Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) recently announced a new workforce development program that includes retention bonuses for direct care workers who provide Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) to people with disabilities and older adults.

PICS loves celebrating transitions! A lot of changes happen for young adults as they get ready for life after high school. At PICS (Partners in Community Supports), we’re here to help you find services that meet your needs.

The transition from pediatric to adult health care may seem daunting, but with careful planning and preparation, it can also be a time of growth and opportunity.

When you are the parent of a child with a disability, the transition to adulthood can be an exciting time of growth and change. It can also be a little scary and overwhelming. There are so many different things to think about. Help your child find any needed supports to achieve the life they want.

The PICS Social Justice Work Group joins mourners worldwide in remembering the life of Judith “Judy” Heumann, who died on March 4, 2023. Judy is widely regarded as “the mother of the disability rights movement.

When you have a child or loved one with a developmental disability, it is important to make plans regarding decision-making before they reach the age of 18. At that point, parents no longer have the legal authority to make decisions on behalf of their child. Two options are Guardianship and Supported Decision-Making.

The U.S. government has announced that the federal Public Health Emergency for COVID-19 will end on May 11, 2023. That will be the last day of the waiver allowing spouses and parents of minors to provide personal care assistance (PCA) services as paid caregivers. If this change impacts you or your loved one, contact your county or tribal office case manager or managed care organization care coordinator.

During the months of January and February, PICS (Partners in Community Supports) is sponsoring content in the Sahan Journal. Sahan Journal is “dedicated to reporting for immigrants and communities of color in Minnesota.”

“I can tell her what I need and what I don't need.” With those 12 words, Mary Solis succinctly states one of several benefits of the in-home supports that she receives from her daughter, Brenda Solis.

Now that 2023 has begun, you may have started thinking about completing your 2022 taxes. Like most years, Tax Day this year is in April – specifically April 18, 2023 – so you have plenty of time to file. If you’re getting a start already, here is everything you need to know about PICS and your taxes.