Family Supports Program
Cuyahoga DD recognizes and appreciates families' vital support for people with developmental disabilities. Using a portion of our local tax levy revenue to help families in this caregiving role by providing funding for goods and services through our Family Supports Program remains a priority. The Family Supports Program has been expanded to include individuals eligible for Cuyahoga DD services who live at home or on their own.
Family Supports Program Application
New to the program or reenrolling please complete the 2025 application below.
For more information
Family Supports Program one-page flyer: English or Spanish
Family Supports Program guidelines: English or Spanish
Family Supports Program Frequently Asked Questions
For questions about the Family Supports Program, call 216-736-2947.
Eligibility for the Family Supports Program
The Family Supports Program is only available to persons eligible for Cuyahoga DD services who may live with family or on their own.
The following individuals are not eligible for the Family Supports Program:
- People who are enrolled on a Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services Waiver* (Level 1, Individual Options, or Self- Empowered Life Funding);
- People who live in an intermediate care facility (ICF); or
- People who live in foster care.
*If you have a Support Administrator, please contact him/her. You may be eligible for similar services.
Annual funding allotments
People age 18 and older eligible for Cuyahoga DD services = $1,500 per person
Children age 17 and younger eligible for Cuyahoga DD services = $750-$1,500 per person
Camp
Recreation
Respite Care
Respite care is defined as an occasional break for families. Respite care may be accessed for people who require specialized care beyond what might be expected of an untrained provider.
There are two types of Respite Care Providers:
Certified Respite Provider: These providers must be certified by the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DoDD) as a Waiver Provider. Requirements for this certification include a background check, training in courses related to individuals with disabilities, First Aid and CPR. The provider must also have a signed contract with NEON. Below is a list of Cuyahoga County Certified Respite Providers.
Family-Selected Provider: This is a provider that the family knows (ex: family member, friend, neighbor, etc.) and believes can care for their family member. The family provides training for this provider. The provider cannot live in the same house, be a parent of the program participant and must be at least 18 years old. The respite invoice/timesheet can be completed below.
For questions, assistance, or to have a copy of the respite packet mailed or emailed, please contact the Family Supports Coordinators at 216-736-2947 or by email: familysupports@cuyahogabdd.org.
Requesting Equipment
Exciting news! Cuyahoga DD Family Supports Program equipment requests will now be made through a simplified form online. Your occupational therapist, physical therapist, speech and language pathologist or physician can complete the equipment request form below.
For families' and therapists' questions regarding requesting equipment - click on the videos below.
People who benefited from the Family Supports Program
Recreation
Michael at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo.
Equipment
Khai on foam blocks and crash pads.