People who are limited in one or more major life activities – hearing, seeing, thinking or memory, walking or moving, taking care of personal needs (bathing, feeding, dressing) or living independently – are said to have a disability. Some disabilities begin at a young age, while others are the result of accidents, injuries or simply growing older.
The American Community Survey, also known as the Census, estimates 3.4 million Texans -- or 12.9 percent of the population -- had a disability in 2014. These men, women and children are eligible for a range of state and federal services including rehabilitation, medical equipment, help finding a job, medical care and personal attendants.
Texas Health and Human Services (HHS) is ready to meet the challenge of providing these services. HHS provides a range of services to Texans with disabilities that help ensure their well-being, dignity and choice. Programs also are in place to support family members who care for them.
For Additional Information after reviewing this information, you may have questions or concerns. You are encouraged to visit speak to your MRA representative in person. You may find it useful to speak with people who are receiving services or their family members. Your MRA representative can help you do so. Additionally, there are organizations that provide advocacy and information to people with IDD and their family members. The following listing is offered for your convenience.
Disability Rights Texas
7800 Shoal Creek Blvd, Suite 171-E
Austin TX, 78757-1024
512-454-4816
1-800-252-9108
www.disabilityrightstx.org
EveryChild Inc.
8400 N MoPac, Suite 201
Austin TX 78759
512-342-8844
1-877-742-8844 (toll free)
www.everychildtexas.org
Parent Association for the Retarted of Texas, Inc (PART)
PO Box 9733
Austin TX 78766-9733
www.ourparttexas.com
Texas Council for Development Disabilities
6201 E. Oltorf, Suite 600
Austin TX 78741-7509
The Arc of Texas (and Texas Advocates)
8001 Centre Park Drive, Suite 100
Austin TX, 78754
1-800-252-9772
www.thearcoftexas.org