D D Services

This information is brought to you by the staff at Island County Public Health (ICPH)

Traditionally, the State has defined Human Services as mental health, substance abuse and developmental disabilities services, and has provided program funding. Each of these areas has a designated County Coordinator who staffs citizen advisory boards, helps with program planning, writes contracts and grants, and oversees budgets. Most services are provided through private community organizations and agencies under contract with the County.

Many would be surprised to know that hundreds of Island County citizens are helped every year through these programs. Unless you have had personal contact with someone who has been served by these programs, you may not even know of their existence. However, if you've ever experienced a need in one of these areas, you know that these services can literally be lifesaving for an individual or a family.

Some of the things that you and I take for granted seem to be out of reach for people with developmental disabilities. Friends, a job, a valuable place in the community are often missing from their lives. They are often segregated and separated, denied jobs or appropriate education and access to a community life.

We have come a long way since facilitating placement of the formerly institutionalized back into our community. Early childhood education, more appropriate public education, job training and support, assisted living, family support services and many other supports and services that are now available in our community help people with developmental disabilities stay in their community and help them find what we all want and need... a place to belong.

If you or someone you know needs help or information in any of these areas, please call the following number:

(360) 678-7880; or (360) 321-5111; or (360) 629-4522

ICPH

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Community & Family Health
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