Dear Neighbor,
Here’s wishing you and yours a happy Thanksgiving. I hope you are able to enjoy some extra time in the company of friends and loved ones this week as we pause to think about all the reasons we have to be thankful this season.
On a more official note, I encourage area citizens to attend a meeting in Marshall the first Monday in December to discuss services for children with autism and related conditions.
The meeting is one of three around the state hosted by the Minnesota Department of Human Services on this subject. It will focus on services available through Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare for children, youth and young adults under age 21 with autism spectrum disorder and related conditions.
This meeting will be very helpful in terms of increasing public awareness so people have more information regarding what resources are available to them. Families will be able to ask questions, offer suggestions or simply soak things up so they can have a better idea of how they could benefit. This is an outstanding opportunity for people to communicate directly with DHS representatives and I hope they take advantage.
Attendees will have a chance to learn more about the Early Intensive Developmental and Behavioral Intervention benefit and services. Information also will be provided regarding supports for autism spectrum disorder and related conditions in general. The DHS will welcome input pertaining to challenges and successes related to accessing services.
The DHS indicates the goal of EIDBI services is to promote fuller participation by children in their family, schools and community life. Services are based on the family’s values and culture and include training and support for the family.
The meeting will be 2 to 4 p.m. Dec. 4 at the Marshall Public Library, 201 C. St. Requests for particular accommodations or language assistance in order to participate may email ASD.DHS@state.mn.us as soon as possible and list the type of accommodation needed.
Until next time, have a great Thanksgiving and be safe out on the roads.
Sincerely,
Chris