Quarterly Updates from DRC - April 2024

Self-Advocacy Assistance and Information for Transition-Age Youth

"We contacted DRC to get some guidance when we were seeking further educational opportunities for our daughter who has Down syndrome. They helped us with making her college dream possible. Tricia and the rest of the staff was excellent. She helped us every step of the way. We are extremely grateful for their assistance!"

-Betty, DRC Client's Parent

Related Resources:

1. iTransition App
Web and device-based app for students with disabilities to use to help transition to adult life.

2. Total and Permanent Disability (TPD) Discharge Program
Americans with disabilities can get their student loan debt erased tax-free under this program!

3. Know Your Special Education Rights: A Guide for Parents and Students in Kansas

Financial Assistance and Legal Representation for Crime Victims

"I was forced to move because of harassment from a neighbor, despite all efforts to resolve the situation. Management where I lived did nothing. I called the Disability Rights Center and spoke with someone there. They were very helpful and even helped me get an attorney for my court appearance.

Moving was very expensive. They had financial resources to help pay my rent for several months and even helped me file a protection order. I truly appreciate everything they did for me. If you think you have run out of resources, consider reaching out to the Disability Rights Center."

-Vicki, DRC Client

Related Resources:

1. The Disability & Aging Crime Victims Unit (DACVU)
Learn more about DRC's DACVU Team.

2. Disability & Aging Crime Victims Unit Rehousing Assistance
If you are a Kansas crime victim, have a disability or you are a senior, and the crime made the place you live or used to live unsafe and you need a safe place to live, we may be able to help.

Kathy's Bill Passed

Kathy’s Bill (SB 333) passed the Senate 36-1 on Friday, April 5, 2024. It’s on its way to the Governor! This is a bill Kathy Lobb, former DRC Board member and self-advocate rock star, has been working to pass her whole career. Kathy’s Bill will give people with disabilities preference in hiring, promotion, and retention for state government jobs. Congratulations, Kathy!

Read an Article about Kathy's Bill by the Lawrence Times

Housing Scams

There are signs on street corners, information is sent to you in the mail, and you see commercials advertising things like: "We Buy Houses!", "Rent to Own", or "Reverse Mortgages For You". These claims are often SCAMS trying to take advantage of you. We have seen many clients fall victim to these scams. We have new resources with information about how these scams work, how to avoid them, and what to do if you are victimized. Check them out below.

Housing Scams Information

Client Assistance Program (CAP)

Anyone who wants to work can with the right services and supports! Through the CAP, DRC helps Kansans with disabilities seeking or keeping a job better access and obtain Vocational Rehabilitation services. DRC’s CAP program can help you make informed choices throughout the Vocational Rehabilitation and Independent Living process. Learn more about the CAP in our new flyer.

Home and Community Based Services (HCBS)

HCBS are critically important to individuals with disabilities’ daily lives. HCBS Waiver services for Kansans with disabilities are separate from Medicaid healthcare services. Without HCBS Waiver services from the state, out-of-pocket costs for these support services can cost families roughly $50,000 per person, EACH YEAR. The waitlists for the Intellectual and Developmental Disability (I/DD) and Physical Disability Waivers in Kansas have skyrocketed in recent years, causing Kansans with disabilities to suffer without services for several years (I/DD Waiver waitlists are 11 years!).

Check out this video to learn more and hear from Theo and Trevor about what HCBS services mean to them.

Your Vote is Your Voice! Use it!

The 2024 Primary Election will be here before we know it. Take note of some important deadlines and be sure you are registered to vote.

July 16: Deadline to register to vote or update your voter registration info

July 30: Last day to apply for an advance voting mail ballot

August 6: PRIMARY ELECTION (All advance ballots by mail must be postmarked by Election Day and received by August 9)

DRC is Here to Help

DRC has attorneys and advocates who provide free advocacy and legal services for disability rights. We help with many different disability rights issues. Our Disability & Aging Crime Victims Unit (DACVU) helps both Kansans with disabilities and Kansas seniors who have been victims of crime. Need assistance? Don't wait. Contact us today.

Zealously advocating for the disability rights of Kansans to protect their full participation as citizens.