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Health Partners Of Western Ohio - New Carlisle Community Health Center

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Health Partners Of Western Ohio - New Carlisle Community Health Center

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There are providers on site that are available to determine health care and medical needs. The clinic can provide screenings and care for individuals that are ill, along with referrals for other conditions.

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© 2022 Health Partners of Western Ohio

This health center receives HHS Funding and has Federal Public Health Service (PHS) deemed status with respect to certain health or health-related claims, including medical malpractice claims, for itself and its covered individuals. For more information, see http://www.bphc.hrsa.gov/ftca

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This health center receives HHS Funding and has Federal Public Health Service (PHS) deemed status with respect to certain health or health-related claims, including medical malpractice claims, for itself and its covered individuals. For more information, see http://www.bphc.hrsa.gov/ftca

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Job & Family Services Of Clark County Services

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Job & Family Services Of Clark County Services

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Offers many resources that can help people find or maintain a job. Other government benefits provided can include SNAP Food Stamps, Child Care Assistance, Medicaid, and Transportation assistance programs through Workplus.
Short term cash assistance can be provided for basic needs such as rent or groceries as part of the Ohio Works First (OWF) Program.
Also have a special focus helping low-income families with childcare. To determine if an individual or family is eligible for childcare assistance, they can be reached at
(937)327-1700 for more information.

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1. Apply for Assistance
The online benefit application allows Ohioans to apply online for food assistance, cash assistance and Medicaid.
Learn More

1. Child Advocacy Center
Child Advocacy Center continues to expand services to help our children
Learn More

1. Need help locating a service?

2-1-1/Information and Referral is available 24 hours a day/ 7 days a week. Get help with solutions to everyday problems. Call 2-1-1 or use the on-line searchable database to find services including healthcare, counseling, food pantries, transportation, employment, volunteering, recreation, legal aid, tutoring, and much more.

Visit: http://www.referweb.net/uwcc

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Clark County DJFS, OH | Official Website

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Create an Account - Increase your productivity, customize your experience, and engage in information you care about.

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Find Local Help Paying Bills, Debt, Rent, Medical and Mortgage Assistance

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Find Local Help Paying Bills, Debt, Rent, Medical and Mortgage Assistance

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Database that can help individuals and families find local assistance programs for a variety of resources.

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Many government programs, community action agencies, charities, churches, and local non-profit organizations provide short term rent or mortgage help. There are places for free hotel vouchers, utility bill assistance and/or low income housing. The support provided to tenants or homeowners also involves stabilization services to help the family keep their current home or apartment. This includes transitional housing.

Tenants often need help too. Funds can pay back rent, security deposits, and help tenants avoid an eviction. Learn more on rental assistance. But sometimes the tenant is faced with an unexpected crisis and need assistance within days. This is when emergency rental assistance can assist them. There are also federal government programs in all states for housing stability. As an example, find section 8 applications.

Many states and banks direct homeowners to government mortgage assistance programs. Or they offer other housing resources. There is foreclosure mediation, free home repairs, provide grants to help homeowners with paying their mortgages or other costs. All of the financial help or free mediation services will help prevent or stop the foreclosure process on a home. Or they help low income families purchase a house. There are many ways to get mortgage help or loans for closing costs or down-payments.

An estimated 15% of the population is considered to be "food insecure". Luckily there are many places to turn to for free groceries or hot meals. There are food pantries, programs for lower income senior citizens such as Meals on Wheels, SNAP and government aid, and charities that focus on helping children. Find a detailed listing of food pantries as well as government assistance.

Most towns, cities, and even rural parts of the country have free food pantries as well. They can be at local churches or charity organizations. There are thousands across the country, and find a food pantry near you.

Free medical and dental care assistance

There are some assistance programs for low income families, the uninsured as well as those living in or near poverty levels. They include Medicaid or free clinics that offer health care. Many families lack comprehensive dental coverage as well. They too can get assistance from free dental clinics.

There are other programs that can help reduce, or even provide free medical or dental care. Resources range from discount cards to charity care, prescription drug assistance, payments plans and much more. Each program is different. They can cover a portion of health insurance premiums. Low income families can also get help with vision needs, including glasses of free free eye exams.

Patients can also use third parties, such as medical billing advocates or enroll into payment plans, to help ensure they are receiving the most competitive price on their care. Many other options are available as well, and find affordable or free medical care.

