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Developmental & Intellectual Disabilities
Louisiana Programs & Resources

Programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities — from early intervention for infants to employment support and community integration for adults.

Apply as soon as possible Louisiana programs only
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Where to start

These programs form the foundation of support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Louisiana. Most are administered through OCDD (Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities).

Medicaid Waiver — Louisiana

NOW Waiver (New Opportunities Waiver)

Louisiana's primary Medicaid waiver for adults with developmental and physical disabilities. Covers personal care attendant (PCA) services — meaning you can hire someone you trust and pay them through the program. Also covers assistive technology, home modifications, and day programs.

🎂 For individuals who were diagnosed or injured at age 21 or younger. Must be OCDD-eligible.

Apply / Learn More ↗
Medicaid Waiver — OCDD

Children's Choice (CC) Waiver

Provides home and community-based services for children with developmental disabilities ages birth through 20 who live at home with their families. Offers up to $20,650 per year in a flexible support package covering personal care, respite, family training, home modifications, specialized medical equipment, and support coordination.

Must be OCDD-eligible. Contact your local Human Services Authority to begin the eligibility process.

Apply / Learn More ↗ Fact Sheet ↗

Early Intervention — Birth to Age 2

Louisiana Department of Health — OCDD

EarlySteps

EarlySteps provides services to families with infants and toddlers from birth through age 2 (35 months) who have a medical condition likely to result in a developmental delay, or who already have developmental delays. Eligible if the child has delays in cognitive, motor, vision, hearing, communication, social-emotional, or adaptive development.

Services include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech-language therapy, special instruction, assistive technology, nursing services, and support coordination — provided in the child's natural environment. Anyone can make a referral.

Learn More / Refer a Child ↗ Parent FAQ (PDF) ↗

Education, Employment & Community

Vocational / Education

BRCC Job Readiness Program (PSE)

Baton Rouge Community College offers a two-year post-secondary job readiness program for students with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Focuses on career skills, independence, and community integration.

mybrcc.edu/pse ↗
Recreation & Community

BREC Adaptive & Inclusive Events

BREC runs inclusive events and programs for individuals with developmental disabilities throughout the year. Sunshine Socials is one ongoing example — a free recurring social event open to the DD community in Baton Rouge.

View on BREC ↗
Family Support

OCDD Family Support Program

The Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities offers family support services. You must first be deemed OCDD eligible. Start by contacting your regional waiver office to begin the eligibility determination process.

Peer Support

Families Helping Families

A Louisiana statewide parent resource center offering support, education, and advocacy for families of individuals with disabilities. A grassroots network built by families, for families navigating the system.

Book a free face-to-face video call

Sometimes you just need to talk to someone who gets it. Schedule a free one-on-one video consultation — from setting up your first Alexa device to navigating the waiver application process.

What we can cover together

  • 🏠
    Alexa smart home setup — what to buy, how to connect everything, and building routines
  • 👓
    GLASSOUSE pairing and configuration
  • Permobil and wheelchair questions — models, seating, and funding
  • 📋
    Louisiana waiver programs — what to apply for, in what order, and who to call
  • 🖥️
    Computer and phone access — head control, switch access, and Mac accessibility
  • 💬
    General guidance for someone newly injured who just needs to talk to someone who understands
This is completely free. No catch, no sales pitch. Just a real conversation with someone who has been where you are.

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