The Family Support Services (FSS) Program is administered by the New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) with the overarching goal of helping families care for loved ones with developmental disabilities at home for as long as they choose. The program emphasizes maintaining family unity and community-based support, aiming to avoid unnecessary institutional placements.
This initiative provides funding through regional Developmental Disabilities Services Offices (DDSOs) and local not-for-profit agencies that deliver a wide range of supports tailored to individual family needs. Services funded under this program include various types of respite (day, evening, overnight), recreational activities such as summer camps or evening programs, and family reimbursement or cash subsidy supports. Additionally, families can access case management, service coordination, counseling, and behavior management services.
Other critical supports provided through the FSS Program encompass crisis intervention, financial and life planning assistance, information and referral services, outreach efforts, training opportunities for families and caregivers, and essential transportation assistance. The program also supports families by funding special adaptive equipment and making necessary environmental modifications to homes to improve accessibility and quality of life.
Eligibility for the FSS Program is limited to families who are actively providing in-home care for a family member with a developmental disability and meet specific program criteria. These criteria are outlined and administered through OPWDD and regional DDSOs.
Families interested in accessing FSS-funded services are encouraged to contact their regional DDSO. More detailed information about available services, eligibility requirements, and contact instructions can be obtained by calling 1-866-946-9733 or by visiting the OPWDD website. The central office for Family Support and Aging Services is located at 44 Holland Avenue, Albany, New York 12229.
