February News & Updates...

February News & Updates

Individual Supports vs. Community Based Supports

Those that are in the Community Care Waiver (CCW) have what is called individual supports. Those in the Supports Program (SP) have what is called community based supports. Essentially both are utilizing the same service but from different budgets.

Individual Supports can also be referred to when referencing the over night service being billed to the residential provider.

Another difference between CCW and the SP is that the individuals who are enrolled in the SP are able to access respite services. Those that are CCW eligible and living in group homes do not qualify for respite. Those that are CCW eligible and living home are able to access respite services.

Community Care Waiver (CCW) Manual

Supports Program Manual

Additional Services...

Transportation

Transportation may be available in your local communities at no charge. Please note that DDD is working towards Uber and Lyft being approved providers, until then you may be able to access local transportation companies through goods and services.

Some transportation resources you may be interested in...

NJ Find a Ride

Access Link

NJ Travel Independence Program

EZ Ride

LogistiCare (Medical Transport)

Housing

Do you know if your family member could qualify for this?

Click below to find out additional information and ask your Support Coordinator for any additional information needed.

Housing Voucher Information

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

SNAP provides a monthly supplement for purchasing nutritious foods. If your family member does qualify, you will receive a debit card for grocery purchases.

NJ SNAP

Canteen Dances

Canteen dances are a fun night for individuals to meet friends and join others for a night of dancing, music and food. These dances are offered by several agencies such as the Arc of Bergen/Passaic and Spectrum for Living.

(Cost ranges from $5 - $10)

Crafts & Creativity

Michael's offers classes each night of the week depending on your creative interest. Check out your local Michael's for a fun and creative experience!

Michael's Classes

Support Coordinator Supervisor:

Laura Junta

Laura Junta is the Supervisor of Support Coordinators at Spectrum Care Management and Counseling, LLC. Laura has a Bachelors Degree in Psychology and has been working in social services since 2004. Prior to becoming the Supervisor, Laura worked as an ABA therapist within school districts, as well as privately for families whose children were not able to attend school due to medical or behavioral concerns. After many years, Laura was introduced to the world of Support Coordination and found a new passion.

Laura's private life consists of being a mom to her two year old son, Jax, and their five chickens and six year old black lab, Charlie. Laura, her husband, and family live in Passaic County. Laura is also an avid volunteer and public speaker at different events to bring awareness to Facial Differences. Laura was born with a Craniofacial Difference, Hemifacial Microsomia, and has undergone roughly 30 operations to correct the absence of the right side of her jaw and her right ear. Laura has mentored many young individual's with similar differences and is always up for sharing her story to bring awareness for others. Laura truly believes in embracing our differences and is often heard quoting Dr. Wayne Dyer, "When given the choice between being right and being kind, choose kind."

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