Disability benefits

These additional resources will be in addition to any SSI benefits. If the situation is dire enough, there can also be funeral or cremation assistance provided to the very low income or indigent. Charities often provide that support. In addition, many state and federal government and non-profits offer disability help as well as referrals.

Debt assistance for loans, credit cards, and unpaid bills

Banks often provide relief to their customers. There are consolidation programs, refinancing, and other forms of credit card help. All lenders offer some form of assistance in paying loans, credit cards, and other bills.

Medical debts are also a major concern with the escalating cost of healthcare. Patients can apply for medical bill help from their provider. They will help low income patients, those on Medicaid, the disabled or senior citizens. Or look into how to get help with hospital bills.

Free assistance for seasonal living expenses

There are many organizations that offer free items year round . Some government agencies will offer money for paying bills, transportation costs or housing needs. Other charities help by offering free furniture, household stuff, or appliances. Charities also offer everyday items, including free diapers, hygiene items, and more to the needy. All sorts of assistance is provided. Find how to get stuff for free.

In addition to those resources, families can turn to the regional holiday meal, food as well as localized free Christmas toy or presents programs. There will tend to be assistance given to children, infants, and teenagers from low income households or whose parents are in a financial crisis. Find programs that may offer help for the holidays.

Transportation assistance

Transportation is needed for work, job training, school, and other purposes. Many low income families struggle to afford a car or pay for public transit. There are charities and well as non-profits that offer assistance for transportation, if it is work related. This can include a free car for low income families.

But it cost money to keep the car in operation. Some charities will go above and beyond to offer help. As an example, there are grants to pay for automobile repairs. Or there are churches or volunteers groups that pay for the parts and do the labor for free. There are also charities that pass out free gasoline vouchers.

Free legal assistance

Attorneys from non-profit law firms can provide legal assistance to very low income families as well as senior citizens. The advice from a lawyer can help prevent evictions and they offer free foreclosure prevention assistance. There is also representation for civil problems, free advice on mortgage delinquency solutions, and legal help for utility service disconnections. Information on free legal advice.

Extra income, money saving tips and budgeting

There are also ways for you to make in effect free money . Options including using cell phone Android and iPhone apps, cashback websites, applying for certain government grants and more. While each of these is limited in what it will pay out, the extra cash can help families pay their bills or of course it can be saved. Find how to make free money for paying bills.

Loans that help pay bills, including for emergencies

Families that are struggling due to past challenges can also get financial assistance from loans for borrowers with no credit. Charities, private lenders, and even some government programs may provide these funds. Borrowers with limited or poor credit scores may also quality for this form of financial aid.

There are also no-interest loans available. The cash is available for paying bills, car repairs, housing costs, debt reduction, and more. The funds will eventually need to be repaid, but the interest rate is zero and other fees are often waived. Find more details on free loans for families.

Need Additional Help With Bills? Send us an email @ info@needhelppayingbills.com Include your email address and state. It is needed to send a reply to your request. Or visit or register in the community forum (link below) and we will reply to your message there. There are many charities as well as government resources that offer assistance with paying bills, debt, back rent, mortgage help, and more.

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Find Help Paying Bills, Debt, Rent, Medical and Mortgage Assistance

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Many government programs, community action agencies, charities, churches, and local non-profit organizations provide short term rent or mortgage help. There are places for free hotel vouchers, utility bill assistance and/or low income housing. The support provided to tenants or homeowners also involves stabilization services to help the family keep their current home or apartment.

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Opportunities for Individual Change (OIC)

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Opportunities for Individual Change (OIC)

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Offers limited utility bill assistance including both energy and water assistance programs. Clients must have disconnection notices, meet income limits, be disconnected or have less than a 10 day supply of bulk fuel. During the summer, they can help supply free air conditioners and fans. They have a special focus is on senior citizens and families with young children.

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POVERTY: The Challenge, The Solution

The U.S. is one of the richest countries in the world, yet 43.1 million Americans live in poverty and 19.4 million live in "deep" poverty, which often persists across generations. Family members may remain unemployed or "stuck" in low wage jobs, lacking education and skills needed in an increasingly competitive job market.

For information on the State of Poverty in Ohio, visit:
State of Poverty in Ohio 2020

For information on the impact of poverty visit:
The Impact of Poverty, Food Insecurity, and Poor Nutrition on Health and Well-Being

OIC provides quality education and training services. We offer high quality skill development opportunities that enable economically disadvantaged and unemployed people of all races and backgrounds to become productive, more fulfilled members of society.

