Services
Direct support at home and in the community
Support should not stop at the front door. Our direct service workers help people with disabilities do what they want to do, at home and out in the world.
The short answer
Direct support means trained workers helping a person with a disability with daily living and community life: building skills, getting to work or school, appointments and outings. In Florida, iBudget Florida waiver services such as personal supports and life skills development can pay for this for people who qualify, and Aster Care serves Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco.
What it looks like
- Practicing daily skills: cooking, budgeting, using the bus.
- Going along to work, classes, appointments and social activities.
- Help with personal care when it is part of the plan.
- A steady person who knows the routine and the person's goals.
How it gets paid
| Program | Service | Who |
|---|---|---|
| iBudget Florida | Personal supports | Adults 21+ in the family home, or 18+ in supported living or their own home |
| iBudget Florida | Life skills development 1 (companion) | Age 21 and older |
| iBudget Florida | Respite | Under 21 in the family home |
| Medicaid home health | Personal Care Services | Under 21 |
| Private pay | Any of the above | Anyone |
If the iBudget waiver is new to you, start with our iBudget guide. If you want to hire your own workers, including relatives, see CDC+.
We serve families across Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties.
Questions families ask
Can you work with our Waiver Support Coordinator?
Yes, that is how iBudget services are planned. Have your coordinator call us, or call us first and we will explain what we need.
Are direct service workers licensed?
Direct service workers are not licensed professionals. Florida requires background screening and training for the service they deliver.