Lt. Gov. Crouch Announces $1.63M To Assist Adults With Disabilities

“The pandemic has disrupted the life of every Hoosier,” Crouch said. “These partnerships will reconnect Hoosiers with disabilities to their crucial support systems, while also creating new ways for these individuals to thrive and pursue their aspirations. This federal CARES Act funding will help quickly remove some of the social divide COVID-19 has caused.” 

The program’s goal is to help develop innovative technology strategies and cultivate strong community partnerships to address the negative social, economic, and health effects of COVID-19 on Hoosiers with disabilities and to increase community and workplace inclusion for this population.  

“I’m so proud to see these communities took innovative steps to partner with local organizations to provide assistance is a variety of ways to Hoosiers with disabilities,” said Denny Spinner, executive director of OCRA. “These projects are the first step in ensuring no Hoosier is left isolated and partnering with DDRS to make it happen demonstrates the type of collaboration necessary to create a road to recovery.”  

Grant activities for this program implement strategies, including virtual or technology-assisted activities, that address lack of internet access and technology equity, or social isolation and lost access to natural supports. 

Eligible applicants include a local unit of government, which include counties, cities, or incorporated towns, both entitlement and non-entitlement communities.  Each applicant partnered with a qualifying developmental disability non-profit organization that serves adults (18 and older) with disabilities within the geographical area. 

“Due to the pandemic, Hoosiers with disabilities are experiencing various disruptions to their day-to-day supports that they utilize to ensure community inclusion.  I appreciate the partnership with Lt. Gov. Crouch and OCRA to provide this opportunity for municipalities and providers to develop innovative technology solutions to mitigate COVID-19 related barriers to community inclusion,” said Kylee Hope, director of the Division of Disability and Rehabilitative Services.

This grant opportunity is made available due to supplemental CDBG Coronavirus (CDBG-CV) funds authorized under the CARES Act. More information on another round of funding will be released by the middle of March.    

Below is a summary of the projects being funded for this round. For more program information, visit in.gov/fssa/ddrs/community-connections-for-people-with-disabilities.