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SD DRS - Independent Living Services

Eligibility

To be eligible for independent living services through the South Dakota Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) an individual must have a significant disability, which means:

1) an individual with a significant physical, mental, cognitive or sensory impairment;

2) whose ability to function independently in the family or community or whose ability to obtain, maintain, or advance in employment is substantially limited; and

3) for whom the delivery of independent living services will improve the ability to function, continue functioning, or move towards functioning independently in the family or community or to continue employment.

Services include:

Information and Referral Services: Individuals are provided with information or they are referred to other more appropriate resources. These services are not based upon economic need.

Independent Living Skills Training: Individuals learn independent living skills, either on an individual or group basis. Basic skills training is provided in areas such as food preparation, shopping, personal grooming. These services are not based upon economic need.

Peer Counseling Services: Individuals receive counseling and support by another individual with a similar disability. The peer counselor and consumer meet on a one-to-one basis, or a consumer may meet with a group of peers, in order to discuss issues related to their disability. These services are not based upon economic need.

Individual and Systems Advocacy: Individuals develop skills needed to advocate on their own behalf within the independent living services process and all activities of daily life. These services are not based upon economic need.

Housing Related Services: Individuals receive information and support related to securing housing or shelter, including services related to community group living and adaptive housing services. See also: The SD Housing Authority web site at http://www.sdhda.org/.

Home Modifications and Adaptive Devices: Some individuals need special adaptations to their homes. These services do not include any medical, prosthetic or orthotic services. These services are based upon economic need. See also: DakotaLink assistive technology project.

Applying for Services

Individuals should apply for services at the Center for Independent Living that serves the county or Indian reservation in which they live. For a listing of these centers, go to: http://www.state.sd.us/dhs/drs/IL/county-il.htm.

During the application process the independent living specialist will meet with you to assess your interests and needs. When the assessment is completed, you and your independent living specialist will set goals for independent living. There is no charge for services, but some services are based upon your economic need.

Usually eligibility for services is determined on the same day of application. You can speed up the eligibility process by coming to the Center for Independent Living with medical information concerning your disability or evidence that you receive a Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) check.

Source:

http://www.state.sd.us/dhs/drs/IL/il.htm

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Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS)

Welcome and Introduction to the South Dakota Benefits Information System

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