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The U.S. is one of the richest countries in the world, yet 43.1 million Americans live in poverty and 19.4 million live in "deep" poverty, which often persists across generations. Family members may remain unemployed or "stuck" in low wage jobs, lacking education and skills needed in an increasingly competitive job market.

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Their Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8) provides vouchers to qualified applicants to use in the private market for landlords that accept the voucher. The Housing Authority pays a portion of the rent based on the applicant’s income.

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The SMHA owns and operates several different communities around the Springfield and Clark County area to provide a safe and inviting home to families who are on their way to self-sufficiency.

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Springfield Metropolitan Housing Authority | A New Foundation of Hope

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The SMHA owns and operates several different communities around the Springfield and Clark County area to provide a safe and inviting home to families who are on their way to self-sufficiency.

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Shelter for single women and families. Offers temporary shelter and short-term housing, along with immediate safety and shelter for those escaping violence.
Their Housing Security Program can help pay for security deposits, moving costs, and rent.
They can be reached at (937)325-8154, and a referral from United Way 211 is required.
501 West High Street
Springfield, OH 45506

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Collects, stores, and distributes food in Clark, Champaign, and Logan Counties. Provides dry, perishable, and refrigerated food thanks to their warehouse. They offer a drive-thru pantry, along with an Emergency Food Box Delivery Program for community members who are disabled, elderly, or lack transportation.

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Food Bank | Second Harvest Food Bank | United States

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We are dedicated to meet the hunger needs of Champaign, Clark and Champaign counties. The Second Harvest Food Bank collects, stores, and distributes food with one driving belief: that our communities thrive when hunger is minimized.

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Providing clothing, basic hygiene items, and groceries to individuals and families based on household size.

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What does the foodbank accept?

The foodbank accpets any canned food items. We ask that any and all food donated has not expired.

What types of clothes do we take?

The type of clothes that we accept is all mens and womens clothes. We also accept childrens clothes of any age.

What if I have home funiture?

We accept very little amounts of funiture. If you are unsure you are welcome to bring the items to one of the pantrys and the staff will make the decison.

What if I have something other than food and or clothes?

At Good Samaritan Outreach Center we accept all house items including but not limited to beding, pots/pans, hats.

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What does the foodbank accept? The foodbank accpets any canned food items. We ask that any and all food donated has not expired. What types of clothes do we take? The type of clothes that we accept is all mens and womens clothes. We also accept childrens clothes of any age.

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Legal Aid of Western Ohio (LAWO) Springfield

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Legal Aid of Western Ohio (LAWO) Springfield

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A pro-bono law firm that helps low-income and elderly residents of Clark County. Their goal is to help individuals achieve self-reliance, equal justice, and economic opportunity. They can assist with a variety of legal matters such as eviction, referrals, and debt issues.

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LAWO and ABLE serve 32 northwest and west central Ohio counties. ABLE and LAWO Migrant Farmworker Programs serve all 88 Ohio counties.
LAWO offices are located in Dayton, Defiance, Findlay, Lima, Sandusky, Springfield, and Toledo. ABLE offices are located in Dayton, Defiance, and Toledo. >> View Office Listings.

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LAWO and ABLE serve 32 northwest and west central Ohio counties. ABLE and LAWO Migrant Farmworker Programs serve all 88 Ohio counties. LAWO offices are located in Dayton, Defiance, Findlay, Lima, Sandusky, Springfield, and Toledo. ABLE offices are located in Dayton, Defiance, and Toledo. >> View Office Listings.

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Provides complete health and wellness services to take care of you, your family and everyone in our community. They offer medical, dental, behavioral health, patient advocacy and material assistance to help you be the best you can be.

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Encouraging, Supporting and Empowering People!

At Rocking Horse Community Health Center we provide complete health and wellness services to take care of you, your family and everyone in our community. We offer medical, dental, behavioral health, patient advocacy and material assistance to help you be the best you can be.

What our patients are saying

" Anyone's mouth can say "I care" but when you can feel it, when you can really feel that everyone you talk to cares about you that's when you can tell you are at the right place."
Stephen, RHCHC patient since 2018

We Are Rocking Horse Center

Whether you are in need of a pediatrician, an internal medicine physician, a family practice physician, a certified nurse practitioner, a general dentist, a doctor of chiropractic, a psychiatrist, a therapist, or a pharmacist, we have the best!

Rocking Horse Community Health Center is proud to employ highly qualified, expertly skilled and deeply compassionate providers.

