Blind Children’s Vocational Discovery & Development Program

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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 a 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 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 tailored to each child and family's needs and circumstances. 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 the vocational discovery and development process
• Provide training to increase children independence and ability to participate in vocational related activities
• Provide information about additional resources

By working with the entire family, HHS can help children develop the concepts and skills needed to realize their full potential.

What Services can my Child Who is Deafblind Receive?

If your child has both vision and hearing loss, your child and your family may get:

• Technical assistance and consultation services
• Resources on educational intervener trainings
• Information on deafblindness, including effective strategies to support children with combined hearing and vision loss
• Information and support in finding local, state and national resources

Where Can I Apply for Services?

You can:

• Email the Blind Children’s Program at BlindChildrensProgram@hhsc.state.tx.us
• Call the HHS Office of the Ombudsman
  • 877-787-8999, select a language, and then select Option 3.
  • Submit your request online
• You also can contact a local office to learn more.

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.