three weeks now. The doctor told them he didn't know how disabled I'd be, that there was no way to define brain injuries, and that everyone is different. What I heard? I would never walk again, I would never be the same again, and, as I saw it, my life was over.

My world was different now. I needed help with everything. I was in therapy three times a day, where I was learning to move my hands again and given speech therapy. After months of therapy in the hospital, the doctors told me that they were transferring me to a nursing home where I would be better off. Better off? A nursing home? I was 20-years-old. Nursing homes aren't for people my age! The only place I wanted to go was back to my home in Carroll County. I begged my parents and my sister to bring me home. My sister contacted several agencies and was finally given answers when she contacted the Freedom Center. She was teamed with an Advocate there who worked with my sister and helped us in my transition home.

A year later, I am living happily at home with my parents, sister, and her son. I love waking up to the sound of my 4-year-old nephew innocently laughing over something silly. I lay awake at night, glowing with happiness that I am finally home. Today, I can move my legs, though I may never walk again. A lot of memories are back, though not all of them. But, I no longer believe that my life is over because I have a disability. I go out with my friends and my family and enjoy our times together.
And, I thank my family EVERY DAY for being so supportive and for working so hard to bring me home!

Tubby's Freedom Story
As told by a CIL Staff Member

Tubby, as he prefers to be addressed, was involved in a life-altering car accident on April 7th, 1968. His neck was broken and he was given up for dead but, just because the doctors quit, it didn't mean that he had to give up. Tubby made a resolve to never give up, to set his sights high and accept his new body in a way that would allow him to be inspiring and significant in the lives of both disabled and able-bodied folks alike. For ten years, Tubby stayed at the Western Maryland Hospital Center, where he received optimal care and treatment, but very little encouragement to pursue his dream of once again living independently in the community.

When an opportunity to live independently presented itself, Tubby had several cards stacked against him which contributed to a challenging transition; difficulty finding a landlord willing to rent to him, discontinuance of his medical assistance benefits (upon returning to the community), a lack of care providers, and a lack of finances. Tubby's solution was to become an outspoken self-advocate and make his transition happen. He persuaded the, then current, Mayor of Hagerstown to rent him an apartment, solicited the return of his medical assistance benefits, secured personal care providers, and finally ended a lifetime struggle with alcohol.

Tubby has been living independently now for twenty-five years. The overall success of his transition should be admired and looked upon for guidance. Tubby currently sits on the boards of several non-profit agencies that assist individuals with disabilities. As a strong advocate for people with disabilities, he has written to many organizations and elected officials, hoping to effect positive changes in such areas as accessible housing & employment and salary increases for care providers.
On a personal note, Tubby has gone on to receive his Associates Degree in Human Services and hopes to secure a position in the social services field that will enable him to continue to be an inspiration to others. Tubby has succeeded in living independently because of his staunch resolve to make things work. He attacks everyday with fervor and resilience that is to be modeled. He continues to be a strong advocate, and a person to truly be admired.

Don't Quit
By Unknown

When things go wrong as they sometimes will
When the road you're trudging seems all uphill
When the funds are low and the debts are high
And you want to smile, but you have to sigh
When care is pressing you down a bit
Rest if you must, but don't you quit.

Success is failure turned inside out
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt
But you never can tell how close you are
It may be near when it seems afar
So stick to the fight when you're hardest hit
It's when things go wrong that you mustn't quit.

Check-Off List
(for Transitioning into the Community)

1) Do you need attendant Care? ______

2) Do you need wound care? ______

3) Do you need oxygen supplies? ______

4) Do you need durable medical equipment or supplies? ______

5) Have you arranged for a community physician to prescribe your medications? ______

6) Has Long Term Care Medical Assistance changed to Community Based Assistance? ______

7) Have you notified Social Security as to change of address? ______

8) Have you made arrangements for food, as needed (Food Stamps/ Meals-On-Wheels/etc)? ______

9) Have you received or set-up transportation training? ______

10) Has a Disability Advocate been notified of your transition to the community? ______

On The Move

(Services I May Need Along The Way)

Information Section

This section contains lists of service agencies and contact information that may be helpful to you during and after your transition home. If you need information not included in this manual, please contact your local CIL for assistance.

Abuse

Forms of Abuse
Adult Protective Services
Sexual & Domestic Abuse
Alcohol & Drug Abuse

•

Forms of Abuse

Physical

• A non-accidental act which results in physical pain or injury, it includes physical coercion and physical restraint.

