As a result of a needs assessment survey sent to all consumers in our seven county CIL service area, CRI established an Expansion Program which includes the following services: Self Help Workshops, Homemaker services, Accessibility Fund and Emergency Medical Supplies.

Community Resources for Independence's Expansion Program answers an assortment of needs often encountered by CRI consumers. The program is a safety net for consumers facing emergency situations, which are not covered by CRI's primary services. In addition, the Expansion Program presents workshops designed to enhance community awareness of the disability rights movement.

In the 10 Self Help Workshops that were held in the seven county service area, consumers discussed Advocacy Tools including: managing positive interactions with others, medical assistance for the disabled, and advancing the PA State Share Ride Program.

The Homemaker services provides services for consumers who may or may not qualify for attendant care. These services are essential to individuals who are ineligible for attendant care but still need services. During the year we provided 15 consumers a total of 900 hours of service.

The Accessibility Fund was created to assist consumers with renovating homes to provide better access to bathrooms or other areas within the home. The fund allows for the purchase of chair lifts, vehicle controls, hospital beds, special abed baths, and shower rehab equipment. There is a special emphasis on building ramps so individuals can get in and out of their home. CRI has built 17 ramps, completed 6 renovations and funded 13 equipment requests. Presently there are 43 projects at different stages of development. CRI works with individuals who own their home and will also work with individuals who rent homes or apartments as long as the landlord is willing to split the costs. CRI also investigates all other funding sources before expending funds.

CRI case managers carry emergency supply kits with them to deliver needed items such as Chux(tm), Depends(tm), wound dressing materials, catheters and more. CRI will purchase certain supplies to provide for the consumer on an as needed basis. CRI has provided 24 consumers with emergency supply kits or special order supplies.