Under FDSS the individual and family’s knowledge of their needs and priorities is respected. Families work in partnership with the Supports Coordinator (case manager) in the base service unit to access services and supports.

At least once a year, families develop a service plan with their case manager, using cash advances, vouchers, program-funded services, informal supports, and community resources.

The Purpose of FDSS is to:

• reduce stress on families.
• keep families together and prevent premature residential placement of people with mental retardation.
• improve the ability of families to meet the needs of the family member with disabilities
• help families find and use available resources.

Through FDSS you can:

• Get connected to community and specialized resources and services
  • medical, spiritual, educational, and recreational
• Purchase
  • respite, recreation, family aide, education, minor adaptations to the home, adaptive equipment, innovative services, therapies, and homemaker service.
• Develop your advocacy skills - Gain knowledge of issues and work with other parents to improve services for people with disabilities.

Family Forum, a sixteen page newsletter that provides information on resources, advocacy and is a vehicle for sharing among families, is mailed to all community families.

FDSS Coordinators - there is a FDSS Coordinator in each Supports Coordination Organization agency. 

Family Advisory Committees
Families have responsibility for planning, implementing, evaluating and setting priorities for FDSS services through the family advisory committees in each of the twelve base service units. Advisory committees oversee the program, conduct outreach, educate, train and support family members and advocate for the needs of individuals with mental retardation.

FDSS is for you, if:

• you live in Philadelphia
• a member of your family has mental retardation (and lives independently or with family)

Remember...

• there is no income requirement
• FDSS is not an entitlement; monies are allocated annually
• you need to be registered 

History
Since 1972 Philadelphia has been providing family support services. In 1988 the family-driven approach was piloted and since 1990 the entire city has been served by this model.

For information or to register contact your neighborhood Support Coordination Organization.