What are Children's Waiver Services?

Children's Waiver Services provide support to a family whose child may be placed out of the home because of severe behavioral challenges or medical conditions. Children's Waiver Services are generally provided within the home, or in a community setting. They vary in intensity based on the needs of the child and family.

Who can benefit from Children's Waiver Services?

Children who have been diagnosed with a developmental disability, and who have multiple service needs, may be eligible for Children's Waiver Services. They must be 18 years of age or younger and live in either Bay County or Arenac County. Children will be pre-screened for services locally. Priority to receive services is determined by the Clinical Review Team and the Department of Community Health.

How do Children's Waiver Services help a family?

In most cases, the healthiest option for families who have children with developmental disabilities is to keep them living in the family home. (A family may be headed by a natural parent, adoptive parent, or legal guardian.) A Supports Coordinator can help the child - and the family - find the support they need to maintain this living arrangement. A person-centered planning approach is used to help identify an individual's strengths, dreams, goals and desires. Services provided may include professional assessment and treatment monitoring, behavior management, support coordination, therapy for the child and family, crisis intervention, respite care, enhanced health services, medication administration and review, and therapy in occupational, physical, speech, hearing, and language areas. Services are based on the child or family's needs.

How can you access Children's Waiver Services?

You may call (989) 895-2300 or 1-800 327-4693 for additional information about this program. To request a service or make a referral, call the Access Alliance of Michigan (a division of Bay Arenac Behavioral Health) at 1-800-448-5498.