• Abusive Physical Behavior

· Includes hitting, slapping, burning, pushing, punching, pinching, biting, arm twisting, cutting, hair pulling, forced confinement in room, chair, or bed.

Sexual

• Non-consensual sexual contact, language or exploitative behavior.

• Abusive Sexual Behaviors

· Includes rape, indecent assault, sexual harassment, sexual interference.

Social

• Restricting or stopping social contact with others and stopping or restricting activities.

• Abusive Social Behavior

· Includes being discouraged or stopped from seeing other people, being prevented from joining in any activities in or outside the residential care facility.

 

Financial

• The illegal, improper use and/or mismanagement of a person's money, property, or resources.

• Abusive Financial Behavior

· Fraud, stealing, forgery, embezzlement, reluctance to pay for accounts or debts, unwillingness to bring items in for the person, withholding funds, forcing person to hand over management of their finances, forcing person to change his Will, etc.

Psychological/Emotional

• Language or actions designed to intimidate another person and is usually intended to maintain a "hold of fear" over the person.

• Abusive Psychological/Emotional Behavior

· Includes treating an adult like a child, emotional blackmail, intimidation, threats or restricting access to others, threats of punishment or abandonment, withdrawal of affection, denying a person their rights, humiliation, blaming, name calling, insults, silence, shouting, coercing.

 

Neglect

• Failure of a care giver to provide necessities or blocking the provision of basic needs being provided. This can be deliberate or unintentional.

• Abusive Neglectful Behavior

· Not providing adequate clothing and personal items, not allowing adequate medical, dental, or personal care, inappropriate use of medication

Drug Abuse

• The use of illicit drugs or the abuse or prescription or over-the-counter drugs for purposes other than those for which they are indicated or in a manner, or in quantities, other than directed.

Alcohol Abuse

• When a person's use of alcohol interferes with physical, social, or economic functioning.

 

Adult Protective Services Program

This program serves persons age 18 and over who lack the physical or mental capacity to provide for their daily needs. The purpose of this program is to prevent or remedy neglect, self-neglect, abuse, or exploitation of adults who are unable to protect their own interests and are at risk of immediate harm to their own person or to others.

State of Maryland
Department of Human Resources
Community Services Administration

Office of Adult Services
311 West Saratoga Street
Baltimore, Maryland 21201

Phone: 410-767-7384 (Central Office)
Fax: 410-333-0256
E-mail: askoas@dhr.state.md.us
Web: www.dhr.state.md.us

**To report concerns regarding vulnerable adults, contact your local Department of Social Services**

**To report suspected abuse, neglect, or exploitation of at-risk adults, call toll free 1-800-917-7383**

Sexual & Domestic Abuse

Maryland Coalition Against Sexual Assault (MCASA)
1517 Governor Ritchie Highway, Suite 207
Arnold, Maryland 21012

Administration: 410-974-4507
Hotline: 1-800-983-7273

Maryland Network Against Domestic Violence
6911 Laurel Bowie Road, Suite 309
Bowie, Maryland 20815

Administration: 301-352-4574
24-hour Hotline: 1-800-634-3577

Parents Anonymous
410-889-2300

Alcohol & Drug Abuse

Alcohol & Drug Abuse Administration
55 Wade Avenue
Catonsville, Maryland 21228

Phone: 410-402-8600
Fax: 410-402-8601
TTY: 410-528-2258

Baltimore Intergroup of A.A.
8635 Loch Raven Blvd, Suite 4
Baltimore, Maryland 21286

Phone: 410-663-1922

Web: http://baltimoreintergroupaa.org

Narcotics Anonymous - Free State Region
Service Center: 410-566-4022
Helpline: 1-800-317-3222

Adaptive Equipment

Any item, device, or product system that increases, maintains, or improves the functional capabilities of persons with disabilities. These may include, but are not limited to, communication aids, computer access aids, daily living aids, education and learning aids, environmental aids, ergonomic equipment, hearing and listening aids, mobility and transportation aids, prosthetics and orthotics, recreation and leisure aids, seating and positioning aids, and vision and reading aids.

