MAIN ISSUE: The need for a professional Support Service Provider Program for DeafBlind citizens of Texas
- Texas has one of the largest populations of DeafBlind citizens in the U.S.
- Combined hearing and vision losses equals profound isolating effects in the community for previously sighted and/or hearing or deaf adults.
- Existing continuum of services for DeafBlind individuals in Texas lack this major accommodation for otherwise autonomous DeafBlind adults.
- More than 20 states already have a SSP Program.
- Currently, most SSPs are volunteers on an informal e-mail listserv.
A VIABLE SOLUTION: Pass and establish a Texas Pilot Program for Professional SSP Services for Persons who are DeafBlind
- The community of autonomous DeafBlind adults need this accommodation to better access their environment and make informed decisions.
- SSPs assist with accomplishing everyday tasks. Examples are:
- Reading the mail,
- relaying visual descriptions of the environment,
- providing transportation to and from locations, such as grocery stores, medical appointments, and many other personal errands as well as allowing participation in community events.
- SSPs do NOT have the responsibility of licensed caretakers and/or Interpreters.
- SSPs services do NOT replace or overlap existing DeafBlind rehabilitation or waiver services in our state.
- The DeafBlind Community in Texas WANTS this program.
- This program will be a high impact solution for the needs of a low-incidence disability.