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Special Needs Iowa Support Groups
Special Needs Family Activities Support Group
Special Needs Family Activities support group is for families in Iowa to share information and get
information about upcoming activities.
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/specialneedsfamilyactivities/
Beat Iowa Support Group
Beat Iowa is an Autism Support Group and includes discussions of treatments for Autism.
http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/beatiowa/
Designer Genes
A Support Group for parents of children with Down Syndrome located in Mason City and Cedar Fall, IA
http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/designergenesds/
Iowa Special Needs Education Resources
Iowa AEA Online Website
Make the Connection 24/7 to Iowa AEA Online, a collaborative project initiated and supported by Iowa Area Education Agency
Media and Technology Centers (AEAs). The resources were evaluated, tested and selected by AEA representatives and are available
for students and teachers in accredited K-12 schools, in support of curriculum content standards, student achievement, professional
development and information literacy.
http://www.iowaaeaonline.org/about/aboutIAO.html
AEA 267 Iowa Area Educational Agencies
The 267 AEA serves over 68,000 students including 61 public school districts and 24 non-public school districts. In addition,
over 5,000 educators rely on AEA 267 for services in special education, school technology, media and instructional/curriculum
support.
www.aea267.k12.ia.us
IOWA STATE CERRO GORDO RESOURCES
Department of Human Services - Iowa -http://www.dhs.iowa.gov/Consumers/Assistance_Programs/CashAssistance/FamilyInvestmentProgram.html
Family Investment Program (FIP) The
Family Investment Program (FIP) is Iowa's Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) program. FIP provides cash assistance
to needy families as they become self-supporting so that children may be cared for in their own homes or in the homes of relatives.
More information is available in the following brochures: Family
Self Sufficiency Grants (FSSG)
The purpose of FSSG is to provide immediate and short-term assistance to PROMISE
JOBS participant families which will remove specific barriers related to obtaining or retaining employment. Removing
these barriers to self-sufficiency might reduce the length of time a family is dependent on the Family Investment Program
(FIP).
Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA)
Refugee Cash Assistance provides cash assistance for up to
eight months to needy families, including single adults, who enter the United States as refugees who are not eligible for
the Family Investment Program. Unless determined exempt, refugees must cooperate with work and training requirements of the
RCA programs.
Who Can Get Help?
To get help from most of our programs, you must:
- Be a U.S. citizen or legal qualified alien.
- Live
in Iowa.
- Provide a social security number or proof of application for a number.
- Meet income and resource limits
(these vary from program to program).
- Provide all information needed to determine eligibility and benefit level.
Exceptions: The Family Investment Program requires that you have a minor child (under age 18 or 19 and still
in high school) in the home.
How do I apply?
You can apply for FIP and other DHS programs by: - Applying online. Click here
to use the online application.
- Printing an application form from the links below. Complete the application by
hand and return it to the DHS office serviing the county where you live.
- Getting an application form from any local Department
of Human Services (DHS) office. Click onCounty DHS Office Locations to find the location of the county DHS office nearest you.
Links to Program Applications
What if I Have Questions?
Any local DHS office can answer questions about the programs
and services described here. Contact the local DHS office serving the county where you live (County DHS Office Locations).
The local DHS office serving your county is also listed in the State or County Government section of your local
phone book, under "Department of Human Services" or just "Human Services".
You may also contact the DHS Division of
Field Operations by calling (515) 281-6899 or 1-800- 972-2017.
Related Links
Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) TANF State Plan and related information
A brief summary of a report by Mathematica Policy Research, Inc. that describes how Iowa families who left FIP in
the spring of 1999 were doing two years later, with a link to the full report on Mathematica's website.
Iowa – Department of Human Services (DHS): The Family Support Subsidy program
consists of direct cash assistance in the form of a monthly payment to families of children up to age 18 with developmental
disabilities.
Families complete the form at the website below and return
it to the local DHS office or the DHS central office: Family Support Subsidy Program, Division of Children and Family Services,
1305 E. Walnut Street, Des Moines, IA 50319-0114. Information and application for the Department of Human Services (DHS) (PDF).
- See more at:
http://autismnow.org/funding-and-public-policy/family-support-grants-and-cash-subsidies/#sthash.mAXWhqHQ.dpuf
Department of Human Services - Food Programs
We Can Help You Get Healthy Food!
Fruits, vegetables, and
other healthy foods help you and your family be who you want to be. Sometimes
these healthy foods are expensive. Below are places you can call or visit that may help you and your family obtain these healthy
foods. Many of these places have income guidelines. You
may qualify for Food Assistance even if you work full-time. Call us to find out if you and your family can get
help.
You can now apply for Food
Assistance and other DHS programs online! Click here to use the online OASIS application.
| The Food Assistance Program provides Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards
that can be used to buy groceries at supermarkets, grocery stores and some Farmers Markets.
