Care at Home Blog

Raising a child with special needs comes with unique challenges, but parents in Nebraska have access to several government assistance programs designed to provide financial, medical, and educational support for disabled children. These programs can help alleviate some of the financial burdens and ensure that children with disabilities receive the care they need to thrive. Below is an overview of key government assistance programs available to families in Nebraska with a special needs child.

Medicaid and the Aged and Disabled Waiver

Nebraska Medicaid provides essential healthcare coverage for children with special needs, including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and therapy services. In addition to traditional Medicaid, Nebraska offers the Aged and Disabled (A&D) Waiver, which extends home and community-based services to children with significant disabilities, helping them receive care in a non-institutional setting.

Katie Beckett Program

The Katie Beckett Program, also known as the Disabled Children’s Program, allows children with disabilities who would not typically qualify for Medicaid due to their parents’ income to receive Medicaid benefits. This program helps families afford necessary medical care and services for their children without requiring them to live in an institutional setting.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Children with disabilities may qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), a federal program that provides monthly financial assistance to help cover the costs of daily living, medical care, and other needs. Eligibility is based on both medical and financial criteria.

Nebraska Early Development Network (EDN)

For children from birth to age three, Nebraska’s Early Development Network (EDN) provides early intervention services, including therapy, specialized instruction, and support for families. These services help children with developmental delays reach their full potential.

Special Education Services

Public schools in Nebraska offer Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) and 504 Plans to ensure that children with disabilities receive appropriate educational accommodations and support. Schools provide specialized instruction, therapy services, and assistive technology to help students succeed.

Respite Care and Family Support Programs

The state provides respite care services to give parents and caregivers temporary relief while ensuring that their child receives quality care. Home care agencies like Caretech collaborate with the state to guide families through the application process for respite care assistance.

Nebraska Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Network

Families with children diagnosed with autism can access resources through the Nebraska ASD Network, which provides guidance on therapy options, education planning, and support groups to help families navigate the challenges of raising a child with autism.

Agencies That Assist with Applications

Navigating government assistance programs can be overwhelming, but several agencies in Nebraska specialize in helping families apply for these services. Organizations such as the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and Parent Training and Information Centers offer guidance on eligibility requirements and the application process.

Additionally, home care providers like Caretech assist families with the paperwork required for Medicaid, waivers, and other benefits, through their Best Possible Care Program and Medicaid Waiver Program, ensuring that children with special needs receive the support they deserve. If you need help filling out applications or understanding available resources, reaching out to a knowledgeable agency can make the process easier.

Applying for Assistance

Navigating government assistance programs can be overwhelming, but home care agencies such as Caretech in Nebraska offers several resources to help families apply for and understand these services:

• ACCESSNebraska: The online portal where families can apply for Medicaid, SSI, and other benefits.
• Nebraska Department of Education: Provides information on special education services and early intervention programs.
• Parent Training and Information Centers: Help families understand their child’s educational rights and available resources.

Conclusion

Government assistance programs in Nebraska play a crucial role in supporting children with special needs and their families. By taking advantage of Medicaid, SSI, early intervention programs, and educational services, parents can access essential resources to improve their child’s quality of life. If you need help determining which programs your child may qualify for, consider reaching out to local agencies or advocacy groups for guidance.