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Redwood’s Supports in California

Families and caregivers play a vital role in every individual's success. Our California team provides guidance, advocacy, and resources that help families confidently navigate available services and supports.

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Residential & Home Support

Personalized residential and home-based services that help individuals live safely, comfortably, and as independently as possible while remaining connected to their communities.

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Day & Community Programs

Programs focused on skill development, community participation, social engagement, recreation, and personal growth.

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Crisis & Behavioral Support

Specialized crisis intervention, prevention, stabilization, and behavioral support services designed to help individuals remain safely in their homes and communities while reducing the likelihood of future crises.

Funding & Reimbursement

Many services in California are funded through Regional Centers and other state-supported programs designed to help individuals access needed supports.

Regional Center Funding

Most services are authorized through Regional Centers and reimbursed through their Purchase of Service (POS) departments based on approved service plans and individual needs.

Funding and service authorizations are designed to support individualized, person-centered care and ensure individuals receive the services that best meet their goals.

Private-Pay Services

In some situations, families may choose to privately fund certain residential or support services based on their individual circumstances and needs.

Our team can help individuals and families better understand available funding options and service pathways.

Self-Determination Program (SDP)

The Self-Determination Program (SDP) is a voluntary alternative to the traditional Regional Center service delivery model that gives individuals and families greater choice and control over how their Regional Center funding is used. Participants receive an individualized budget and have the flexibility to select the services, supports, and providers that best meet their unique goals and preferences.

Redwood Family Care Network is proud to partner with individuals and families participating in the Self-Determination Program by providing high-quality, person-centered services tailored to each person's vision for their life. Our team works collaboratively with participants, Independent Facilitators, Financial Management Services (FMS) providers, and Regional Centers to ensure services are coordinated, responsive, and aligned with each individual's self-directed plan.

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How to Access Support

Navigating disability services can feel overwhelming, but understanding the process is the first step. While requirements vary by state, most individuals and families follow a similar path to access services and supports.

Step 1: Check Eligibility with Your State

The first step is determining eligibility for developmental disability services in your state. This often involves completing an application, providing documentation related to a diagnosis or disability, and participating in an assessment process.

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Step 2: Gather Documentation

Having the right information ready can help make the application process smoother and faster. While requirements vary by state, you may be asked to provide some or all of the following:

Personal Information

  • Full name
  • Address
  • Phone number
  • Parent, guardian, or conservator information (if applicable)
  • Information about disabilities, diagnoses, or support needs

Medical Records & Healthcare Information

  • Health insurance cards (private insurance, Medicaid, Medicare, etc.)
  • Contact information for doctors, specialists, psychologists, therapists, and other healthcare providers
  • Information about hospitals, clinics, or healthcare organizations where services have been received

Evaluations, Reports & School Records

  • Developmental evaluations and assessment reports
  • Screening results from healthcare or educational providers
  • Early Intervention, Early Start, or Head Start documentation
  • School records and contact information for schools attended
  • Individualized Education Program (IEP) documents, if applicable
  • Reports or recommendations from schools, clinics, or other service agencies

Tip: Don't worry if you don't have every document available. Many state agencies and service coordinators can help you identify what information is needed and how to obtain it.

Step 3: Apply

Contact Your Local Regional Center

Our team in California would be happy to help guide you through this journey. Reach out today!

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Helpful Tips for Navigating Disability Services

Request Your Preferred Provider

Focus on What Matters Most to You

Be Honest About Challenges & Barriers

Include Family, Friends & Trusted Supporters

Use Your Own Words

Keep Important Documents Organized

Ask Questions

Remember That Needs Can Change

If you already know which provider you'd like to work with, let your service coordinator, case manager, or state agency know. In many cases, individuals and families have a choice in selecting their service provider and can specifically request Redwood Family Care Network or one of our family of brands.

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Need help on your journey?

Contact Our California Team

Think about what's important to you in your daily life. Where do you want to live? How do you want to spend your time? What goals do you have for work, education, relationships, or community involvement? Identifying what matters most can help ensure services are built around your unique needs and aspirations.

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Need help on your journey?

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Consider any challenges that make it difficult to do the things you enjoy or achieve your goals. Sharing these barriers helps service coordinators and providers identify supports that can make everyday life easier and more fulfilling.

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Need help on your journey?

Contact Our California Team

You don't have to navigate this process alone. Involve family members, friends, guardians, advocates, or others you trust in conversations and planning meetings. Their insights can help ensure your voice is heard and your goals are fully understood.

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Need help on your journey?

Contact Our California Team

You don't need to know specific program names or service terminology when requesting support. Simply describe what you're experiencing, what assistance you need, and what would help improve your quality of life. Service coordinators can help identify the programs and services that may be right for you.

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Need help on your journey?

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Gathering medical records, evaluations, school documents, and other paperwork ahead of time can help streamline the application process. Keeping these documents in one place makes it easier to access information when needed.

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Need help on your journey?

Contact Our California Team

It's okay if you don't understand every step of the process. Disability service systems can be complex, and asking questions is an important part of advocating for yourself or your loved one. Don't hesitate to ask for clarification, additional resources, or guidance along the way.

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Need help on your journey?

Contact Our California Team

Services and supports are not one-size-fits-all. As goals, circumstances, and needs evolve, support plans can often be adjusted. Regularly reviewing your goals helps ensure you continue receiving the services that best support your success and independence.

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Need help on your journey?

Contact Our California Team

Let’s take the next step together

Whether you're seeking support for yourself, a loved one, or someone you support professionally, our team is here to help.