Serving Individuals and Families Across Northeast Georgia
How can my loved one receive funding for services at Hope Haven?
Funding is received through Medicaid waivers, not Hope Haven. A Medicaid waiver is money that may be used to pay for services for a person with intellectual, developmental, or physical disabilities. There are two types of medicaid waivers: New Option Waiver Program (NOW) and Comprehensive Support Waiver Program (COMP).
NOW offers services and support to enable individuals to remain living on their own or in their family home and participate in the community. COMP serves individuals with more intensive needs, primarily those with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities who require residential care. A waiver can take years to receive, so apply sooner than later.
How Do I Apply for NOW & COMP?
Step One: Make Sure You Are Eligible for Funding
To qualify for NOW and COMP, you must already be eligible for Medicaid and:
- Have a diagnosis of an intellectual disability prior to age 18 and/or a closely related developmental disability
- Have significant deficits in adaptive functioning in specific areas
Step Two: Gather What You’ll Need
- Proof of Citizenship
- Social Security & Medicaid Card
- Relevant psychological reports and/or documents from schools or other intermediate care facilities
Step Three: Fill Out and Submit Your Application
You can apply for these waiver programs by mail or in person. To access the application forms, please visit georgia.gov.
Next Steps:
- Funding and types of services will be recommended based on DBHDD’s assessments.
- If you are eligible for NOW/COMP, service providers will develop an annual service plan based on your strengths, needs, and interests.
- NOW/COMP services must be renewed every year.
Need help navigating the application process or interested in learning more about our services? Call and speak with our Program Specialist at 706.548.4361 ext 207 or email tequela@hopehaven.net.
Private Pay Options
At Hope Haven, we believe everyone deserves access to meaningful opportunities, supportive relationships, and an active role in their community. Our Private Pay Services allow individuals and families to receive high-quality support even if they are not currently receiving a Medicaid waiver.
These services are a great option for individuals who are on the waiting list for a Medicaid waiver, exploring services for the first time, or simply looking for additional support. If you’re not sure where to begin, our team is happy to help guide you through the process. We currently only offer two services through private pay options: Community Access Group and Supported Employment.
Community Access Group
Our Community Access Group helps individuals build friendships, develop life skills, and stay actively engaged in the community.
Participants work with Hope Haven to create a schedule that fits their needs and goals. While schedules are flexible, they must be established before services begin so we can ensure the best support and planning for each individual.
Community Access activities may include:
- Social outings and community events
- Life skill development
- Building friendships and social confidence
- Exploring hobbies and interests
- Practicing independence in everyday settings
Supported Employment
Our Supported Employment services are designed to help individuals find meaningful work and gain the skills needed to succeed in the workplace.
With our Supported Employment services, we help you discover the type of work you would like, learn the skills needed, and provide monthly visits to ensure you are comfortable within your position.
Hope Haven partners with Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency to support individuals who are on the planning list for the Medicaid Waiver. Through this partnership, GVRA assists with job development and identifying employment opportunities that match each individual’s interests and strengths, while Hope Haven provides ongoing support staff and guidance.
Individuals interested in Supported Employment must already be on the waiver waiting list in order to participate in this program.
Get Started with Private Pay Services
Hope Haven is committed to helping individuals discover their abilities, build confidence, and live meaningful lives within their community.
If you or a loved one are interested in private pay services or navigating the waiver application process, our team would love to talk with you. Contact us today to learn more or to schedule a tour.
Program Specialist – Tequela Willoughby | tequela@hopehaven.net | 706.548.4361 ext.207
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can my loved one receive services if they are waiting for a Medicaid waiver?
Yes. They can receive community access services through private pay and/or supported employment through GVRA funding while waiting for a medicaid waiver. This allows them to begin receiving support, building skills, and participating in programs sooner.
2. What is Supported Employment?
Supported Employment helps individuals with disabilities find and maintain meaningful jobs. Services include job exploration, skill development, workplace support, and ongoing check-ins to ensure success and comfort in the position.
3. Who helps with job development?
Hope Haven partners with Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency, which helps individuals identify job opportunities, explore interests, and develop employment plans.
4. How do I get started?
You can contact Hope Haven to learn more about private pay, supported employment, or community access programs. Our team will walk you through the next steps and help determine the best options for you or your loved one.
Program Specialist – Tequela Willoughby | tequela@hopehaven.net | 706.548.4361 ext.207