Apria Health Care
Medical Equipment Company
Phone: 1-800-759-7950

AVRS, Inc.
Mobility Products
1509 Vera Avenue
Baltimore, Maryland 21227

Phone: 410-242-0057 or
Toll Free: 1-888-242-0057

Maryland Relay Services
Free to all TTY users
6000 Metro Drive
Baltimore, Maryland 21215

Phone, MD Residents: 711
Phone, Out of State: 1-800-735-2258

Maryland Technology Assistance Program
To obtain loans to purchase equipment
2301 Argonne Drive, Room T-17
Baltimore, Maryland 21218

Voice & TTY: 410-554-9230 or 1-800-832-4827
Fax: 410-554-9237

Web: www.mdtap.org

Maxi-Aides
Hearing aides, amplified phones, etc.
Phone: 1-800-522-6294

American Medical Alarms, Inc.
Toll Free: 1-800-542-0438

Web: www.americanmedicalalarms.com

LifeFone Personal Response Service
Toll Free: 1-800-882-2280
Web: www.lifefone.com

National Center for the Blind
Information on medical equipment--
Phone: 410-659-9314

Local Area Agencies on Aging

Administer programs and services tailored to the needs of elderly citizens, which may include but are not limited to community services, frail elderly services, health, housing, income & financial aid, counseling, education, employment & training, legal services, protective services & guardianship, and transportation. Contact your county agency for specific programs and their eligibility requirements.

Allegany……….…………..301-777-5970
Anne Arundel…......……….410-222-4464
Baltimore City.......…………410-396-1341
Baltimore County…..........…410-887-2594
Calvert........410-535-4606 or 301-855-1170
Caroline…………………….410-479-2093
Carroll………......………….410-876-3363
Cecil…………........………..410-966-5295
Charles………..............……301-934-5423
Dorchester………….………410-221-1930
Frederick………….………..301-694-1604
Garrett………………………301-334-9431
Harford……………………..410-638-3025
Howard………….………….410-313-7212
Kent……….....……………..410-778-2564
Montgomery….....………….240-777-3000
Prince George's…........….....301-699-2696
Queen Anne's……….......…..410-758-0848
Somerset…………..………..410-651-0020
St. Mary's…………..……….301-475-5100
Talbot……………………….410-822-2869
Washington…....……………301-790-0275
Wicomico………..………….410-543-0388
Worcester…….................….410-632-1289

Canine Companions

Providing assistance dogs to persons with developmental or physical disabilities who can demonstrate that a canine companion will enhance their independence or quality of life.

Canine Companions for Independence
1-800-572-BARK
(1-800-572-2275)

Canine Partners for Life
P.O. Box 170
Cochranville, PA 19330

Phone: 610-869-4902

Fidos for Freedom
P.O. Box 5508
Laurel, MD 20726
Phone: 410-880-4178
TTY: 301-570-7570
Web: www.fidosforfreedom.org

Civil Rights
Made Simple

An Overview of Federal laws, written to protect the Civil Rights of people with disabilities.

ADA - American with Disabilities Act

Title I: Employment

· Employers with 15 or more employees must provide qualified individuals with disabilities an equal opportunity.
· Employers may not ask restricted questions about an applicant's disability before a job offer is made.
· Employers are required to make reasonable accommodations for the otherwise qualified individuals with disabilities.

· Complaints:

o Must be filed with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) within 180 days of the date of discrimination

o 300 days if the charge is filed with a designated state or local fair employment practice agency.

o Individual may not file a lawsuit until a "right-to-sue" letter is received from the EEOC

· Local EEOC field office
o Voice: 800-669-4000
o TYY: 800-669-6820
o WEB: www.eeoc.gov

· Publications & Information
o Voice: 800-669-3362
o TYY: 800-800-3302

Title II: State & Local Government Activities

· Requires that state & local governments give people with disabilities an equal opportunity to benefit from all of their programs, services, and activities (i.e. Public education, employment, transportation, recreation, health care, social services, courts, voting, and town meetings).

· They are required to follow specific architectural standards in new construction or alterations of their buildings.

o They must relocate programs or provide access in inaccessible, older buildings. · They must communicate effectively with people who have hearing, vision, or speech disabilities. · They must make reasonable modifications to policies, practices, and procedures, UNLESS they can demonstrate that doing so would fundamentally alter the nature of the service, program, or activity being provided. · Violations may be filed with the Department of Justice within 180 days of the date of discrimination. · For more information, contact:

o U.S. Department of Justice Civil Rights Division 950 Pennsylvania Ave. NW
Disability Rights Section - NYAV
Washington, D.C. 20530
o Voice: 800-514-0301
o TTY: 800-514-0383
o Web: www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/adahom1.htm
Or www.ada.gov

Title II: Public Transportation

· Public transportation authorities may not discriminate against people with disabilities in the provision of their services. · They must comply with requirements for accessibility in newly purchased vehicles, make an effort to purchase or lease accessible used buses, manufacture buses in an accessible manner, and unless an undue burden, provide paratransit where fixed-route buses or rail systems operate.

