Family Support
To locate a Family Support Program Provider in your community, click here to search the Pathfinder database. On the database search page, select your county and "Family Support Program" then click on "Search."
You may also be interested in these Pathfinder service categories: Advocacy Services, Support Groups, In-Home Assistance. Click here to look up service definitions.
The following information about Tennessee's Family Support Program is provided from the Division of Mental Retardation Services (DMRS). For more information about Family Support, including specific guidelines, provider agencies, council members, and answers to frequently asked questions, visit the Family Support website.
2008-2009 Statewide Family Support Agencies
Click here for the Family Support Program brochure.
What is Family Support?
In 1992, at the urging of disability advocates and families, the Tennessee legislature established the Family Support Program. The program is funded by state dollars and designed to assist individuals with severe disabilities and their families to remain together in their homes and communities. Family Support is not a substitute for more comprehensive services provided under other programs, including the Medicaid HCBS Waiver, TennCare, Medicare, or private insurance.
Who Is Eligible?
The primary purpose of the program is to support
Who is eligible for Family Support?
Persons with severe disabilities who meet eligibility criteria and are residing in the community in an unsupported residential setting. Many families who apply may be approved as elible for services but selection will depend on funding availability and priorities set by local councils.
Can I receive funding from the Family Support Program and a waiver program through the Division of Mental Retardation Services?
If families are receiving the Consumer Directed Supports during a fiscal year they cannot receive Family Support funds. If a family is receiving the Self Determination or Community Based Waiver they could receive funds from the Family Support Program if the agency’s local council does not have priorities exempting families receiving funds from both programs. There cannot be a duplication of services between the two programs.
How does a person apply for the Family Support Program?
There is a Family Support agency for every county in the state. Contact the Division of Mental Retardation Services Regional or Central Office to find out what agency has the Family Support contract for your county or click here to search the Pathfinder database. On the database search page, select your county and "Family Support Program" then click on "Search."
How does a person get approved for the Family Support Program?
The individual must have a severe disability and meet the eligibility criteria established for the program. It is important to note the distinction between eligibility and selection and enrollment. Many families who apply to the Family Support Program may be approved as eligible for services based on the definition of family, severe disability, and living circumstance. However, depending on the resources and local council priorities, a few families may actually be selected to receive services and be enrolled in the program.
What services are available through Family Support?
Services are designed to be flexible and responsive to individual or family needs. Services might include but are not limited to: respite care, before/after care, day care, home/vehicle modifications, specialized equipment/repair/maintenance, nutrition/clothing/supplies, personal assistance, transportation, homemaker services, housing costs, health related costs, nursing, counseling, summer camp, and evaluation. The program funds services and needs that are not covered by traditional resources.
How much funding can I receive?
The current limit on benefits if $4,000 per individual with a severe disability in a family. However, depending on Family Support resources and Local Council priorities, you may get less than $4,000.
If I am approved for the Family Support Program and my needs change during the year, can I revise the services in my Family Support Service Plan?
Yes, the program is designed to be flexible and recognizes that family needs may change during the year. Services can be added or changed as long as money is available in the existing Family Support Service Plan.
Will I receive the same amount of money each year?
An individual/family has to reapply each year for Family Support funding. Allocations each year are based on the availability of state funds, needs of the individual/family, and Local Council priorities.
Will the Family Support agency assist me in finding a Respite Care provider?
Once a local council has approved a family to receive funding from the program it is up to the family to find the provider or services they need.
Can the Family Support Program pay my Respite Care provider?
If you are approved to receive funding for respite care you will need to ask your Family Support agency if they can pay your respite care provider directly. Each agency develops their own accounting system for the distribution of funds to families.
What can I do if I have an unresolved complaint pertaining to the Family Support Program?
If the conflict cannot be resolved with the agency Family Support Coordinator, there is a formal Grievance/Appeals process. If you do not have a copy of the Grievance/Appeals process, ask the Family Support Coordinator for a copy.
Tennessee Family Support Council members are needed!
Family Support services are community-based and locally operated. We encourage persons with disabilities and family members to take part in a District and/or Local Family Support Council. If you are interested in becoming a Council member contact jan.coatney@state.tn.us.