Announcement/Press release

Organizations interested in applying to become Employment Networks (EN) can now do so directly with the Social Security Administration, no longer having to process requests through MAXIMUS. All Request for Proposal (RFP) applications can be downloaded from the Federal procurement web site. This press release provides detailed instructions and contact information.

The CT Real Choice statewide conference will be held September 16, 2005. Participants will spend the day in meaningful dialogue and discussion around one central question: “How can I help build a welcoming, accessible, and inclusive community that supports all its residents to be full participants?” The Keynote address will serve as a catalyst for an “Open Space Marketplace of Ideas” on building inclusive communities. Bring your ideas, passions, concerns and questions to share and explore.

CMS announced that a certificate of medical necessity is no longer required for power wheelchair and power operated vehicle claims. This is another step to streamline and ensure appropriate access for people with Medicare to power operated vehicles. In an interim final rule with opportunity to comment that went on display at the Federal Register, CMS clarified the requirements for prescribing, supplying, and receiving payment for these vehicles. Review the interim final rule and fact sheet.

A new report finds that the Senate Appropriations Committee’s HUD funding bill would do a better job than the comparable House bill of repairing recent damage to the housing voucher program. The report shows how each of the bills would affect state and local housing agencies across the nation. There are differences between the two bills, however both would change the way voucher funds are divided among housing agencies and both would increase voucher funding for 2006.

The Children with Special Health Care Needs Program developed the outreach materials in October and November of 2004. You will find the radio scripts and sample radio ads for many of the outreach campaigns including: Clinging to Hope, Aphasia, Cleft Lip, PKU, Severe Burns, Heart Defects, Newborn Screenings, Basic 800 info spot, and the Covering Kids and Families Health Care Project. The program aired in both English and Spanish in cooperation with the Nevada Broadcasters Association.

On August 18, 2005 CMS Administrator Mark B. McClellan, and Administration on Aging Assistant Secretary Josefina Carbonell announced $15 million in grants to 19 states to create a single source of information and assistance for families navigating the often confusing array of long-term care services. Part of the New Freedom Initiative, the ADRC grants are jointly administered by CMS and HHS’ Administration on Aging. A complete list of grantees and award amounts are included in the press release.

The Tennessee State Senate has recently approved legislation that directs the state administration to develop a long-term care services plan. This plan will work to provide an array of home and community based services and opportunities for the elderly and persons with disabilities.

The Massachusetts State Legislature is currently reviewing new legislation that will create a fund for to assist families with home modifications. The bill passed in the House and is currently being reviewed in the Senate.

Communities for Everyone is a two-day institute held June 23rd and 24th that will explore innovative approaches to building inclusive communities and creating sustainable systems change to support all residents to be full participants in community life. Workshops and keynote presentations will provide information that reflects current practices as well as future designs to create welcoming, accessible, and inclusive communities that support all residents.

The Children with Special Health Care Needs programs of Nevada assists children with special needs and their families through a variety of health and support services. The Real Choice Systems Change Project has partnered with the Nevada Broadcasters Association to air the various media information on Nevada's television and radio stations. They also host a website with links to support, advocacy, assistance and education.