Family Support Program

Who is eligible for Family Support?

Persons with severe disabilities who meet eligibility criteria and who are residing in the community in an unsupported residential setting. Due to limited state funding and Local Council priorities not all eligible individuals can be served. Family Support is not a substitute for more comprehensive services provided under other programs, including the Medicaid HCBS Waiver, TennCare, Medicare, or private insurance. If a person is a recipient of a Home and Community Based Waiver (HCBS) such as supported living, community based day (CB Day) services, Employment and Community First (ECF), Katie Beckett (KB)  or CHOICES. Persons receiving these services are not eligible for Family Support services.)  

How does a person apply for the Family Support Program?

There is a Family Support agency for every county in the state. Contact the Department of Disability & Aging Regional or Central Office to find out what agency has the Family Support contract for your county.

How does a person get approved for the Family Support Program?

The individual must have a severe disability and meet the eligibility criteria established for the program. It is important to note the distinction between eligibility and selection and enrollment. Many families who apply to the Family Support Program may be approved as eligible for services based on the definition of family, severe disability, and living circumstance. However, depending on the resources and Local Council priorities, a few number of families may actually be selected to receive services and be enrolled in the program.

What services are available through Family Support?

Services are designed to be flexible and responsive to individual or family needs. Services might include but are not limited to: respite care, before/after care, day care, home/vehicle modifications, specialized equipment/repair/maintenance, nutrition/clothing/supplies, personal assistance, transportation, homemaker services, housing costs, health related costs, nursing, counseling, summer camp, and evaluation. The program funds services and needs that are not covered by traditional resources.

How much funding can I get?

The current limit on benefits is $6,000 per individual with a severe disability in a family. However, depending on Family Support resources and Local Council priorities, you may get less than $6,000.

If I am approved for the Family Support Program and my needs change during the year, can I revise the services in my Family Support Service Plan?

Yes, the program is designed to be flexible and recognizes that the family needs may change during the year. Services can be added or changed as long as money is available in the existing Family Support Service Plan.

Will I receive the same amount of money each year?

An individual/family has to reapply each year for Family Support funding. Allocations each year are based on the availability of state funds, needs of the individual/family, and Local Council priorities.

Will the Family Support agency assist me in finding a Respite Care provider?

Once a Local Council has approved a family to receive funding from the program it is up to the family to find the provider or services they need.

Can the Family Support Program pay my Respite Care provider?

If you are approved to receive funding for respite care you will need to ask your Family Support agency if they can pay your respite care provider directly. Each agency develops their own accounting system for the distribution of funds to families. 

What can I do if I have an unresolved complaint pertaining to the Family Support Program?

If the conflict cannot be resolved with the agency Family Support Coordinator, there is a formal Grievance/Appeals process. If you do not have a copy of the Grievance/Appeals process ask the Family Support Coordinator for a copy.