You may qualify for Food Assistance if you: To apply: Call your local DHS officeto get a paper application or apply onlineat oasis.iowa.gov. Before you apply:Please review "Before applying for Food Assistance" document. This document gives a brief overview of what we need to process your application, why certain questions are asked,
citizenship/immigration information, questions that must be answered for Food Assistance and your rights and responsibilities.
If you have questions about applying for Food Assistance, please contact your local DHS office. *Note:Food Assistance applicants have the option to only answer the questions included
on this document as they are required as a condition of eligibility. Note: there have been reports of ads offering assistance for filling out Food Assistance applications. The links
will take you to another website where you may be asked to provide personaland credit card information. Do NOT provide this
information, it can allow others to make unauthorized purchases on your credit card or gain access to your bank accounts.
If you see an ad offeringFood Assistanceapplication assistance with alink, do notclick on it. Never provide any personal information,
including credit card information on an unsecure Web Site. DHS employees will never ask you for credit card information or
for anything not on your State Agency application.
If
you receive Food Assistance you can now access your account information on the web. Go tohttps://www.ebt.acs-inc.com/ to register today. There is no charge for using this online access.
Click here to find yourlocal DHS office.
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| Iowa
WIC | The WIC (Women, Infants, & Children) is a supplemental nutrition program
for babies, children under the age of 5, pregnant women, breastfeeding women, and women who have had a baby in the last 6
months. WIC helps families by providing healthy foods, nutrition education, and referrals to other health care agencies.
Qualifications: To apply: Make an appointment at your local WIC office.Bring proof of address, identity and income.
Contact Information:Go to www.idph.state.ia.us/wic/families.aspfor more information.
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| More low-income Iowanshave increased access to locally grown farm fresh food at selected
Farmers Markets due to the efforts of the Iowa Department of Human ServicesWireless EBT Project.This Project provides wireless
point-of-salemachines to qualified vendors across the state. This enables the vendors to accept the Electronic Benefit Transfer
(EBT)food assistance card, MasterCard, Visa, or Discover. Click here for more information about this program.
There are Farmers Markets throughout Iowa!
Click here for the latest list of Farmers Markets
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To findthe nearestDHS officewhere
you can get an application form or ask questions about DHS programs click here for phone numbers ofCounty DHS Office Locations. The local DHS office serving your county is also listed in the State or County Government section of your local
phone book, under "Department of Human Services" or just "Human Services". To report a change to yourFood
Stampcasecall:1-877-347-5678 You can use a prescreening tool developed by the USDA to determine if you may be eligible to receive
Food Assistance benefits.Click here forthe USDA's Applicants and Recipients web page and click on the On-Line Prescreening Tool link. A similar tool isused in the online
application. Click on either the English or Spanishlinkbelow if you want to apply
for Food Assistance, Family Investment Program (FIP) and/or Medicaid (Title 19). Youwill need toprint the application and
either take it ormail it in to a DHS office.
Useful
Links: Food Assistance Manual Food Assistance Rules Brochures: Facts about the Food Assistance Program English Spanish Food Assistance Program through Electronic Benefit Transfer English Spanish Food Assistance Makes Iowa Stronger English Spanish
Civil Rights Statement for the Food Assistance Program: In accordance
with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, this institution is prohibited from discriminating on the basis
of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, political beliefs,or disability.
To
file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington,
D.C. 20250-9410 or call (800) 795-3272 or (202) 720-6382 (TTY). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer. Click here for information about the Commodities/Food Distribution programs.
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| | School
Food
Program | The School Breakfast Program provides healthy breakfasts in school. Children can receive free
or reduced price school breakfasts.
The National School Lunch
Program provides healthy lunches.
Children can receive free or reduced price lunches.
Qualifications: To apply:Ask
for an Iowa Eligibility Application at your childs school.Return the completed application to your childs school.
Contact Information: Contact your childs school
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Summer Food
Service Program | The Summer Food Service Program provides free meals during the summer months to some communities and day camps.
Qualifications: Be 18 years old or younger
To apply: No application process
Contact
Information: Bureau
of Nutrition, Health, and Transportation Services 515-281-5356 | Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) | The CSFP provides supplemental food and nutrition education for pregnant, postpartum and breast-feeding women,
infants, children up to age six and the elderly. Available foods include canned fruits and vegetables, hot and cold cereals,
cheese, peanut butter and beans, pastas, canned and powdered milk, regular and soy formula and infant cereal.
Qualifications: Meet income guidelines Be six years or younger, a pregnant,
postpartum or breastfeeding woman, or over the age of 60 Foster children six years or younger
are automatically eligible for this program Cannot also be enrolled in the WIC program
To apply: Apply in person at your local CSFP
office. Bring proof of age, income, birth
of baby or doctors note that provides due date of baby. If applying for your foster child,
bring legal documentation of foster care status, childs birth certificate or Title XIX document, and proof that you are the
foster parent.
