Each year, hundreds of Texas families turn to Texas Health and Human Services (HHS) for information and support for their children who are blind or visually impaired. A blind children's specialist from the Blind Children's Vocational Discovery and Development Program (BCVDDP) works with each child and family to create an individualized family service plan tailored to the child's needs and circumstances. It’s a flexible document that will develop along with the child.
How do I know if my Child is Eligible?
Children between the ages of birth and 22 years who live in Texas and have a vision impairment may be eligible for services. See the information below to apply for services.
What Services can my Child Receive?
The program offers services to address the needs of each child and family. BCVDDP can:
- Help children develop the confidence and competence needed to be an active part of their community
- Provide support and training to parents and caretakers so they understand their rights and responsibilities throughout the educational process
- Assist children and their families in maximizing independence and future career aspirations using the vocational discovery and development process
- Provide training to increase a child’s independence and ability to participate in vocational related activities
- Provide resource information
By working with the entire family, HHS can help children develop the concepts and skills needed to realize their full potential. Additional information on the program here.
What Services can my Child who is DeafBlind Receive?
BCVDDP has DeafBlind specialists who work with children who are DeafBlind and their families . DeafBlind specialists collaborate with families and the child’s blind children’s specialist to develop an individualized family service plan that meets the unique needs of a child with a combined vision and hearing loss. Some services BCVDDP DeafBlind specialists offer are:
- Specialized consultation and planning services based on the current needs of the child
- Effective strategies to support children with combined vision and hearing loss
- DeafBlind communication information
- Collaboration with DeafBlind community partners to provide resources and trainings to children and their families
Where can I Apply for Services?
You can:
- Email the Blind Children’s Vocational Discovery and Development Program at BlindChildrensProgram@hhs.texas.gov
- Call the HHS Office of the Ombudsman
- 877-787-8999, select a language, and then select Option 3.
- Submit your request online
What are my Child’s Rights?
Texas Health and Human Services is committed to providing services to our applicants and clients in a fair and nondiscriminatory manner. This obligation to comply with federal and state laws and regulations extends to service contractors, as well as any other agency, institution, or organization participating in a health and human services program by contract or other arrangements.
The Civil Rights Office has the responsibility to:
- Investigate claims of discrimination
- Conduct new, periodic, and special compliance reviews of offices, programs, and contractors
- Provide training and guidance
- Take other appropriate steps to ensure that programs and services do not discriminate.
For more information, visit the Civil Rights Office website.