Resources

State and Federal Agencies

Department of Children and Families

Department of Developmental Services

Department of Elementary & Secondary Education

Department of Mental Health

Department of Public Health, Div. for Special Health

Disabled Persons Protection Commission

Division of Medical Assistance

Massachusetts Commission for the Blind

Massachusetts Commission for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

Massachusetts Dept. of Conservation and Recreation: Universal Access Program

Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission

Supplemental Security Income Program

Information, Services and Support


Adaptive Environments - Promotes accessibility and universal design.

ARC Massachusetts - Promotes quality community services and advocates for enlightened public policy.

CarePoints - Partners parents and professionals to improve and maximize care for medically complex children.

Center for Health Policy and Research/UMass Medical School - Publishes "Disability Issues," a free newsletter.

Disability Resources on the Internet - Links to Massachusetts resources.

 Easter Seals - Provides information and services for rehabilitation, child care, summer camps, recreation and job training.

Family TIES of Massachusetts - Offers regional information and support network by and for families of children with special needs.

Federation of Children with Special Needs - Provides support and resources for families and professionals regarding educational issues for children.

Health Care for All - Advocates making health care a right for all individuals. Helps parent problem-solve insurance issues.

Institute for Community Inclusion - Supports the rights of children and adults with disabilities to work and recreate, and examines local and state policies.

Parent-Professional Advocacy League - Provides support, education and advocacy for issues related to children's mental health needs.

Partners for Youth with Disabilities - Arranges mentors for young people with disabilities and sponsors educational, art and recreation programs.

Activities and Recreation

AccessSport America - Inspires higher function and fitness for children and adults of all disabilities through high challenge sports.

Sibshops - Offers information about the experiences of siblings of children with special needs and how to help siblings in a group format.

Specialized Housing, Inc. - Works with families to create and manage housing support options for adult children with special needs.

Toward Independent Living and Learning (TILL) - Offers respite, family support, personal care assistance, supportive living options, information and referral.