March 2024
Note: Services listed do not imply endorsement by HKNC. The information listed is self-reported by the program. The terminology used in this document is unique to each program (for example the spelling of the word “DeafBlind” or use of the term SSP or CoNavigator). This program listing is provided for informational purposes only. These are the known programs in the United States. Several other states/metropolitan communities have active work groups investigating the possibility of establishing SSP or CN services.
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PENNSYLVANIADeafCAN! – Deaf Community Action Network A Human Services Program of Christ the King Deaf Church 730 S. New Street, West Chester, PA 19382 Scott Stoffel, SSP Coordinator 484-319-4245 videophone; 610-436-9751 voice William Lockard, DeafCAN! Program Director www.deafcanpa.org (features video of the SSP program) Service Area: 7 counties in SE Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, Delaware, Chester, Montgomery, Bucks, Berks, and Lancaster) Funding Sources: Grants and other donations Eligibility: Verify deaf-blindness and be able to direct the services of an SSP Number of Individuals Served: 20; but we also provide volunteer SSPs at social events for consumers not registered with the service. Preferred Terminology: SSP Certification/Endorsement: None at this time Types of Service Requests: each consumer can have up to 10 hours of SSP service each month and can use SSPs at their own discretion. SSP Training Requirements: Each candidate is evaluated as to their knowledge and experience and must pass a functional evaluation of the basic skills of being an SSP. Program Coordination: Consumers can contact the coordinator or SSPs directly for requests, and then report any agreed assignments to the coordinator. The SSP coordinator is a part-time, paid position. Transportation: The SSP’s role is during the actual assignment, not the transportation. Consumers negotiate their own agreements for transportation with the SSP which can include their personal car or public transportation. DeafCAN cannot pay for driving due to insurance regulations. SSP Pay Rate: Paid SSPs receive $30/hour. Mileage reimbursement for volunteer SSPs is $0.65/mile. Other: This service is separate from the state’s DBLWS service. Consumers can and do use both services.
Step Up Services, LLC 1321 Montrose Ave, Bethlehem, PA 18018 Heather Snyder, Owner 610-417-4291 voice https://stepupservicesllc.com/ Service Area: Pennsylvania Statewide Program Established: March 2023 Funding Sources: Funding through the PA Office of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing (ODHH) Eligibility: Age 18 or older, have hearing AND vision loss, and must be able to self-direct services Number of Participants Served: 64 (increasing weekly) Preferred Terminology: SSP Certification/Endorsement: training provided by the PA ODHH is endorsed by the Helen Keller National Center Types of Service Requests: DeafBlind consumers have 15 hours per month to use as they wish: errands, medical, recreation, hobbies, reading mail, paying bills, socializing, eating out, shopping, haircuts, almost anything! Training Requirements: For DeafBlind Consumers: The Owner of Step Up Services will meet with you to discuss the program and your preferences. For SSPs: The SSP Coordinator will make sure all appropriate clearances and paperwork are on file. SSPs are required to attend an SSP Training provided by the PA ODHH which is endorsed by the Helen Keller National Center. Program Coordination: Full-Time Transportation: Yes, if requested and the SSP is willing/able. It is not a requirement of the program. SSP Pay Rate: The hourly rate is $20/hour. Travel time and mileage reimbursement are not provided. | ||