Contact Information: 1-877-288-3655 or www.polkcountyiowa.gov/CFYS/pages/SuppFoods.aspx
| Emergency Food Assistance | Emergency Food
Assistance provides free meals and food at places like food pantries and soup kitchens. To apply:Dial 211 or your local food bank to find out more information about places for help near you. Contact Information: Dial 211 or go to www.iowalegalaid.com for food pantry information
| SHARE | SHARE, also known as the Self-Help and Resource Exchange,
is a program for anyone. SHARE Iowaoffers tasty, nutritious grocery
packages at half the retail cost in exchange for two hours of volunteer service in your community.
Contact Information: 1-800-344-1107 www.shareiowa.com | EFNEP AND FNP | EFNEP and FNP are free nutrition education programs for low-income families offered by Iowa State University
Extension. They help parents provide nutritious food for their families, leading to healthy children and strong families.
Nutrition coaches meet with participants one-on-one and in small groups. The lessons include hands on activities, worksheets,
games, recipes and cooking.
Qualifications: Meet income guidelines
To apply:800-262-3804 or www.extension.iastate.edu/efnep/ |
Mental Health - Iowa Department Human ServicesThere are lots of
changes coming up so you might want to check this website to get more information of the changes and programs available for
mental health.
http://www.dhs.state.ia.us/mhdd/index.html
Division
of Mental Health and Disability Services (MHDS)
Evidence Based Practices Tools MHDS Redesign Website Olmstead Plan for Mental Health and Disability Services Website Balancing Incentive Payment Program (BIPP) Website What
does MHDS do? MHDS is responsible for planning, coordinating, monitoring, improving and partially funding mental health and disability
services for the State of Iowa. The division engages in a wide variety of activities that promote a well-coordinated statewide
system of high quality disability-related services and supports including: Setting disability policy
The division provides
leadership and sets the direction of state policy for the system of mental health and disability services for Iowa. MHDS plans
for and oversees the provision of disability-related services for children and adults with a wide range of disability conditions,
including mental illness, serious emotional disturbance, intellectual disabilities, developmental disabilities, and brain
injury. MHDS is the designated State Mental Health Authority. It is responsible for statewide planning and oversight of mental
health services and distribution of federal funds received through the Community Mental Health Block Grant.
Service coordination
The division works with
counties, advisory and planning councils, other DHS programs, and other state agencies to coordinate services. We provide
staff support to the Mental Health and Disability Services Commission; the Mental Health Planning and Advisory Council; and
the Olmstead Consumer Task Force, and welcome input from individuals and families.
- Quality review
The division works with service providers to assure quality by setting standards
for certain facilities and services that are provided to adults and children with mental illness, intellectual disabilities,
developmental disabilities and brain injury and evaluating how well those standards are met through an accreditation process.
Managing
grants and contracts
The division distributes and oversees the use of federal and state funding through contracts
with providers or other agencies that offer services or coordinate projects that promote the division's goals.
System Values Respectful of the individual and culturally competent: Individual strengths and skills are emphasized. Recovery and self-determination are promoted. Individual
human rights are protected. Services and supports are provided in a culturally
competent manner.
The Department of Human Services and the Division of Mental Health and Disability Services are committed to the values
of choice, empowerment, and community for all Iowans.
The state
mental health and disabilities service system supports individuals in exercising their own choices about the services they
receive and empowering them to accept responsibility, exercise choices, and take risks. Disability services must be individualized, person-centered, and flexible to produce measurable results, and be cost-effective. Disability services must be provided in a way that supports the ability of individuals with disabilities
to live, learn, work, and recreate in communities of their choice.
Guiding
Principles
Consumer and Family Driven Individuals
and their families take the lead in identifying service and support needs and are fully involved in planning, implementing,
and evaluating the effectiveness of services and supports. Unique individual and family strengths, needs, choices
and preferences are the basis for services and support planning and delivery. Services are welcoming, accessible,
comprehensive, and responsive to the needs of the individual.
Community
Based, High Quality, and Results Oriented Services are community based, high quality, accessible, and
effective services. Quality services encourage and support the development of each individual's abilities and
minimize intrusion in or disruption of the individual's life. Housing is affordable, decent, safe, stable, and maximizes community
integration and opportunities for community involvement. Evidence-based practices, training,
and research are supported and utilized. Focus is placed on outcomes and the prevention of
the need for more costly or restrictive services and supports.
MHDS staff contact information
Other Local Programs
Assistance with expenses, bills, and other aid Thousands of people are struggling in today’s weak economy, and the North Iowa Community
Action Organization offers them resources and ways to get assistance with their bills and they will also work with people
to provide them the skills to become self-sufficient over the long term. Some of the programs offered are below. Contact them
to learn more or to apply. Their main office is located at 218 5th St Sw, Mason City, IA 50401-3840, telephone number
(641) 423-8993. The Iowa Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): This is a federal government funded program that provides grants and financial
assistance that are to be used to pay for a portion of home heating bills for the winter months, assistance with furnace replacement
or repairs, and emergency fuel deliveries. If you apply and are accepted, you may also may be eligible for Weatherization assistance services that can to reduce the cost of energy consumption in your homes. The Iowa weatherization program will install
updates to your home, for free.. Emergency Grants and Financial Assistance: This aid may be available to qualified families and individuals for rent, security
deposits, and even utility deposit. The North Iowa Community Action Organization works closely with the United Way in Cerro
Gordo, and this charity provides funds as well as assistance with past due utility bills. Additional funds are contributed
by local utility and gas companies. Heath clinic and free health care The Family Resource Center is located at 300 15th Street NE, Mason City, 50401, and phone number is 423-5044.
