Why We’re Rallying: Protect Community Living
Everyone deserves the opportunity to live, work, and participate in their community with the support they need. Home and community-based services (HCBS) make this possible for many Hoosiers with disabilities, helping them live as independently as possible, remain connected to their families and communities, and avoid unnecessary institutionalization.
On November 17, the Indiana Disability Alliance (IDA) is bringing together people with disabilities, families, advocates, service providers, and supporters at the Indiana Statehouse to make our voices heard. We want Indiana legislators to understand the vital role HCBS plays in people’s lives and why protecting and adequately funding these services matters.
What Are We Asking of Legislators?
1. Understand what HCBS are and why they matter.
Many people may not realize what home and community-based services include or how essential they are to everyday life. We want legislators to understand how these services support people with disabilities and help them live, work, learn, and participate in their communities.
2. Listen to the people and families who rely on these services.
Every person’s experience is different. We are asking legislators to listen to individuals with disabilities, family members, and caregivers as they share how HCBS supports their daily lives, safety, independence, and participation in their communities.
3. Recognize what happens when services are reduced or unavailable.
When essential supports are lost, people with disabilities and their families can face serious consequences, including reduced independence, increased strain on caregivers, fewer opportunities to participate in the community, and a greater risk of unnecessary institutionalization. We want legislators to understand what is at stake when these services are not available.
4. Invest in funding to address Indiana’s waiting list.
Approximately 15,000 Hoosiers are waiting for services. Behind every number is a person and a family who may be waiting for the support they need. We are asking legislators to prioritize funding that will help address the waiting list and expand access to essential home and community-based services.
5. Recognize that people with disabilities are valued members of our communities and our economy.
Home and community-based services do more than help people meet their daily needs—they open doors to opportunity, connection, and belonging. These services help people with disabilities pursue employment, contribute their talents, support local businesses, build relationships, and take part in the everyday life of their communities. When people have the support they need, everyone benefits. We are asking legislators to recognize that investing in these services is an investment in people, families, communities, and Indiana’s future.
Why Your Voice Matters
The experiences of people with disabilities and their families are powerful. By sharing your story, explaining what services make possible, and speaking directly with legislators, you can help policymakers better understand the real-life impact of their decisions.
Join us at the Indiana Statehouse on November 17 and help us send a clear message: Protect home and community-based services. Invest in community living. Ensure Hoosiers with disabilities have access to the supports they need to live and thrive in their communities.
Together, we can help make community living a reality for more Hoosiers.