· Questions &/or Complaints, contact:

o Office of Civil Rights
Federal Transit Administration
U.S. Department of Transportation
400 Seventh St, SW, Room 9102
Washington, D.C. 2059
o Voice/Relay: 888-446-4511
o Web: www.fta.dot.gov/office/civ.htm

Title III: Public Accommodations

· Public accommodations are private entities who own, lease, lease to, or operate facilities such as restaurants, retail stores, hotels, movie theaters, private schools, convention centers, doctors' offices, homeless shelters, transportation depots, zoos, funeral homes, day care centers, and recreation facilities, including sports stadiums and fitness clubs.

o They must comply with basic nondiscrimination requirements that prohibit exclusion, segregation, and unequal treatment. o They must comply with specific requirements related to architectural standards for new and altered buildings. o They must provide reasonable modifications to policies, practices, and procedures. o They must provide effective communication with people with hearing, vision, or speech disabilities. o They must remove barriers in existing buildings. o Courses and exams related to professional, educational, or trade-related applications, licensing, certifications, or credentialing must be provided in an accessible place and manner. o Commercial facilities, such as factories and warehouses, must comply with the ADA's architectural standards for new construction and alterations o Violations may be filed with the Department of Justice.

· For more information, contact:
U.S. Department of Justice
Civil Rights Division
950 Penn Ave, NW
Disability Rights Section - NYAV
Washington, D.C. 20530

o Voice: 800-514-0301
o TTY: 800-514-0383
o Web: www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/adahom1.htm
Or www.ada.gov

Title IV: Telecommunications Relay Services

· Requires telephone companies to establish interstate and intrastate telecommunications relay services 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.

· Requires closed captioning of federally funded public service announcements.

· For more information, contact:

o Federal Communications Commission 445 12th St, SW
Washington, D.C.
o Voice: 888-225-5322
o TTY: 888-835-5322
o Web: www.fcc.gov/egb/dro

Telecommunications Act

· These amendments ensure that people with disabilities will have access to a broad range of products and services, such as telephones, cell phones, pagers, call-waiting, and operator services.

· For more information, contact:

o Federal Communications Commission
445 12th St, SW
Washington, D.C. 20554
o Voice: 888-225-5322
o TTY: 888-835-5322
o Web: www.fcc.gov/cgb/dro

Air Carrier Access Act

· Prohibits discrimination in air transportation by domestic and foreign carriers against qualified individuals with physical or mental impairments.

· For more information or to file a complaint, contact: o Aviation Consumer protection Division U.S. Department of Transportation
400 Seventh St, S.W.
Room 4107, C-75
Washington, D.C. 20590
o Voice: 202-366-2220
o TTY: 202-366-0511
o Web: www.dot.gov/airconsumer

Fair Housing Act

· Prohibits housing discrimination on the basis or race, color, religion, sex, disability, familial status, and national origin.

· Requires owners of housing facilities to make reasonable exceptions in their policies and operations to afford people with disabilities equal housing opportunities.

· Requires landlords to allow tenants with disabilities to make reasonable access-related modifications to their private living space, as well as to common use spaces.

· Requires that new multifamily housing with four or more units be designed and built to allow access for persons with disabilities.

· For more information or to file a complaint, contact:

o Office of Program Compliance and Disability Rights
Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
451 7th St, SW, Room 5242
Washington, D.C. 20410
o Voice: 800-669-9777
o TTY: 800-927-9275
o Web: www.hud.gov/offices/fheo/index.cfm

Voting Accessibility
for the Elderly and Handicapped Act

· Requires polling places across the United States to be physically accessible to people with disabilities for federal elections.

· Where no accessible location is available, a political subdivision must provide an alternative means of casting a ballot on the day of the election.

· For more information, contact:

o U.S. Department of Justice
Civil Rights Division
950 Pennsylvania Ave, NW
Voting Section - 1800G
Washington, D.C. 20530

o Voice/TTY: 800-253-3931

National Voter Registration Act

· Requires all offices of State-funded programs that are primarily engaged in providing services to persons with disabilities to provide all program applicants with voter registration forms, to assist in completing the forms, and to transmit completed forms to the appropriate State official.

