Effective July 1, 2018, Texas Peer Assistance and Leadership (PAL) project launched to coordinate peer support services offered by Texans with developmental disabilities living in state-support living centers, nursing homes, or intermediate care facilities.
Texas SILC has partnered with both Valley Association for Independent Living (VAIL) and Disability In Action (DIA) to provide direct services while Texas SILC will administer the grant.
Project PAL creates a new program that provides training to at least 25 Texans with developmental disabilities to serve as a Peer Support Specialist; enables more people living in institutions to have access to services and supports; and educates leaders and members of the community the importance of ensuring Texans with disabilities living in and out of institutions can exercise their right to vote and have access to Independent Living supports and services.
Financial Support for Peer Support Specialists for Individuals Living in Institutions is provided by the Texas Council for Developmental Disabilities, with Federal funds made available by the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Administration on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. $125,000 (84%) DD funds; $23,808 (16%) non-federal resources.