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Family Support Services (FSS) Program

The Board maintains a family support services program (FSS) to assist individuals or family members of individuals who are county board-eligible to remain in and be supported in the family home.  

  • Before applying for FSS, you must first be determined eligible for Stark DD services. 
  • Eligibility is reviewed at ages 3, 6, and 16. 
  • If you are not sure whether you are eligible for Stark DD services, call our Intake Department at 330-479-3582.

FSS Funding Overview

FSS applications open May 28, 2026 at 8:00 a.m.

FSS Application 

Funds are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis to eligible applicants until exhausted. 

  • Applications must be completed online.

  • Assigned Stark DD Service and Support Administrators (SSAs) will review applications, and families will be notified by email of their status (approved amount, denial, or waitlist placement).

The program operates on a fiscal year from July 1 through June 30, with an annual allocation of $750 per eligible individual.

Please note:

  • FSS does not cover services funded through Medicaid State Plan or Habilitation Center (ICF) services.
  • Individuals receiving an adoption subsidy, placed through foster care, or enrolled in an HCBS waiver (or similar program) are not eligible.

Stark DD’s Family Support Services Program operates on a fiscal year beginning July 1 through June 30. The annual allocation per eligible individual is $750.00

New in 2026: 

  • Applications now must be completed online. 
  • If you need help completing the application, contact your assigned Service and Support Administrator (SSA) or the SSA Intake Department at 330-479-3582.

What Happens After you Apply?

  • An assigned SSA will review your application.
  • You will receive an email notification with:
    • Approval and funding amount
    • Denial
    • Or waitlist status

Who is Not Eligible for FSS Funding?

FSS funds cannot be used if the individual:
  • Receives services funded through the Medicaid State Plan
  • Lives in an Intermediate Care Facility (ICF)
  • Is enrolled in a HCBS waiver or similar funding source
  • Is placed through foster care
  • Is adopted and receiving an adoption subsidy

What can FSS funds be used for?

  • Respite
  • Counseling or Training
  • Adaptive/Specialized Equipment
  • Home Modifications
  • Incontinence Supplies (age 3+)
  • Special Diets
  • Medical Expenses
  • Community Programs, Camps, and Activities

Find more information on what FSS can be used for here: FSS Funding Use Options.pdf

Respite Care & Choosing a Respite Provider

You CAN choose:

  • Certified providers from Stark DD
  • Friends or neighbors (18+)
  • Family members who do not live in the home

You MUST:

  • Sign a form accepting responsibility for your family member’s care
  • Understand Stark DD is not liable for providers you choose

You CANNOT use:

  • Someone living in the same household
  • A biological parent

Additional Notes:

  • Stark DD employees may provide care if no conflict of interest exists
  • Some paperwork is required before using respite funds

Is there a Vendor List?

A vendor list is available to review to see a list of providers that are available to provide supports and resources to your family through the NEON request process.  This is not necessarily an exhaustive list.

How to Request Payment for Services or Reimbursement

  • Starting July 2026, NEON (North East Ohio Network) will assist Stark DD in managing the FSS Program. All purchase and reimbursement requests will be processed through NEON. 
  • You will contact NEON to request use of your FSS funds.  
  • Important: It is recommended that you get approval before spending money. Expenses you pay before getting approval may not be reimbursed. 

Please refer to the list identifying items that are covered and not covered using FSS funds here: FSS Funding Use Options.  

How FSS Payments Work

Once NEON receives all required documents, they will issue payment within 45 days.  
  • NEON may pay your service provider directly or reimburse you. 
  • Payments will show NEON as the payer, but the money comes from Stark DD local funds.
NEON Contact Information:
  • Phone: 330-792-6413
  • Email: starkfss@neoncog.org     
  • Mail: 721 Boardman-Poland Rd, Ste 103, Boardman, OH 44512   
  • Website (Scroll to bottom for Stark County): www.neoncog.org 

What happens when FSS program funds run out?

Families who apply for the FSS program when funds are unavailable will be placed on the FSS waiting list.

  • Waitlist placement is based on the date and time their request is received. 
  • Once all fund allocations have been dispersed, applications will no longer be accepted.  

Waitlist & Urgent Needs

  • If an emergent need arises, contact your SSA, and the situation will be reviewed to determine how assistance can be provided.  
  • Waitlist placement is based on date and time of application
  • No SSA? Reach out to SSA Intake

  • SSA Intake Contact: