For families of individuals with physical or intellectual disabilities, every day brings challenges and incredible moments of growth. But behind every accomplishment is a network of support systems that make it possible. In Pennsylvania, A Bridge to Independence plays a critical role in that support system by helping families navigate services, secure funding, and ensure their loved ones receive the care they deserve. As an accredited Supports Coordination Organization, A Bridge to Independence stands beside families every step of the way, offering guidance, advocacy, and compassion.
When Families Don’t Know Where to Start, We Help Them Take the First Step
When a loved one gets a diagnosis or a family reaches a point where they can no longer handle care on their own, the path ahead can feel overwhelming. Forms. Assessments. State programs. Healthcare requirements. Waiting lists. Funding approvals.
Too often, families are left to figure it out on their own.
A Bridge to Independence ensures they don’t have to.
We help individuals determine eligibility for state-funded programs in Pennsylvania, including:
- Adult Autism Waiver
- Attendant Care Waiver / Act 150 Program
- Community HealthChoices (CHC) Long-Term Services & Supports
- OBRA Waiver
- Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Services (IDD)
These programs offer vital services, including personal care assistance, help with daily activities, employment support, transportation, nursing, therapy, respite care, and more. Our role is not simply to connect people to these services but to guide families through every step, so they can focus on what matters most: caring for their loved ones.
Advocating for Funding Because Care Should Never Depend on a Family’s Financial Situation
The reality is that care is expensive. Without state-funded programs, many families would be forced to choose between work and caregiving, or sacrifice their own health trying to do everything alone.
Access to funding isn’t a luxury; it’s a lifeline.
A Bridge to Independence works tirelessly to help individuals secure funding for the services they are entitled to. This means:
- Helping families navigate the Medicaid waiver process
- Managing paperwork and timelines
- Coordinating assessments and evaluations
- Ensuring ongoing services continue without interruption
The funding available through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania allows families to receive critical support at home and in their communities, rather than being forced into institutional care. Our advocates help make that possible.
Care Coordination with Heart
Supports Coordination is more than scheduling services. It’s listening.
It’s asking questions others don’t think to ask:
- Is this individual happy? Are they challenged? Are they included?
- How can we help them experience more independence, not less?
- What support does the caregiver need to avoid burnout?
We believe that every person deserves dignity, choice, and independence. Our team creates care plans that honor individual preferences, cultural needs, family circumstances, and long-term objectives. And because life changes, we update plans as needs shift.
Strengthening Families by Reducing Stress and Restoring Hope
Behind every individual receiving services is a family doing everything they can.
Sometimes they need a voice in the room. A partner to help advocate for them. We work with doctors, therapists, direct care workers, employment providers, and state agencies to ensure families don’t get lost in the system. Through personalized Supports Coordination, we help achieve what every family wants: a meaningful, fulfilling life for their loved one.
Families often tell us:
“I finally feel like someone is on our side.”
That is why we exist.
A Future Where Independence Is Possible
A Bridge to Independence believes every person—regardless of diagnosis, ability level, or socioeconomic background—has the right to:
- Live in the community they choose
- Participate in meaningful activities
- Work and contribute to society
- Be supported, not overlooked
With proper funding and coordinated care, independence is not only achievable but also sustainable. Learn more at abridgetoindependence.org.
