our programs
PRE-ADMISSION SCREENING
Our coordinators complete comprehensive assessments and provide documentation to verify that a person has an intellectual disability and meets the criteria for state-funded services. Our staff works with the individual and their family to develop and implement a plan to access the needed services and support.
Looking for services for the first time?
Questions about PUNS?
Contact our intake coordinator for more information at:
(708) 799-9190
What is PUNS?
PUNS is a database of Illinois children, adolescents, and adults with developmental disabilities who want or need developmental disability services. The PUNS database helps the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) identify and plan for your services.
How do I enroll on PUNS?
Individuals and their family and/or guardian (if applicable), must meet with their local Independent Service Coordination (ISC) Agency to complete PUNS enrollment. The individual must provide information on their developmental disability, living arrangement, and their desire and/or need for community-based services. This will allow the ISC Agency, on behalf of DDD, to determine whether an individual should be enrolled on PUNS and if other services/supports are appropriate.
Note: Enrolling on PUNS does not guarantee eligibility for services or that services will be provided.
What services can I receive if I am selected from PUNS?
- In-home Supports
- Supported Employment with or without a Job Coach
- Residential Living Arrangements
- Self-Direction Assistance
- Adaptive Equipment
- Other Supports
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INDEPENDANT SERVICE COORDINATION
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.
For more information please call out office at:
(708) 799-9190
PRIORITIZATION OF URGENCY OF NEED FOR SERVICES (PUNS)
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.
For more information please call our office:
(708) 799-9190
INDIVIDUAL SERVICE AND SUPPORT ADVOCACY
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.
For more information please call our office at:
(708) 799-9190
CHILD AND FAMILY CONNECTIONS
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.