When a child is registered with MCB, support is available for families through the Children’s Services program. Children’s services workers have a wide range of information and resources to support the growth and development of children who are legally blind.
Once the child is registered, a children’s services worker will contact the family to schedule a home visit or virtual meeting to offer a complete explanation of available benefits and services geared toward assisting the child reach his or her full potential.
If the family decides they would like to receive MCB services, the children’s services worker will develop an Individualized Service Plan that reflects the goals and needs identified during the intake process. Services are tailored to each child’s needs.
Children’s services workers work with children and families to prepare them and assist with the transition for when they age out of our Children’s Services program.
If a family is not interested in services at the time, they can request services later.
All services are voluntary.
An Individualized Service Plan for a child may include:
• Information and referral about MCB services
• Interagency collaboration with state partners and community organizations
• Case management
• Transitional support
• Advocacy, including for vision services at Individualized Education Plan meetings
• Supplemental Security Income vision screening and referral
• Assistance with applications and procedures for MassHealth programs, including CommonHealth and the Kaileigh Mulligan Program
• Medical Review Team referrals
• A disability placard through the Registry of Motor Vehicles
• Support counseling
• And social recreational activities, which vary by region
Flexible family support funding, as well as camperships and recreational programs, are subject to income eligibility and the availability of funds.