Everyday Support

Maryland Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA)

The Developmental Disabilities Administration helps eligible Marylanders with developmental disabilities access services that support daily life, employment, and participation in their communities. Depending on a person’s eligibility and available funding, services may include support coordination, employment or day services, help at home, and residential supports.

How to start: Complete the DDA eligibility application and gather records that describe the disability and how it affects daily life. Submit the signed application to the appropriate DDA regional office. DDA reviews the information, may request more documentation or an assessment, and sends a written eligibility decision. Being found eligible does not mean services begin immediately: funding and waiver enrollment are separate steps, and some applicants may be placed on a waiting list. Families and adults can apply even if they are still planning for future needs.

Helpful links: DDA eligibility and application materials · Application process · Central Maryland Regional Office

Questions about applying? Contact the Central Maryland Regional Office at 410-234-8200 or 877-874-2494.

Maryland Access Point

Maryland Access Point is a place to start when you know you need help but are unsure which program to contact. It connects older adults, adults with disabilities, and caregivers with information about community services, long-term supports, benefits, housing, transportation, and ways to remain independent. Its online directory lets you search for services, while its staff can help you sort through options.

How to start: Search the directory for the service you need, or contact Maryland Access Point and explain where you live, what help you are seeking, and whether the need is immediate or part of future planning.

Helpful links: Maryland Access Point · Search for services · Ways to connect

Phone: 1-844-MAP-LINK (1-844-627-5465).

Harford County Office on Aging

Despite its name, the Office on Aging has some services that may be useful to adults with disabilities under 60, particularly those who have Medicare. Its State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) offers free, confidential help understanding Medicare coverage, plan choices, bills, and appeals. The office also connects residents and caregivers with information about long-term care and local supports. Its Long-Term Care Ombudsman helps residents of nursing homes and assisted living facilities address concerns about their care and rights.

Where to start: If you have Medicare because of a disability, ask specifically for SHIP. If you need broader disability services, ask the office about Maryland Access Point. Other Office on Aging programs may have age or program-specific eligibility requirements, so describe your situation when you call.

Helpful links: Office on Aging · SHIP Medicare counseling · Long-Term Care Ombudsman · Caregiver resources

SHIP: 410-638-3025 or medicarehelp@harfordcountymd.gov.

Maryland Assistive Technology Program

Assistive technology is a tool or device that makes a task easier or more accessible. It can include communication devices, computer access tools, reading supports, adapted equipment, and other technology for home, school, or work. Maryland’s Assistive Technology Program offers device demonstrations and short-term loans so people can try equipment before deciding what meets their needs. Its programs also include equipment reuse, information and referrals, and financing options.

How to start: Tell the program what task you want to accomplish rather than beginning with a particular product. Ask about a demonstration or loan, current device availability, and whether you can receive support remotely. Some programs provide equipment at no charge; financing is a loan that must be repaid.

Helpful links: Assistive technology programs · About the Assistive Technology Program

Phone: 1-800-832-4827.

Maryland Equips: Reused Medical Equipment

Maryland Equips helps people obtain previously used durable medical equipment, such as wheelchairs, walkers, and bathroom safety equipment. The state’s durable medical equipment reuse program accepts donated items, checks and prepares them for reuse, and provides available equipment to Maryland residents who need it. The program serves people of different ages; the type of equipment requested determines what information or professional input may be needed.

How to start: Review the available equipment categories and application instructions. For complex equipment, such as some wheelchairs, ask what documentation is required before applying. Equipment availability varies, so contact the program about your specific need and pickup arrangements.

Helpful links: Maryland Equips · Durable Medical Equipment Reuse Program

Phone: 240-230-8000.

211 Maryland

211 Maryland connects residents with information about food, housing, utility assistance, health care, mental health support, disability services, and other community resources. It can be especially useful when several needs overlap or when you need help finding the right local organization. Its disability resource page is a starting point, and its broader directory covers needs beyond disability-specific programs.

How to start: Call 211 and explain what you need and your ZIP code, or search the online resource directory. If a listing is a possible match, contact the provider to confirm its current eligibility and availability.

Helpful links: Disability services · Browse 211 Maryland resources · 211 Maryland home.

The IMAGE Center of Maryland

The IMAGE Center is a Center for Independent Living serving Harford County, Baltimore County, and Baltimore City. Centers for Independent Living are led by people with disabilities and work across disability types. The IMAGE Center can help people explore independent living goals through information and referrals, peer support, skills training, advocacy, and support with transitions into community life.

Who may find it useful: An adult who wants more control over daily routines, needs help finding accessible housing or technology resources, wants to build practical living skills, or would benefit from talking with peers who have lived experience with disability. Contact the center to discuss what support fits your goals.

Helpful links: The IMAGE Center · Maryland’s Center for Independent Living directory

Phone: 410-982-6311.