· For more information, contact:

o U.S. Department of Justice
Civil Rights Division
950 Pennsylvania Ave, NW
Voting Section - 1800G
Washington, D.C. 20530

o Voice/TTY: 800-253-3931

o Web: www.usdoj.gov/crt/voting

Civil Rights of Institutionalized Persons Act

• Authorizes the U.S. Attorney General to investigate conditions of institutions such as prisons, jails, pretrial detention centers, juvenile correctional facilities, publicly operated nursing homes, and institutions for people with psychiatric or developmental disabilities.

• Allows the Attorney General to uncover and correct deficiencies that seriously jeopardize the health and safety of residents of institutions.

• Does NOT allow for investigations of isolated incidents.

• For more information or to register a complaint, contact:

· U.S. Department of Justice
Civil Rights Division
950 Pennsylvania Ave, NW
Special Litigation Section - PHB
Washington, D.C. 20530

· Voice/TTY: 202-514-6255

· Web: www.usdoj.gov/crt/split

Individuals with Disabilities Education Act

• Requires public schools to make available to all eligible children with disabilities a free appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment appropriate to their individual needs.

• Requires public school systems to develop appropriate Individualized Education Programs (IEP's) for each child.

· Each student's IEP must be developed by a team of knowledgeable persons and must be reviewed, at least, annually.

•For more Information, contact:

· Office of Special Education Programs
Office of Special Education & Rehabilitative Services
U.S. Department of Education
330 C St, SW, Room 3086
Washington, D.C. 20202

· Voice/TTY: 202-205-5507

· Web:www.ed.gov/offices/OSERS/OSEP

Rehabilitation Act

· Prohibits discrimination on the basis of disability in programs conducted by Federal agencies, in programs receiving Federal financial assistance, in Federal employment, and in the employment practices of Federal contractors.

· Section 501

§ Requires affirmative action and nondiscrimination in employment by Federal agencies of the executive branch.

§ For more information or to file a complaint, employees should contact their Equal Employment Opportunity Office

· Section 503

§ Requires affirmative action and prohibits employment discrimination by Federal government contractors and subcontractors with contracts of more than $10,000.

§ For more information, contact:

· Office of Federal Contract Compliance Programs
U.S. Department of Labor
200 Constitution Ave, NW, Room C-3325
Washington, D.C. 20210

· Voice/Relay: 202-693-0106

· Web: www.dol.gov/dol/esa/public/ofcp_org.htm

· Section 504

§ States that no qualified person with a disability shall be excluded from, denied the benefits of, or be subjected to discrimination under any program or activity that either received Federal financial assistance or is conducted by any Executive agency of the U.S. Postal Service.

§ For more information or to file a complaint, contact:

· U.S. Department of Justice
Civil Rights Division
950 Pennsylvania Ave NW
Disability Rights Section - NYAV
Washington, D.C. 20530

· Voice: 800-514-0301

· TTY: 800-514-0383

· Web: www.usdoj.gov/crt/ada/adahom1.htm

or

www.ada.gov

• Section 508

§ Establishes requirements for electronic and information technology development, maintained, procures, or used by the Federal government.

§ Requires Federal electronic and information technology to be accessible to people with disabilities, including employees and members of the public.

§ For more information, contact:

• U.S. General Services Administration
Center for IT Accommodations (CITA)
1800 F St, NW
Room 1234, MC:MKC
Washington, D.C. 20405

· Voice: 202-501-4906

· TTY: 202-501-2010

· Web: www.itpolicy.gsa.gov/cita

Architectural Barriers Act

• Requires that buildings and facilities that are designed, constructed, or altered with Federal funds, or leased by a Federal agency, comply with Federal standards for physical accessibility.

• For more information or to file a complaint, contact:

· U.S. Architectural and Transportation
Barriers Compliance Board
1331 F St, NW, Suite 1000
Washington, D.C. 20004

· Voice: 1-800-872-2253

· TTY: 800-993-2822

· Web: www.access-board.gov

For additional information, contact:

• Regional Disability and Business Technical Assistance Centers

· Voice/TTY: 1-800-949-4232

· Web: www.adata.org

Developmental Disabilities Administration (D.D.A.)

What is a developmental disability?
Commitment and services
Regional Offices

•

What is a Developmental Disability?

In general, the term developmental disability means a severe, chronic disability of an individual that:
· Is attributable to a mental or physical impairment or combination of both;
· Is manifested before the individual reaches age 22;
· Is likely to continue indefinitely;
· Results in substantial functional limitations in three or more of the following areas of major life activity:
o Self-care;
o Receptive and expressive language;
o Learning;
o Mobility;
o Self-direction;
o Capacity for independent living;
o Economic self-sufficiency
· Reflects the individual's need for a combination and sequence of special, interdisciplinary, or generic services, individualized supports, or other forms of assistance that are lifelong or extended duration and are individually planned and coordinated.

