March 16, 2021
CP State News
We're here for you! 
OPWDD issues updated expanded visitation guidance
OPWDD has released updated guidance for providers regarding expanded visitation at certified residential facilities when there has been no new onset of COVID-19 cases in the last 14 days and a facility is not currently conducting outbreak testing.
COVID-19 reporting and IRMA data entry training on 3/17
On March 17, from 10 a.m. to noon, the Division of Quality Improvement (DQI) will provide updates and revisions to COVID-19 IRMA reporting for providers of service and Care Coordination Organizations (CCOs).
The training will be conducted using a Webex webinar format. Please register using the following link: https://meetny.webex.com/meetny/onstage/g.php?MTID=e7d116d4891fd85236f3b419bc7f7b196
Event number: 185 920 6674
Event password: DQI123
Once registered, you may receive an approval email with a link to “Join event” and information for the audio portion. If you do not receive the email after registering, you can still use the link above on the day of the meeting.
One-house budgets restore funding for I/DD services
The New York State Senate and Assembly have released their one-house budgets which eliminate rate reductions, restore the COLA deferral and provide reimbursements for COVID-related costs.
The Assembly has released a comprehensive report on their One-House Budget proposal, which can be found here. In addition, Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and the Senate Democratic Majority have issued separate press releases to provide an overview of their respective One-House Budget proposals. The Assembly press release can be found here and Senate here.
CP state and its partners in New York Disability Advocates will continue to pressure the Governor’s Office to execute these provisions and prioritize New Yorkers with I/DD.
CP State Training Series continues on 3/25
How to Build a Resilience Toolbox: A fun and interactive workshop for everyone!
When was the last time you took time just for you during the work day? Sally and Jadyn from Racker invite you to a virtual workshop on March 25 to learn some new ways to build your own resilience and the resilience of others.
As we start to see a light on the horizon at the end of this very rough year, it is really important that we all build individual and collaborative practices that will help us rebound and heal from these hard times.
In this workshop we will explore and experience some tools and strategies for self-reflection, renewal and connection that lead to resilience. Everyone will be invited to participate actively and to connect with each other through both audio and video for portions of our time together.
To register, please email Tim Ferguson at tferguson@cpstate.org. Everyone that signs up will receive an email with resources, a list of what to bring to the workshop and some simple ideas about how to prepare!
Mindfulness stress reduction series begins 3/18
Complementing the School & Home Transition Exchange, a mindfulness stress reduction series will be offered by Parent Network of Western New York (PNWNY) at the same time on alternate weeks.
This ongoing series is an opportunity for parents, caregivers, and youth with disabilities across New York State to meet virtually and learn how mindfulness can help with change and planning for the future.  
Who should attend?
Parents, caregivers, and youth with disabilities across New York State.
All are welcome, and there are no fees to participate.
When:
7:00 – 7:45 PM
Every other Thursday evening, beginning March 18. Click here for all dates.
To register for the series click here or contact PNWNY at 716.332.4170 or info@parentnetworkwny.org. Register once and receive the link for all events.
cash_background.jpg
Empire Pandemic Grant Program offers $29M in direct funding for essential workers
New York will soon begin accepting applications for the Empire Pandemic Grant Program, which will provide a total of $29 million in direct funding to essential workers and first responders. Eligible individuals may receive up to $1,000 per household to reimburse out-of-pocket childcare, transportation, lodging, and other qualified expenses. The application has not been finalized, but we encourage Affiliates to sign up here to receive notification once the relief fund launches. Please share this opportunity widely with staff as soon as applications open. The grants are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis and funds will be expended as requests are made.
Advocacy Alert!
Set aside resources for community-based organizations from the state’s Healthcare Transformation Fund
The 2018 enacted state budget gave Governor Cuomo control over a new account that holds New York’s proceeds from health plan business transactions including the sale of Fidelis to Centene, and more recently the merger of CVS/Aetna, etc. We are calling for a set aside from future disbursements of these funds to be invested in community-based organizations that serve as the safety net for vulnerable New Yorkers. The time is now to demand fairness and equity in the distribution of these funds!
Use CP State's one-click advocacy tool to tell your Assembly and Senate representatives as well as Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie and Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins to request that the set aside language embedded in A 264/S2531 be included in the Assembly and Senate one house bills.
CP of NYS | cpstate.org