June has been declared Rights Promotion Month by our CCO. It is a time to celebrate empowerment, dignity, and the voices of those we serve. Care Managers play a vital role in educating members about their rights and supporting them in exercising those rights. The Member Relations team is committed to assisting Care Managers to ensure that no member is denied their civil or legal rights due to an intellectual and/or developmental disability diagnosis. Every member deserves to be treated with the same respect and dignity afforded to others, regardless of race, religion, national origin, age, gender, ethnic background, primary language, sexual orientation, developmental or other disabilities, or health conditions such as HIV infection.
HOW THE GOVERNMENT SHUTDOWN MAY AFFECT YOU
10/28/25 Update: November SNAP benefits may be delayed. SNAP benefits cannot be issued for November unless federal funding is authorized. OTDA will notify SNAP households by November 1, 2025, on the status of November SNAP benefit 10/23/25 Update: Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP): Applications are not yet being accepted. Please continue to check the OTDA.NY.GOV site for the lates information.…
Continue Reading →SSA ANNOUNCES COLA INCREASE FOR 2026
The 2.8% Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) for 2026 will have a direct impact on individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in New York State who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Here's how: 1. Increase in Monthly Benefits SSI recipients will see their monthly federal payment standard rise from $967 to $994 for individuals, and…
Continue Reading →Kenley’s Journey: Independence Through Assistive Technology
At 13 years old, Kenley Jordan is living a vibrant life surrounded by friends, family, and her favorite hobbies. She looks forward to riding the school bus each day and enjoys swimming, cooking, horseback riding, taking pictures, and spending time with her close-knit group of friends. Through Self Direction and with the support of her Care Manager, Amanda, Kenley has…
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