They offer the health care services below. - Maternal Health: medical examination arrangements, dental evaluation, regular
visits with a physician, nutrition assessment, prenatal class arrangements, home visits by public health nurses, guidance
for delivery arrangements, and education on prenatal care.
- Family
Planning : pregnancy testing and counseling, birth control counseling and exams, sexually transmitted
disease treatment, genetic counseling referrals, and pap smears.
- Child
Health: vision and hearing assessments, well-child physical exams, dental evaluations, nutrition assessments,
social and developmental assessments, lead screening, case management services, and immunizations.
Iowa Emergency Homeowners Loan ProgramThe federal government is provided millions of dollars to Iowa as part of the Iowa Emergency Homeowners
Loan Program (EHLP). The assistance will be targeted at those homeowners who have experienced a substantial reduction in their
total household income. The reduction can be caused by numerous reasons, and can be the result of such factors as a job loss,
an involuntary loss of employment, a medical emergency or disability, underemployment such as a reduction in working hours,
or unemployment. The Iowa Emergency Homeowners Loan Program will provides mortgage assistance in the form
of a loan. The program will help a homeowner for a period of time of up to 24 months, and the assistance is provided to those
homeowners who are at risk of foreclosure and losing their home. Type of
emergency loan provided - The home owner loan program
will offer qualified applicants with a declining balance, deferred payment bridge loan. What this is is a non-recourse, zero
percent interest rate loan that is also referred to as a subordinate loan. The maximum amount loaned to Iowa homeowners is
$50,000, and the money is intended to assist eligible homeowners. Once again, qualifications include a reduction in income
from unemployment, job loss, or medical condition. The program will
help with the payment of arrearages on a homeowners mortgage. However note that the loan can even be applied to such expenses
as delinquent property taxes and home insurance premiums. The loan can help with up to 24 months of monthly payments on their
mortgage principal, property taxes, interest, mortgage insurance premiums, hazard insurance, and any other fees. Iowa Emergency Homeowners Loan Program contact information- The Iowa Finance Authority will be involved in the process, but they will not be the agency/ primary point of contact.
To learn more about this mortgage assistance program, or to find out if you are qualified for a loan from the Iowa Emergency
Homeowners Loan Program, dial 877-633-4866 to speak to the Iowa Mortgage Help Program. Another option for Iowa Homeowners
are free or low cost HUD foreclosure counseling agencies. Click here for more information on HUD agencies and programs.
Family Resource Center
-
*Emergency Financial
Assistance: may be available to qualified individuals for rent, rent deposits, and utility deposits from United Way funds
as well as assistance with past due utility bills from funds contributed by local utility companies. Hours of operation: Monday - Friday 8-4:30 p.m. Services: Economic Self Sufficiency Programs,Family Support Centers/Outreach,Rent Payment Assistance,Rental
Deposit Assistance,Utility Service Payment Assistance,Weatherization Programs,Welfare to Work Progra Contact: Barb
Kellogg - bkellogg@nicao-onlin Iowa Legal Aid - Mason City 600 First Street NW, Suite 103 LEGAL SERVICES
Mason City, IA - 50401
(800)
392-0021;
Hours of operation: Monday - Friday 8:30 am-5 pm; applications for assistance
taken Monday - Friday 9 am-11 am and 1:30 pm-3:30 pm; emer Contact: Diane DiPietro Wilson (Managing Attorney) FREE LEGAL ASSISTANCE with civil legal problems
involving basic necessities for low-income individuals in all 99 Iowa counties; assistance ranges from providing counsel and
advice to representation before various agencies and courts
Adoption Legal Services,Advance Medical Directives,Certificates/Forms Assistance,Child
Custody/Visitation Assistance,Child Support Assistance/Enforcement,Consumer Law,Discrimination Assistance,Dome
Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD Housing)
404 S. Monroe Avenue Mason City, IA -
50401
641-421-7619 Financial
Management Budget Counseling
Mortgage Delinquency and Default Resolution Counseling
Non-Delinquency Post Purchase Workshops
for Homeowners
Pre purchase Counseling
Pre purchase Homebuyer Education Workshops
Rental Assistance Housing Counseling
Services
for Homeless Counseling
We can also assist by speaking the following languages -
English
Mason City Housing
Authority The mission of the Mason City Housing Authority is the same as that
of the Department of Housing and Urban Development: To promote adequate and affordable housing, economic opportunity and a
suitable living environment free from discrimination.
The Mason City Housing Authority (MCHA) was established in 1976
to meet the housing needs of low-income families, elderly and disabled residents of the City of Mason City, Iowa.
