Bend forum Oct. 26 on changes to home, community-based services

The Oregon Department of Human Services is hosting educational forums on Monday, October 26 in Bend.

Providers, consumers and their family members are invited to discuss upcoming changes to federal and state requirements for children who receive services in community-based settings such as residential or foster care homes. These requirements focus on ensuring that children who live in these settings have the same rights and community access as people of similar ages without disabilities.

Who: The sessions are open to all interested people with a focus on providers and families of children age 17 or younger receiving services in a Developmental Disability residential service setting, such as a foster care or 24-hour residential service settings. Attendance is free. Registration is not required.

What: There will be a presentation about the federal and state requirements, known as Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS), and the changes that can be expected during the next couple of years. Information also will be shared about the surveys being sent to both providers and consumers or their guardians. Agency staff will be available to answer questions and offer guidance.

Where: Deschutes County Building, DeArmond Room, 1300 NW Wall St., Bend

When: There will be two sessions, each covering the same information:
* 1:30 to 4 p.m.
* 5:30 to 8 p.m.

For Information on all of the HCBS Educational Forums: http://www.oregon.gov/dhs/seniors-disabilities/HCBS/Documents/Kids%20Regional%20Forums%20Oct-Nov%202015%20dates-locations%20FINAL%209-29-15.pdf