Adults with developmental disabilities are provided government assistance, including services they used to get from the school system as children. But for years, there's been a waiting list for that help, despite political promises and attempts at reform. We ask why the state keeps falling short for these adults and their families.
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GUESTS:
- Christine Santaniello - Director of the Bureau of Developmental Services for the Department of Health and Human Services. She formerly led Lakes Region Community Services.
- Sandy Pelletier - President and CEO of Gateways Community Services, an area agency in Nashua New Hampshire.
- Jennifer Bertrand - Vice-Chair of the Council Policy Committee for the New Hampshire Council on Developmental Disabilities.
On Tuesday, January 24th at 3:30PM, family members, lawmakers, and healthcare providers testified before the State Legislature on behalf of HB-387-FN-A, which would increase the pay for direct service providers through the Bureau of Developmental Services by 2%.
For more information:
The NH Council on Developmental Disabilities
The National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities
The Bureau of Developmental Services
A list of provider agencies.
Stepping Stones, a publication of Parenting New Hampshire that provides information for those with disabilities.
To read the full report from the Commissioner of the Department of Health and Human Services, Jeffrey Meyers, click here.