our programs

Our specially trained coordinators partner with families who have a member who has an intellectual disability, our provider agencies, and the Department of Human Services to develop individualized service plans, to arrange for delivery of services, and to ensure access to services. Assistance is available from the individual’s birth throughout adulthood.

Illinois Prioritization of Urgency of Need for Services (PUNS) is a statewide database which serves as a waiting list for individuals who are planning or seeking Developmental Disability Waiver Services through the Illinois Department of Human Services/Division of Developmental Disabilities. Individuals who are eligible for PUNS enrollment are those suspected to have a developmental disability or a related condition (i.e. Intellectual Disability, Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Epilepsy, Traumatic Brain Injury). All new PUNS enrollments are conducted face-to-face with one of our Individual Service Coordinators (ISC) who is a registered Qualified Intellectual Disability Professional (QIDP).

Click the below link for the State of Illinois’ Prioritization of Urgency of Need link. 

Our staff meets quarterly with the individual and their family to review service plans and programs, to determine if needs are being met, and to ensure that the services provided are person-centered and address the individual’s desired goals. 

• We are available to advocate for individuals who receive Home and Community Based Services Waiver (HCBS Waiver) such as CILA, HBS, and Day Programs funded by DHS’ Division of Developmental Disabilities.
• We work for your Independent Service Coordination (ISC) Agency. This means we are separate from DHS and from the provider that is supporting you.
• Individual Service and Support Advocacy or ISSA is a state mandated program so there is no cost for this support to you or your guardian.

 Family Connections #7 serves children and their families residing in West Suburban Cook County, ages 0-3 years. 

The Child and Family Connections office at Suburban Access provides   a dedicated early intervention team to support your family and help your child get the care they need.

 Your Service Coordinator can answer your questions about your child’s development. They can help you decide if your child might benefit from an evaluation. Early Intervention support and services are paid by the early intervention program, your private health insurance, or public insurance such as Medicaid or All Kids. Planning and coordinating services for your eligible child and family are always free.