The CDS program lets adults with disabilities use Medicaid to hire someone – even a friend or relative – to help with cleaning, cooking, shopping, bathing, and more.
We can guide you through the process of transitioning from a nursing home (or residential facility) back into the community through the Money Follows the Person (MFP) program.
IL Skills, Information & Referral
We can guide you as you learn Independent Living skills (budgeting, cooking, etc.) that will help you live independently. We also provide Information & Referral services to help you learn about all of the community resources available to you.
Accessibility
Is your home, business, or public space accessible to people with disabilities? We are here to offer advice about ADA compliance, emergency preparedness, and home modifications (installing ramps, etc.).
Advocacy & Peer Support
We educate the public about disability issues and encourage people with disabilities to advocate for their rights. We host the People First of Missouri self-advocacy group.
Resources in the Community
If you are looking for community resources, the best thing to do is contact us so that we can learn about your situation, ask you some questions, and direct you to the community resources you may find useful.
If you just want to browse some area resources, a good place to start is with the information we have collected here.
If you are a representative from a nonprofit or public service organization and would like to be invited to our networking meetings, please contact us at meril@meril.org.
Here is a tentative schedule of our 2023 networking meetings:
Friday, April 21, 11:30 am (in person in Maryville)
Monday, May 15, 11:30 am (in person in St. Joseph)
Wednesday, June 7, 11:30 am (in person in Cameron)