Supported Living Services is a new program developed by the Office of Developmental Disabilities (Illinois Department of Human Services) that offers an array of services and supports to adults diagnosed with a developmental disability (DD). DD is defined as mental retardation with an IQ of 69 or lower, cerebral palsy, autism or epilepsy.

The SLS program is targeting young adults who have exited special education within the past five years. Persons must have aged out of special education services, therefore should be twenty-one or over.

The SLS money is designated for individuals with significant disabilities including those who may be served by the Office of Rehabilitation Services (ORS). It is intended to pay for programs such as developmental training and sheltered workshops. Please see below for services.

It is essential that parents apply for and obtain a Medicaid number prior to applying for SLS services. Please refer to Medicaid.

Description

• Each individual enrolled in this new program may receive an array of services and supports (listed below) up to a maximum cost of $1,500 per month.
• Individuals enrolled in SLS may not receive any other DHS-funded developmental disability services, except Vocational Rehabilitation services from DHS' Office of Rehabilitation Services (ORS). All current and future services received must be included in the SLS array within the SLS dollar cost maximum.

Services
(services are subject to an overall maximum of $1,500 per month)

• "SLS Team Leader" services (to develop and coordinate the service plan)
• Skilled nursing
• Behavioral Services, Therapy, and Counseling from a Licensed Professional
• Direct Support Worker
• Respite
• Speech, Physical and Occupational Therapies
• Developmental Training, Supported Employment or Adult Day Care
• Transportation (limited to no more than $500 per month)

Eligibility
Individuals who meet all of the following criteria are eligible for SLS:

• Age 18 or older
• Resident of Illinois living in Illinois
• Eligible for Medicaid in Illinois
• Diagnosed as having a developmental disability
• Determined by the local Pre-Admission Screening agency (PAS) to need continuous supports and services (ICFDD level of care) for the developmental disability, and
• Need an array of services to remain in the home and avoid or delay residential services.

Priority Services
DHS is giving service priority to eligible persons who have been defined as:

• Individuals who are currently not receiving any support services from the Office of DD or the Office of Rehabilitation Services, except respite or federally funded vocational rehabilitation services, and
• Individuals who have exited special education within the last five years,
  OR
• Individuals who are living with only one caregiver.

Application

Contact the Pre-Admission Screening agency (PAS = Community Alternatives: 773-867-1000) in your area for more information and applications. Capacity is limited, since there are limited available slots within a geographic area.