Department of Social Services Partnerships
The Agency on Aging of South Central Connecticut partners with The Department of Social Services to administer the following programs for qualified individuals who meet nursing home level of care or are at risk of institutionalization. To have access to these programs, individuals must have a referral, a functional assessment, and meet the specific criteria of each program.
The Connecticut Home Care Program (CHCPE)
The Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE) is designed to assist adults (aged 65 or older) who are at risk of nursing home placement. The goal is to allow qualified individuals who require hands-on assistance in performing at least two essential daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, eating, transferring, or toileting, to remain living at home instead of being placed in a skilled nursing facility. With this program, we help more than 3,000 individuals remain safely at home or in a community setting.
- How to apply: Call DSS toll-free at 1.800.445.5394, option 4, or apply online here.
- For eligibility information and additional information on how to apply, visit My Place CT.
- Existing clients: See contact list.
Community First Choice (CFC)
Community First Choice is a Medicaid benefit program that allows eligible participants to receive Personal Care Assistance (PCA) and other support services through self-direction. This program is intended for individuals who risk being institutionalized and enables them to receive care in their own homes. Participants have the opportunity to hire members of their own community to assist with their personal care needs.
The program is designed to be self-directed, meaning there is no care management involved. Participants must be capable of hiring, supervising, and managing their PCA staff and any additional services under the program independently.
- How to apply: Visit ctmfp.com or call DSS at 1.800.445.5394.
- For eligibility information and additional information on how to apply, visit My Place CT.
- Existing CFC clients with questions: Contact DSS at 1.888.992.8637.
Personal Care Assistant Waiver (PCA Waiver)
The PCA Waiver Program is a Medicaid program that supports those with physical disabilities who require hands-on assistance in performing at least two essential daily living activities, such as bathing, dressing, eating, transferring, or toileting. Eligible clients are between 18–64 years of age and meet institutional level of care. For more information on the eligibility criteria, services available under the program and how to apply please see below.
- How to apply: Contact the CT Department of Social Services at 1.800.445.5394, visit their website, or download the application (PDF).
- For eligibility information and additional information on how to apply, visit My Place CT.
- Existing clients: See contact list.
Money Follows the Person (MFP) Program
Money Follows the Person (MFP) is a federally funded program that allows individuals residing in institutional settings, such as hospitals or skilled nursing facilities, to choose where they want to live, ensuring their dignity and autonomy. MFP provides eligible individuals with various options for receiving care in the community.
If you are in a long-term care facility and wish to return to community living, MFP can help you access the services and resources you need as well as develop a personalized Plan of Care (POC) tailored to support your transition.
- How to apply: Visit ctmfp.com or call DSS at 1.800.445.5394.
- For eligibility information and additional information on how to apply, visit My Place CT.
- Existing clients: See contact list.