MCHA
currently assists up to 448 households in the Section 8 Voucher Rental Assistance Program, up to 20 households in the Section
8 Voucher Homeownership Program and 35 Veteran Affairs Supportive Housing Vouchers. MCHA also offers Shelter Plus Care rental
assistance for up to 22 disabled, homeless households. MCHA does not administer any public housing projects.
The
MCHA administers these programs with funds awarded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). The jurisdiction
of MCHA is inside the corporate city limits of Mason City. MCHA also assists 60 households of Tenant Based Rental Assistance
with funds from the Iowa Finance Authority. To apply for assistance, for any of the above programs, unless the applicant is a person with disabilities,
the applicant must pick up and return the application in person to our office located in Mohawk Square, 22 N. Georgia,
Suite 214, Mason City. Phone number is 641-421-2711.
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Arc of North Central Iowa
The Arc (formerly Association for Retarded Citizens) is a non profit organization. We are funded by charitable
contributions and United Way dollars.
The Arc of North Central Iowa is an organization committed to the welfare of
all children and adults who have mental retardation and their families. The Arc has a rich history in advocacy and services.
Membership is comprised of individuals who have mental retardation, family members, professionals in the field of disability
and other concerned citizens.
The Arc of North Central Iowa began some 45 years ago in Mason City. In 1996 we incorporated
into the Arc of North Central Iowa and now cover the same counties served by the United Way of North Central Iowa and the
Nothern Trails Area Education Association (NTAEA).
Our Arc believes that the governing bodies and citizens of North
Iowa have done a good job of providing residential options for persons with disabilities. We have a wide array of vocational
of opportunities available for the young persons who graduate from high school today. The Arc works to provide recreation
and leisure activities to round out the lives of persons with mental retardation. Wherever possible, Inclusive Activities
are encouraged and sponsored.
Advocacy is a key word for members of the Arc of North Central Iowa. Through collaboration
with the agencies and organizations serving persons with disabilities, we are able to help. We are a membership organization
dedicated to the advocating and empowering people with mental retardation and their families to participate fully in community
life.
The Arc is a United Way of North Central Iowa Organization.
The Arc of East Central Iowa: Other Services
Community Education
The Arc helps the community gain understanding of mental retardation, the persons
it affects and precautions
that prevent some types of this disability. Information
is provided through printed materials and planned activities,
especially in March.
Safe Grants and Scholarship
Structural Accessibility Funding Enterprise (SAFE) Grants are matching funds
given by the Arc to families who need financial assistance in adapting their homes to
meet the needs of a member who
has disabilities. Examples of projects that may be
funded include ramps for accessibility, bathroom and kitchen remodeling,
or special
equipment for the individual to assist their independence.
Scholarship: The Arc of North Central Iowa offers a scholarship for
students who
are interested in working with individuals who have disabilities. The scholarship is
only offered to
residents in our service area. (Area II)
Volunteer Efforts
A variety of opportunities are available for you to become involved in our local
chapter or on a broader
basis. A few examples are assisting with recreational
activities, serving on chapter committees, or advocating for effective
programs.
Information
Keep up to date on activities and issues involving persons with disabilities
through local, state, and
national newsletters: North Central Iowa chapter
"Communicator," the Arc of Iowa "Monitor" and the national "The Arc
Today"
provide information about services in the community and
legislation affecting supports, activities, and informational
meetings.
Involvement in the Arc will put you in contact with parents with similar
challenges, educators who care,
and professionals who want to help.
Services
Services are provided through advocating for inclusion in community activities,
promoting development
of programs for unmet needs, and sponsoring activities.
Benefits through the Arc also include group insurance and pharmacy
programs.
Research
The National Association promotes research to enhance independence for all
persons affected by mental
retardation. Knowledge of causes and prevention
methods are also priority.
Advocacy
Many of the opportunities available today are the result of the Arc's past
advocacy to legislators, educators,
service providers, and employers.
Members continue to encourage inclusion in the areas of education,
employment, community
living, and social activities.
Contact for People First:
Jeremy Beavers
69 West View Dr.
Mason City, IA 50401
Phone: (641)423-0384
The Arc of North Central Iowa
PO Box 168
Mason City, IA 50402-0157
(641)422-0157
The Arc of East Central Iowa
More than 50 years ago The Arc of East Central Iowa founders began canvassing neighborhoods to address the needs and concerns
of people with disabilities. Now, more than half a decade later, we offer a variety of programs and services that help enhance
the lives of people with developmental disabilities and mental retardation.
If you are interested in applying for services from The Arc of East Central Iowa, you may fill out and submit the Referral
Form. Read below for more infomation about our services.
Some of the programs include Respite Funding in a variety of situations. Including, one-on-one respite, group respite,
getaway respite, and much more...
http://www.arceci.org/
Iowa Compass
Iowa COMPASS is Iowa's free, statewide information and referral service for people with disabilities,
their families, service providers, and other members of the community. We maintain information on over 5,500 local, state,
and national agencies and programs.
http://www.medicine.uiowa.edu/iowacompass/
Department Human Services - Iowa Medical Programshttp://www.dhs.state.ia.us/Consumers/Health/Medical_Insurance/WhatsAvailable.html
HEALTH CARE - Bureau of Financial, Health and Work Supports
Note:
Anyone who gets or applies for Medicaid
needs to show proof of U.S. citizenship and identity.
