Servicing NYC and Long Island
For parents of medically fragile infants and children, every bit of support goes a long way. There are myriad details involved — getting approvals, scheduling appointments, getting medications, not to mention the challenges of caring for the child themselves. It’s an impossible balancing act. C-YES (Children and Youth Evaluation Services) is a New York State program that approves eligible children for HCBS (Home and Community Based Services). This includes respite and family support services, services that go a long way in helping parents adjust to their new situation and better care for their child.
Children ages 0-21 can be eligible for HCBS services — even if they aren’t currently insured by Medicaid — by applying via the C-YES program.
Participants must meet these criteria to apply for this service via Hamaspik of Kings County.
When I gave birth to a second child with the same serious medical condition as the one I was already dealing with, I was overwhelmed, to say the least. There were two medically fragile children to care for 24/7 — I was not on Medicaid and couldn't afford any extra help.
My search for options led me to reach out to Hamaspik. When my sons got approved for HCBS services through C-YES, the relief was indescribable.
I finally received hands-on help at home with my children, easing the intense burden of constantly being tuned in to their many needs. My coordinator advocated for my sons to get services they’re eligible for. She also provided me with resources to understand my sons’ rather rare condition and connected me with support groups where I met other moms dealing with similar diagnoses.
Thanks to my DSP being on hand to care for my children, helping to feed and entertain them, so much time and energy was restored to me — time and energy that I could then give back to my family and better focus on their needs.
“It's not just that it makes a difference. It makes THE difference!”
“There’s nothing like helping a person in their most vulnerable time. When parents arrive home with the enormous responsibility of a medically fragile child, we can help them get lifesaving services and even refer them to other services.”
Reach out to us. We’ll help you start the process and submit your application to the C-YES department.
Questions? We’re always here to help.
This beautiful fillable and downloadable childcare masterchart will organize your child’s medical information, appointments, allergies, important contacts and dozens of other details.