Commitment and Services

DDA is committed to enabling all individuals with developmental disabilities to exercise the four principles of self-determination.

• Freedom to make choices

• Authority over services and support

• Responsibility for organizing resources

• Supports necessary to live in the community

Types of Services Offered:

• Family Services

• Residential Services

• Individual Support Services

• Children Services

• Day Services

• Resource Coordination

• Behavioral Support Services

• Community Supported Living Arrangements (CSLA)

• Summer Programs

DDA Regional Offices

Central Maryland
Anne Arundel, Baltimore City & County, Harford, Howard

Rosewood Lane
Owings Mills, MD 21117
Phone: 410-902-4500
Toll Free: 1-877-874-2494
TDD: 410-363-9430
Fax: 410-581-6170

Eastern Shore
Caroline, Cecil, Dorchester, Kent, Queen Anne's, Somerset, Talbot, Wicomico, Worcester

1500 Riverside Drive
Salisbury, MD 21802
Phone: 410-334-6920
Toll Free: 1-888-219-0478
TDD: 1-800-735-2258
Fax: 410-334-6929

Western Maryland
Allegany, Carroll, Frederick, Garrett, Washington

1360 Marshall Street
Hagerstown, MD 21740
Phone: 301-791-4670
Toll Free: 1-888-791-0193
TDD: 301-791-4015
Fax: 301-791-4019

Southern Maryland
Calvert, Charles, Montgomery, Prince George's, St. Mary's

312 Marshall Avenue, 5th Floor
Laurel, MD 20707
Phone: 301-362-5100
Toll Free: 1-888-207-2479
TDD: 301-362-5131
Fax: 301-362-5130

Division of Rehabilitation Services
(DORS)

Assisting people with disabilities to become independent and contributing members of their communities. Programs and services may include vocational evaluation, skills training, academic preparation, and job placement assistance.

DORS Field Office Locations

Central Office
2301 Argonne Drive
Baltimore, MD 21218
Phone: 410-554-9385
Toll Free: 1-888-554-0334
TTY: 410-554-9411
Fax: 410-554-9412
E-mail: dors@dors.state.md.us

Workforce & Technology Center
2301 Argonne Drive
Baltimore, MD 21218
Phone: 410-554-9100
TTY: 410-554-9155
Fax: 410-554-9112
E-mail: wtc@dors.state.md.us

Client Assistance Program
2301 Argonne Drive
Baltimore, MD 21218
Phone: 410-554-9361
TTY: 410-554-9360
Fax: 410-554-9362
E-mail: cap@dors.state.md.us

Disability Determination Services
Suite 310
170 W. Ridgely Road
Timonium, MD 21093
Phone: 410-308-4500
Toll Free: 1-800-492-4283
TTY: 410-308-4550

Fax: 410-308-4400
E-mail: md.dd.Timonium.dds@ssa.gov
Financial Assistance

Consumer Credit Counseling

757 Frederick Road
Baltimore, MD 21228
Phone: 1-800-642-2227
Fax: 410-869-8828
Web: www.cccs-inc.org/index.html

Food Stamps
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA)

Contact your local Dept. of Social Services

Unemployment Insurance

Phone: 1-800-827-4839 (Directory)
E-mail: ui@dllr.state.md.us

Local Health Departments

Public health programs tailored to community needs providing preventative care, immunizations, health education, drug and alcohol abuse counseling, and rabies and communicable disease prevention.

(By County)

Allegany
P.O. Box 1745
12500 Willowbrook Rd
Cumberland, MD 21501
301-777-5600

Anne Arundel
Health Services Building
3 Harry S. Truman Pkwy
Annapolis, MD 21401
410-222-7095

Baltimore City
210 Guilford Ave, 3rd floor
Baltimore, MD 21202
410-396-4387

Baltimore County
Drumcastle Government Center
6401 York Rd, 3rd floor
Baltimore, MD 21212
410-887-3740

Calvert
P.O. Box 980
975 Solomon's Island Rd
Prince Frederick, MD 20678
410-535-5400

Caroline
P.O. Box 10
409 South 7th St
Denton, MD 21629
410-479-0556

Carroll
Box 845
290 S. Center St
Westminster, MD 21158
410-876-2152

Cecil
John M. Byers Health Center
401 Bow St
Elkton, MD 21921
410-996-5550

Charles
P.O. Box 1050
4545 Crain Hwy
White Plains, MD 20695
301-609-6900

Dorchester
3 Cedar St
Cambridge, MD 21613
410-228-3223

Frederick
350 Montevue Lane
Frederick, MD 21702
301-694-1029

Garrett
2008 Maryland Hwy
Mt. Lake Park, MD 21550
301-334-7777

Harford
119 South Hays St, Box 797
Bel Air, MD 21014
410-879-8322

Howard
6751 Columbia Gateway Dr
Columbia, MD 21046
410-313-6300

Kent
125 South Lynchburg St, Box 359
Chestertown, MD 21620
410-778-1350

Montgomery
401 Hungerford Dr, 5th floor
Rockville, MD 20850
240-777-1245

Prince George's
1701 McCormick Dr
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
301-883-7832

Queen Anne's
206 North Commerce St
Centreville, MD 21617
410-758-0720

St. Mary's
21580 Peabody St
P.O. Box 316
Leonardtown, MD 20650
301-475-4330

Somerset County
7920 Crisfield Hwy
Westover, MD 21871
443-523-1700

Talbot
100 South Hanson St
Easton, MD 21601
410-819-5600

Washington
1302 Pennsylvania Ave, P.O. Box 2067
Hagerstown, MD 21742
240-313-3200

Wicomico
108 East Main St
Salisbury, MD 21801
410-749-1244

Worcester
6040 Public Landing Rd, P.O. Box 249
Snow Hill, MD 21863
410-632-1100

Housing

Steps to Housing Assistance
Baltimore Neighborhoods, Inc.
HUD
Public Housing Authorities
Rental Allowance Program

Steps to Housing Assistance

Step One:
· Contact your local housing authority for an application.

Step Two:
· Complete the application and hand-in to housing authority.

Step Three:
· You will be placed on a waiting list with others who have completed an application.

Step Four:
· The housing authority will determine your eligibility for the subsidized housing program.

Step Five:
· You will receive a housing choice/section 8 voucher, if it is determined that you are eligible.

**IMPORTANT: Your voucher expires after 60 days and, should you allow it to expire before finding a home, you will have to re-apply and start the process over again.**

Baltimore Neighborhoods, Inc.
Administration: 410-243-4468
Fair Housing: 410-243-4400
Tenant/Landlord Hotline: 410-243-6007 or
Toll Free: 1-800-487-6007

HUD
Baltimore Field Office
5th Floor
10 S. Howard St
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone: 410-962-2520
Fax: 410-962-1849

***You may also contact your local CIL for housing assistance and information***

Public Housing Authorities
(For information/applications for Section 8 &/or Low rent assistance - by county)

Allegany
701 Furnace St
Suite 1
Cumberland, MD 21502
Phone: 301-759-2880
Fax: 301-759-9415

Anne Arundel
7885 Gordon Ct
Glen Burnie, MD 21060
Phone: 410-222-6200
Fax: 410-222-6214

Baltimore City
417 E. Fayette St
Baltimore, MD 21202
Phone: 410-396-3232
Fax: 410-396-4943

Baltimore County
Drum Castle Government Center
6401 York Rd
Baltimore, MD 21212
Phone: 410-887-4000
Fax: 410-887-3148

Calvert
P.O.Box 2509
Prince Frederick, MD 20678
Phone: 410-535-5010
Fax: 410-535-4286

Caroline
DHR
207 South Third St
Denton, MD 21629
Phone: 410-479-5900
Fax: 410-479-5910

Carroll
10 Distillery Dr, Suite 101
Westminster, MD 21157
Phone: 410-386-3600
Fax: 410-876-5255

Cecil
129 East Main St
Elkton, MD 21921
Phone: 410-996-5245
Fax: 410-996-5256

Charles
8190 Port Tobacco Rd
Port Tobacco, MD 20677
Phone: 301-934-9305
Fax: 301-934-5624

Dorchester
700 Weaver Ave
Cambridge, MD 21613
Phone: 410-228-6856
Fax: 410-228-5553

Frederick
209 Madison St
Frederick, MD 21701
Phone: 301-662-8173
Fax: 301-663-1464

Garrett
DHR
12578 Garrett Hwy
Oakland, MD 21550
Phone: 301-334-5449
Fax: 301-334-5426

Harford
15 South Main St, Suite 106
Bel Air, MD 21014
Phone: 410-638-3045
Fax: 410-893-9816

Howard
6751 Columbia Gateway Dr
Columbia, MD 21046
Phone: 410-313-6320
Fax: 410-313-6399

Kent
DHR
350 High St
Chestertown, MD 21620
Phone: 410-810-7600
Fax: 410-778-1497

Montgomery
10400 Detrick Ave
Kensington, MD 20895
Phone: 301-929-6700
Fax: 301-929-4336

Prince George's
9400 Peppercorn Pl
Suite 200
Largo, MD 20774
Phone: 301-883-5531
Fax: 301-883-9832

Queen Anne's
P.O. Box 327
Centreville, MD 21617
Phone: 410-758-3977
Fax: 410-758-1170

Somerset
DHR
30397 Mt. Vernon Rd
Princess Anne, MD 21853
Phone: 410-677-4200
Fax: 410-677-4300

St. Mary's
P.O. Box 653
Leonardtown, MD 20650
Phone: 301-475-4405
Fax: 301-475-4414

Talbot
900 Doverbrook St
Easton, MD 21601
Phone: 410-822-5358
Fax: 410-822-3213

Washington
44 North Potomac St
Suite 201
Hagerstown, MD 21740
Phone: 301-791-3168
Fax: 301-791-2755

Wicomico
911 Booth St
Salisbury, MD 21801
Phone: 410-749-1383
Fax: 410-749-8792

Worcester
DHR
299 Commerce St
Snow Hill, MD 21863
Phone: 410-677-6800
Fax: 410-677-6810

Rental Allowance Program (RAP)
Local Administering Agencies Contact List
(By County)

Allegany
Dept. of Community Services
112 Baltimore St, suite 201
Cumberland, MD 21502
Phone: 301-777-2372
Fax: 301-777-2126

Anne Arundel
Anne Arundel Housing Commission
P.O. Box 817
7477 Baltimore Annapolis Blvd
Glen Burnie, MD 21060

Baltimore City
Housing Authority of Baltimore City
Dept. of Rental and Assisted Housing
300 Cathedral St
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone: 410-361-9114

Baltimore County
Housing Office of Baltimore County
One investment Pl, suite P-3
Baltimore, MD 21204
Phone: 410-887-2102
Fax: 410-887-3148

Calvert
Housing Authority of Calvert County
480 Main St
P.O. Box 2509
Prince Frederick, MD 20678
Phone: 410-535-5010
Fax: 410-535-4286

Carroll
Bureau of Housing & Community Development
10 Distillery Dr, suite 101
Westminster, MD 21157
Phone: 410-386-3600
Fax: 410-876-5255

Cecil
Dept. of Social Services
170 East Main St
Elkton, MD 21921
Phone: 410-996-0100
Fax: 410-996-0605

Charles
Dept. of Community Services
Housing & Community Services Division
8190 Port Tobacco Rd
Port Tobacco, MD 20677
Phone: 301-934-9305
Fax: 301-934-5624

Dorchester
Dorchester Community Development Corp.
435 High St
Cambridge, MD 21613
Phone: 410-228-3600
Fax: 410-228-4531

Garrett
Garrett County Community Action
104 East Center St
Oakland, MD 21550
Phone: 301-334-9431
Fax: 301-334-8555

Harford
Harford County Housing Agency
15 South Main St
Suite 106
Bel Air, MD 21014
Phone: 410-638-3045
Fax: 410-893-9816

Howard
Howard County Housing Commission
6751 Columbia Gateway Dr
Columbia, MD 21046
Phone: 410-313-6318

Kent
Dept. of Social Services
P.O. Box 670
Chestertown, MD 21620
Phone: 410-810-7600
Fax: 410-778-1497

Montgomery
Housing Opportunities commission
10400 Detrick Ave
Kensington, MD 20895
Phone: 301-929-6725
Fax: 301-929-4325

Prince George's
Dept. of Housing & Community Development
9400 Peppercorn Pl, Suite 200
Largo, MD 20774
Phone: 301-883-5050

Queen Anne's
Queen Anne's County Community Development
P.O. Box 327
1935 4-H Park Rd
Centreville, MD 21617
Phone: 410-827-7406
Fax: 410-758-0566

Somerset
Somerset Co. Dept. of Technical & Community Services
11916 Somerset Ave
Princess Anne, MD 21853
Phone: 410-651-1005
Fax: 410-651-2597

St. Mary's
St. Mary's Co. Housing Authority
P.O. Box 653, Government Center
Leonardtown, MD 20650
Phone: 301-475-4416
Fax: 301-475-4489