What is Coordinated Family Support?

Coordinated Family Support (CFS) is a relatively new service in California's developmental services system, established to help adults with developmental disabilities who live in their family's home. CFS is designed to make navigating and coordinating services and supports easier for both the individual and their family .

Unlike direct care services that provide hands-on assistance, CFS focuses on coordination, navigation, and future planning. It helps families access and manage the various supports available to them, reducing the complexity and stress of navigating multiple systems.

Key Characteristics:

- Personalized and Adaptable: Services are tailored to the changing needs and preferences of the individual and their family, respecting their language, culture, and home environment .

- Adult-Focused: CFS is specifically for individuals age 18 and older who live in their family home .

- Coordination, Not Duplication: CFS does not replace or duplicate the role of the regional center service coordinator—it works alongside them to enhance support .

- Future-Oriented: A central component is planning for the time when aging caregivers can no longer provide support .

What Services Are Provided?

CFS providers help families with a range of coordination and planning activities, which may include :

- Public Benefits Navigation: Assisting with applications for programs such as Social Security, Medi-Cal, In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS), and other public benefits.

- Community Resource Connection: Identifying and connecting with local resources, support groups, recreational activities, and other community-based services.

- Future Transition Planning: Developing long-term plans for when primary caregivers are no longer able to provide care, including identifying potential future caregivers and services .

- Systems Navigation: Helping families understand and access services across education, healthcare, housing, and other systems.

- Information and Guidance: Providing information about available regional center services and how to access them effectively.

The Goal of CFS

The ultimate goal of Coordinated Family Support is to empower families caring for an adult relative with developmental disabilities by providing the tools, knowledge, and connections needed to navigate service systems effectively and plan for a secure future .