In most
cases, if you were born in the United States you are a U.S. citizen.
Information
on proving U.S. citizenship and identity is available here.
If you wish to view this information in a PDF, click here.What's Available? Medicaid (Title 19) is described (below) on this page. Click on these links to learn about each of these health care
services: hawk-i: Healthy and Well Kids in Iowa Health Insurance Premium Payment (HIPP) Program AIDS/HIV Health Insurance Premium Payment Program IowaCare Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Medicaid for Employed People with Disabilities (MEPD) Medicaid for Kids with Special Needs Medicaid (Title 19) Medicaid is a program that pays for covered medical and health care costs of
people who qualify. The Medicaid program is funded by federal and state governments and is managed by the Iowa Department
of Human Services. What's available? A
wide range of medical and health care services is available through the Medicaid program. These services are covered only
if they are medically necessary. Medicaid recipients have free choice of a doctor, dentist, pharmacy, and other providers
of services. However, in many counties, some people covered by Medicaid are required to get certain medical services through
a managed health care provider (either a health maintenance organization (HMO) or a MediPass doctor). These people have the
opportunity to select a provider, however, if they do not select one they will be assigned to a provider. A provider that
chooses to participate in the Medicaid program must accept the payments that Medicaid makes and make no additional charges
to the recipient for services covered under the program. However, some services covered by Medicaid do require a small co-payment
be paid. Eligibility groups are
a category of people who meet certain common eligibility requirements. A broad range of these groups are listed under "Who
can get Medicaid" below. Some Medicaid eligibility groups cover additional services, such as nursing facility care and care
received in your home. Some Medicaid eligibility groups have higher income and resource limits, charge a premium, only pay
the Medicare premium or cover only expenses also paid by Medicare, or require you to pay a specific dollar amount of your
medical expenses. The worker who processes your application will determine which eligibility group you are eligible for. Who can get Medicaid? Medicaid is available to certain, low income
people. You must be one of the following to get Medicaid. These are called eligibility groups. A child under age 21; A parent living with
a child under age 18; A woman who is pregnant; A woman who needs treatment for breast or cervical cancer and who has been
diagnosed through the Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program; A person who is aged (over 65); A person who is blind
or disabled; Certain Medicare beneficiaries; or A person who meets
Social Security disability requirements and is employed.
To get help from most Medicaid programs, you must: Be
a U.S. citizen or a legal qualified alien. As of July 1, 2006, anyone who gets or applies for Medicaid needs to
show proof of citizenship and identity. In most cases, if you were born in the United States you are a U.S. citizen. If
you have questions or need help with proof of citizenship and identity you can call us toll-free at 1-877-937-3663 or
you can contact your worker. For examples of how to prove U.S. citizenship and identity and for more resources
on this topic please click here. Live in Iowa. Provide a social security number or proof of application
for a number. Meet income and resource limits (these vary from program to program). Provide all information needed to determine eligibility and benefit level.
Exceptions: Up
to 3 days of Medicaid is available to pay for the cost of emergency services for aliens who do not meet citizenship, alien
status, or social security number requirements. The emergency services must be provided in a facility such as a hospital,
clinic, or office that can provide the required care after the emergency medical condition has occurred. .
How
do I apply? You can apply online for Medicaid
- along with Food Assistance and the Family Investment Program (FIP). Use your Internet browser to go tohttps://secureapp.dhs.state.ia.us/oasis/. You can also apply by filling out a
paper application form. Staff in the county Department of Human Services office determine eligibility for most people.
There are a few exceptions: The district office of the Social Security Administration determines eligibility for people who
may be eligible for SSI. Presumptive Medicaid eligibility determinations for pregnant women and women who need treatment
for breast and cervical cancer are made by certain providers who are authorized by the Department.
If you have access
to a printer, you can print an application from this website (see links below). Complete the application
by hand then return it to the DHS office serving the county where you live. You can also get an application form from
any county Department of Human Services (DHS) office. Click on County DHS Office Locations to find the location of the county DHS office nearest you. Links to Program Applications If you want to apply for just
Medicaid (Title 19), click on the link below: If you want to apply for Medicaid (Title 19), Food Assistance and/or
Family Investment Program (FIP) click on the link below: When can Medicaid start? Medicaid eligibility may start up to three months before the month you apply in (called the retroactive period)
if: You have paid or unpaid medical expenses for covered medical services which were incurred during the 3 months before
you applied, and You would have been eligible for Medicaid in those months if you had applied for Medicaid (whether
or not the person is alive when the application is actually filed).
