MEDIA CONTACT
Laura Strimple, (402) 580-9495
Jeff Powell, Jeff.Powell@nebraska.gov
Lincoln, NE – Governor Jim Pillen joined leaders from the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Madonna Ability Alliance, participants and families in celebrating Developmental Disabilities (DD) Awareness Month and the progress DHHS has made in eliminating the DD Waitlist to improve support for Nebraskans with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
“Together, we can create strong Nebraska communities where all can thrive and receive the support they need at the time they need it," said Governor Pillen. “One of the biggest achievements of eliminating the DD Waitlist is expanding services to support kids. This is a tremendous way we can provide everyone a piece of the support system and create a better life for our kids and generations to come. Our kids are our future, and it is our responsibility to build a better world for kids now and those to come."
Historically, the DHHS Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) has maintained a waitlist for developmental disability waivers. The State's new approach to DDD services will provide a full continuum of care adaptable to an individual's changing needs as they grow. It includes:
- Medicaid for DD eligible children that meet the required level of care,
- Additional access to family support and day services waivers that allow families to live together,
- Case management services for individuals that do not require waiver services,
- Employment services,
- Comprehensive DD waivers based on a nationally validated needs assessment adopted by DHHS with the support of stakeholders,
- New models of staffing including remote supports and Legally Responsible Individuals (LRI) as paid providers for personal care, and
- Expansion of independent providers.
“This initiative will promote independence and self-determination. Earlier access to resources improves the health and well-being of the individual receiving care, their families, caregivers, and others in their community," said Dr. Steve Corsi, CEO of DHHS.
“I cannot think of a more exciting way to close out Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month than to celebrate the accomplishments of folks with IDD, and the folks that offer services and leadership to the DD community," said Tony Green, Director of DDD. “Entering into April 2025, 720 Nebraska kids and adults remain on the DD Waitlist. In the past 12 months, DHHS has made a total of 2,479 waiver offers. We have made great strides in eliminating the DD Waitlist, but the work is not yet done."
The news conference on March 31 was hosted by Madonna Ability Alliance, a local organization supporting individuals with IDD from pre-kindergarten through adulthood with a full continuum of education and services.
“Madonna Ability Alliance programs provide individuals with a foundation to achieve their full potential at school, work, home, and in the community. We are excited and grateful to celebrate with Governor Pillen all that has been done to pave the way for all Nebraskans to access support in their local communities," said Jon Burt, President of Madonna Ability Alliance.
For more information on programs for individuals with IDD, or to apply for services, please visit the DDD website: https://dhhs.ne.gov/Pages/Developmental-Disabilities.aspx
