The Tipping Point: The main question many ask is why the State of Florida still has approximately 22,000 individuals on the Waiting List and not enough capacity so that all can use the services and support they need.
One thing is certain, the less funds available for the iBudget Waiver, the more families and caregivers have to step up to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. We all understand that a parent’s role, and expectation, is to take care of family members when they can’t themselves, but at times this causes a financial burden. This impacts the community when family members leave the workforce so they can support their loved ones and allow them to live in their family home or community. Although not a legal responsibility, it is a sacrifice most families are willing to make. Most of these individuals are likely to be 20, 30, 40 or 50 years old. The iBudget dollar amount is a decision the Legislature makes based on their perception on how much to invest in this vulnerable population. As families struggle, public policies provide support to ensure funding is adequate. Moving individuals from the Waiting List to the iBudget Waiver, and building capacity in our community for families, will reflect the State’s values in supporting families and loved ones of individuals with developmental disabilities.