You don't have to be eligible now for Medicaid to be eligible in any month
of the retroactive period. What if I Have Questions? Any county DHS office can answer questions about
the programs and services described here. Contact the county DHS office serving the county where you live (County DHS Office Locations). The
county DHS office serving your county is also listed in the State or County Government section of your local phone book, under
"Department of Human Services" or just "Human Services". For Nursing Facility Care: 1-877-344-9628 Phone or 515-564-4040 fax. General information and Frequently asked questions click
here To
report changes to an existing Family Medicaid. case, call 1-877-347-5678 or fax 515-725-9019. You may also contact the Department's Field
Office Support Unit by calling (515) 281-6899 or 1-800- 972-2017. Links to Medicare Programs To find out about Medicare, click on the link
below: The Official U.S. Government Site for People with Medicare To find out about the Medicare-approved
Drug Discount Card program, the Medicare Prescription Drug program, and other assistance programs through Medicare, click
on the link below: Prescription Drug and Other Assistance Programs (Including Medicare-Approved Drug Discount Cards)
Iowa Medicaid Waiver Programs
Some of the Waiver Programs include Ill & Handicap, MR, Brain Injury, Elderly, Aids, ect...
These waivers provide insurance coverage regardless of parents wages, respite care, Social Skill Training,
Home Health Care, Home and Vehicle Modifications and many more services.
There is a new program called: Consumer Choices that families can also use in addition to services they
might already be using. Some benefits of this program are choosing to hire who you want (friend, professional, relative) to
provide services that might not be available through the traditional program.
Some of the supports include cleaning services, homemaking tasks, supervision, respite, self-directed & employment
skills, assistive divices, and many other services.
For more information contact your Case or Service Manager
Medicaid for Employed People with Disabilities (MEPD Program)
Medicaid
for Employed People with Disabilities (MEPD) is a Medicaid coverage group implemented to allow persons with disabilities to
work and continue to have access to medical assistance. For more information regarding the MEPD program, please visit
the Iowa Medicaid Enterprise web site at the following link:
http://www.ime.state.ia.us/HCBS/help_ownhome.html
I.D.E.A.S.
This Website offers extensive contact information for people with Special Needs in many different areas. This is a great
resource.
http://katrinadisability.info/Iowa.html
Easter Seals Disability Resources
Children and adults with disabilities and special needs find highest-quality services designed to meet their individual needs
when they come to Easter Seals Iowa. Easter Seals staff with varied professional expertise help each person overcome obstacles
to independence and reach his or her personal goals. Explore our programs listed below.
- AIM (Achieving Independent Methods)
- Camping and Recreation
- Case Management
- Child Development Center
- Equipment Services
- Job Training and Employment Services
- Life Club
- Respite
- Rural Solutions
- Supported Community Living.
- 24-Hour Supported Community Living
Contact us to begin Easter Seals services or for more information.
If you prefer to telephone us for more information, you may do so by
dialing (515) 309-1783.
http://ia.easterseals.com/site/PageServer?pagename=IADR_resources
Youth Task Force - Mason City
One-on-One Mentoring
Ever thought of becoming a mentor? What may seem
like a few hours to you may mean the world to a child. Contact the Youth Task Force for more information.
YIELD:
Youth Investing Energy in Leadership Development
It is important for youth in our community to gain leadership skills
that will help them to succeed in the future. YIELD does just that by bringing high school kids together once a week during
the school year and giving them opportunities to meet with a variety of people in leadership positions and to help them accomplish
tasks such as creating a resume which will be helpful to them in the future. To get involved in YIELD, you need to be nominated.
Contact Carol Brown, at the Youth Task Force, for more information. YIELD Express
YIELD Express is a shortened version of the YIELD program
that is held during the summer. This session is for the kids at Francis Lauer. It also gives the kids opportunities to gain
leadership skills that will help them in their future endeavors. Contact Carol Brown, at the Youth Task Force, for more
information.
YAT: Youth Action Team
Youth Action
Teams are groups of high school youth, from MCHS and Newman HS, that get together to get involved in the community
by helping with various projects. Each group meets once a month during the school year to discuss upcoming events and to brainstorm
new project ideas. Contact Carol Brown, at the Youth Task Force, for more information.
Childcare Assistance - Iowa Department Human ServicesNeed Help Paying for Child
Care?
Child Care Assistance Brochure (Comm 62)
Child Care Assistance Brochure (in Spanish) (Comm 62/S) What's Available?
Child
Care Assistance (CCA) is available to the children of income-eligible parents who are absent for a portion of the day due
to employment or participation in academic or vocational training or PROMISE JOBS activities. Assistance may also be
available for a limited period of time to the children of a parent looking for employment or when the parent who normally
cares for the child is unable to do so due to hospitalization, or outpatient treatment for physical or mental illness.
Child
care services are provided to people participating in activities approved under the PROMISE JOBS program and people who receive
Family Investment Program (FIP) assistance without regard to Child Care Assistance eligibility requirements if there is a
need for child care services. PROMISE JOBS staff administer Child Care Assistance for child care needed to participate
in PROMISE JOBS activities.
Child care services for a child with protective needs are provided without regard to income.
