The 2020 Kansas Disability Caucus has been cancelled due to concerns about the Coronavirus. However, plans are being made to hold some caucus sessions virtually. More information on that will be released soon. Please see this cancellation announcement for more complete details.
SNAP Program Benefits & Eligibility Update
Posted On: April 27, 2020
Categorized: Independent Living
All households participating in SNAP will get the maximum benefit per their size beyond May. Emergency allotments for SNAP food assistance are extended on a month-by-month basis. For example, a household of one will now automatically get their monthly food benefits increased to $194. Families of four will get $646 per month.
Now is the time to apply for SNAP food assistance. More Kansans will get more food benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic. Even before the pandemic, many Kansans were not accessing SNAP. Two in three eligible seniors did not participate last year. The emergency allotments will also boost the food budgets of many working families and individuals with disabilities who receive small amounts of benefits per month.
By applying for SNAP, you’re also helping your community and local economy. Participation numbers help your school district qualify for universal free meal programs (i.e. CEP). In times of economic hardship, food benefits keep our local grocery stores afloat. SNAP participants pumped $265 million into the Kansas economy last year. These pandemic-related SNAP provisions will add well over $100 million more benefits this year. For every $1 of SNAP food benefits you spend at the store, you will be generating $1.70 of economic activity.
How to apply:
- DCF’s self-service portal at: cssp.kees.ks.gov
- Paper applications are available outside DCF service centers. You can leave your completed application(s) in drop boxes outside the centers.
- Harvesters Community Food Network can help you apply via phone: (877) 653-9522
More information: harvesters.org/Get-Help/Snap
You can see the State’s Emergency Food Assistance Frequently Asked Questions for more information.
Don’t miss the Shawnee County Research & Extension’s event on Monday, April 27, at 3 p.m. with Harvesters and Wesley House for a LIVE SNAP application walk-through and updates on SNAP during COVID-19: https://www.facebook.com/events/711941599548949/
Stimulus Checks for SSI Recipients
Posted On: April 16, 2020
Categorized: Independent Living
Tagged: ssdi, ssi, stimulus check, taxes
The U.S. Treasury Department has announced that individuals receiving SSDI and/or SSI will automatically be sent stimulus funds. However, those who have who have qualifying children under age 17 must enter information as soon as possible to receive the $500 per dependent rebate. Those who have dependents should visit the IRS website and complete the steps listed there.
Here’s the information you will need to have ready:
- Full name, current mailing address and an email address
- Date of birth and valid Social Security number
- Bank account number, type and routing number, if you have one (otherwise you will be sent a check)
- Identity Protection Personal Identification Number (IP PIN) you received from the IRS earlier this year, if you have one
- Driver’s license or state-issued ID, if you have one (If you don’t have one, leave it blank)
- For each qualifying child: name, Social Security number or Adoption Taxpayer Identification Number and their relationship to you or your spouse
We have started a list of localized resources, services, and changes to businesses, agencies, and other organizations on our resource page. Remember to check it often as the information changes quickly. If you know of a resource in your area please share it with us by commenting here or emailing us with the details at info@rcilinc.org
RCIL has received some phone calls from concerned Direct Support Workers regarding the need for travel documents while they are working for their consumer during “stay at home” ordered periods. RCIL has received official direction from the Kansas Department of Aging and Disability Services that Home and Community Based Services (HCBA) are considered essential healthcare. KDADS said, “We are being assured by the Emergency Operations Center that there will be no widespread efforts to stop folks to ensure they are out and about for an “essential” reason. We have seen the letters that other industries have been issuing to their employees and we have been told those will not be necessary. At this time, I would just assure consumers and DSWs that they can perform their essential travel/duties. If something changes, we will let everyone know.”
Helpful Tips on Self-Directing Your Home and Community Based Services from our friends at GRAIL
Posted On: March 23, 2020
Categorized: Independent Living
Consumers and Direct Support Workers – here’s an important list of Self-Direction-Preparation tasks to keep in mind to prepare and protect yourselves during this COVID-19 health crisis.
In an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19/Coronavirus, RCIL offices are closed to the public until further notice. Limited staff will be working in the main office in Osage City to ensure that FMS/HCBS payroll is issued as scheduled.
Questions? Call 785-528-3105 between 8:00 – 4:00, Monday-Friday.
Need to submit paperwork? Please scan and email it to payrollhelpdesk@rcilinc.org or fax it to 785-528-2938.
RCIL offices are taking the following precautions due to the COVID-19 Coronavirus:
We encourage all consumers, direct support workers, and other potential visitors to handle all business and communications with us over the phone, by email, and fax whenever possible. If you must come to the office make sure you meet the criteria set forth by the KDHE and understand office restrooms are closed to the public.
RCIL Event Cancellations:
- All March and April Friends group meetings
- Lyon County Job Fair (March 19th)
- Parsons Low-Vision Fair (April 7th)
- Manhattan area Low-Vision Independent Living Skills Classes (April 23rd & 30th)
Now Hiring! Resource Center for Independent Living (RCIL) – Emporia Office
Posted On: February 20, 2020
Categorized: Employment
Tagged: coffey, Disability, Emporia, full-time, job opening, lyon, osage, youth
Two full-time positions with excellent benefits and competitive pay.
- Case Manager/Independent Living Specialist (ILS) –The person hired for this position will deliver our Core Services (Information & Referral, Independent Living Skills Training, Advocacy, Peer Support, youth transition and nursing facility diversion/deinstitutionalization) to individuals with disabilities. The ILS also works with other organizations on related issues, organizes a peer support group, performs outreach/education on RCIL services, organizes group trainings, and much more. This position is funded by a grant from Kansas Rehabilitation Services.
- Youth Transition Specialist –Funded by a grant from the, Walter S. and Evan C. Jones Testamentary Trust, Bank of America, N.A., Trustee, RCIL is looking to hire someone that will work well with young people between the ages of 14-24 and their families to provide an enhanced level of Core Services focused in the unique needs of a person transitioning into adulthood.
We need self-starters that will represent RCIL well and are passionate about working with people with disabilities. Bachelor’s degree preferred. The ILS will work with consumers in Lyon, Marion, Chase, and Morris counties and occasionally in Coffey and Greenwood counties. Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred. The Youth Specialist will work in Lyon, Osage and Coffey counties.
RCIL, a non-profit organization, gives hiring preference to qualified individuals with disabilities.
Interested? Call Adam Burnett or Deone Wilson at 785-528-3105 or apply by submitting cover letter, resume and three references to hr@rcilinc.org.
RCIL is seeking volunteers to assist with building ramps for individuals with disabilities who need accessible entrances and other minor home modifications. The RCIL Build a Ramp Program provides eligible individuals with home modifications at no cost. If you are interested in volunteering your time and skills or materials please contact RCIL at 785.528.3105.