To receive protective child care services, the family must meet specific requirements, and child care must be identified in
the child's case permanency plan as a necessary service.
Who Can Get Help?
You may get help
from the Child Care Assistance program if you:
- Have a child who needs care who is under the age of 13 (or under the age of 19 if the child
has special needs).
- Are a member of a Family Investment Program (FIP) participant household.
If you're not a Family Investment Program
participant, you may qualify for the CCA program if you:
- Have a child who needs care who is under the age of 13 (or under the age of 19
if the child has special needs) and have income under the program's limits and work an average of 28 hours per week; or
- Attend
an approvable training or education program full-time; or
- Are looking for work; or
- Are unable to provide care
because of an approved medical reason.
How do I apply?To get most
of our services, you must fill out an application form. If you have access to a printer, you can print an application from this website (see links below). Complete the
application by hand then return it to the DHS office serving the county where you live.You can also get an application form from any county Department of Human Services
(DHS) office. Click on County DHS Office Locations to find the
location of the county DHS office nearest you. Links
to Program ApplicationsWho Can
Care for My Child?You may chose a child care provider
from a variety of arrangements. You can choose:- A licensed child care center,
- A registered child development home,
- A nonregistered child
care home,
- Someone who cares for your children in your own home,
- A before-and-after-school program, or
- A
child care program operated by or under contract to an accredited public or nonpublic school.
What Must My
Child Care Provider Do?
Your provider must be approved by DHS in order to receive payment from the CCA program.
Many providers are already approved by DHS to provide care for the CCA program. If you do not know whether your provider
is approved, ask your DHS CCA worker for assistance. If your provider is not yet approved, DHS will provide you with
the necessary forms to take to your child care provider.
What if I Have Questions?
Contact
the Centralized Child Care Assistance Eligibility Unit (CCA) at 866-448-4605 for questions about child care. The CCA determines initial
and ongoing eligibility for Child Care Assistance. Their work includes processing new applications, reviews, and changes
reported by families receiving Child Care assistance. The Unit also processes child care payments for providers and handles all provider applications, renewals,
and changes reported by providers.
Child Serve Org.
ChildServe Community Options
3905 Dawes Drive
Ames, IA 50010
Phone: 515-232-7220
Web Site: http://www.childserve.org/
Provides and promotes comprehensive, family-centered services and supports that enable children with severe disabilities
and chronic health conditions to live at home with their families. Children age birth to 17 years with mental retardation,
developmental disabilities, and chronic health conditions are eligible to enroll. Requests for in-home respite are reviewed
on a case-by-case basis.
Pre/Post-Adoption/Foster Care Iowa Resources
This Website has extensive resources for families. Some offer medical assistance, respite assistance, health insurance,
and many more...For more detailed information you can also check our yahoo group ~ specialneedsfamilyactivities (yahoogroup).
http://www.nacac.org/stateprofiles/iowa.html
ORGANIZATIONS PROVIDING SERVICES TO SPECIAL NEEDS
Autism PDD Iowa Links
The Autism-PDD Network has put together an extensive resource list of Iowa Resources for Special Needs on this website. These
include Special Education, Special Needs Iowa Resource Contact Information, Mental Health Services, and many more.
http://www.autism-pdd.net/links/iowa.html
Comprehensive Systems
Offers a variety of services for Special Needs
Contact: (641) 494-1714
http://www.comp-systems.org/
Mason City Recreation Department
Special Needs Summer Camp!
(six different sessions)
Contact: (641)421-3673
Opportunity Village
Offers individual respite and variety of other programs.
Contact: (641) 423-1060 or (641) 357-5277
Mercy Rehabilitation Services
Offers a variety of services including Speech Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Sensory Integration Therapy, Physical Therapy,
and Pain Therapy.
Contact: (641) 422-7498
Iowa Special Needs Childcare/Respite Funding
Iowa Childcare Scholarships
Childcare Scholarships are to assist area families
with childcare costs so they continue to work, go to
school or be looking for a job position. These
scholarships pay up to 65% of the monthly cost of
childcare.
If your family would like to apply you may download
our application, or call the Cerro Gordo, Hancock and
Worth Empowerment office at 641-494-6099 to have one
mailed to you.
Scholarships are only available for children under 6
years of age
http://www.cghwempowerment.com/Childcare_Scholarship.html
Iowa Preschool Scholarships
Preschool Scholarships are to assist area families
with preschool costs. These scholarships pay up to
$60 per month for monthly preschool tuition. If your
family would like to apply you may download our
application, or call the Cerro Gordo, Hancock and
Worth County Empowerment office at 641-494-6099 to
have one mailed to you.
http://www.cghwempowerment.com/Preschool_Scholarship.html
Iowa Respite Crisis Care Coalition
IRCCC is able to offer more than 249 individuals with over 3,500 hours of respite care in 58 counties across Iowa. This is
a wonderful program for families not eligible for Waivers or on waiting lists.
http://www.irccc.com/displaycommon.cfm?an=4
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