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Rocking Horse Community Health Center | Complete Health & Wellness

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At Rocking Horse Community Health Center we provide complete health and wellness services to take care of you, your family and everyone in our community. We offer medical, dental, behavioral health, patient advocacy and material assistance to help you be the best you can be.

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Developmental Disabilities of Clark County

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Developmental Disabilities of Clark County

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Providing a variety of services for people of all ages.

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We empower people throughout their lifetime to achieve their fullest potential

WE’RE HIRING

Job and Living Skills Training
to help individuals become self-sufficient

Care for Children & Adults
too costly for families to afford

Care for People
who are severely disabled

The Only Agency
to provide funds for people who have DD

Long Term Care
when family can no longer provide support

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Developmental Disabilities of Clark County | Springfield Ohio

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We currently assist over 1,100 Clark County residents throughout their lives with funding, support, safeguards, and connections with partner agencies. Our mission is to empower people who have developmental disabilities to achieve their fullest potential.

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A mental health treatment and social services agency serving youth and families. Their full range of services include residential mental health treatment, foster care, outpatient counseling, in-home programs, and in-school programs.

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Serving Youth and Families Since 1903

Since its founding in 1903, Oesterlen's single objective has been to serve children and their loved ones. We are a mental health treatment and social services agency serving youth and families. Our full range of services includes residential mental health treatment, foster care, outpatient counseling, in-home programs, and in-school programs.

Executive Director Donald L. Warner Announces Forthcoming Retirement

Mission Statement

On behalf of the church, in witness to Christ, this agency's mission is to serve children and adults in need, to promote their mental, social, physical, and spiritual well-being. To carry out this mission, Oesterlen is dedicated to promoting healthy families and utilizing the highest possible standards within the professional fields of our service. The provision of services by this agency shall be consistent with its mission, and all persons shall have equal access to such services and to employment by the agency in accord with all applicable affirmative actions and equal opportunity policies.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Statement

At Oesterlen, we empower all individuals and families to improve their mental, social, physical and spiritual well-being by listening to their expressed needs and supporting their strengths. Oesterlen uses the values of diversity, equity and inclusion to create positive change within our organization and our community

Our Legacy and Heritage

Oesterlen began as an orphanage in 1903. Since the mid-1950s, we have been a mental health treatment center for emotionally, behaviorally, and psychologically troubled children and youth.

Today, we offer a full range of services, including residential and out client community services programs.

© 2022 Oesterlen Services for Youth, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Since its founding in 1903, Oesterlen's single objective has been to serve children and their loved ones. We are a mental health treatment and social services agency serving youth and families. Our full range of services includes residential mental health treatment, foster care, outpatient counseling, in-home programs, and in-school programs. Executive Director Donald L.

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Mental Health Services for Clark and Madison Counties - Addresses a host of mental and behavioral healthcare needs, such as depression, anxiety, grief, anger management, phobias, post-traumatic stress, bi-polar, schizophrenia, drug and alcohol abuse, and addictive behaviors.

(937) 399-9500

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Homepage - Mental Health Services for Clark & Madison Counties, Inc

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Mental Health Services delivers a comprehensive array of services to ensure the mental and behavioral health needs of Clark and Madison County residents are met across the generations. From youth and teens to adults and senior citizens, MHS touches lives at many different levels. Please click on the sections listed [...]Read More...

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Services offered: Abortion Referrals, Birth Control, HIV Services, Men's Health Care, Morning-After Pill (Emergency Contraception), Pregnancy Testing & Services, STD Testing, Treatment & Vaccines, Transgender Hormone Therapy, Women's Health Care

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Go to Content Go to Navigation Go to Navigation Go to Site Search Homepage

Care No Matter What

Planned Parenthood is one of the nation's leading providers of high-quality, affordable health care, and the nation's largest provider of sex education. With or without insurance, you can always come to us for your health care.

Language & Interpreters

English; Spanish; Additional translation services available upon request. Interpretation by telephone available for other languages.

Please let us know if you need an interpreter when scheduling your appointment.

Operated by: Planned Parenthood Southwest Ohio Region

Our expert care providers offer care in the following services. Learn more about what services are offered, what to expect, and pricing.

Please note that we'll be closed on these holidays: New Year's Day, Martin Luther King Day, Memorial Day, Juneteenth (observed June 18), Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, Day after Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve

Walk-in Information

If you need emergency contraception (AKA the morning after pill), you can walk in anytime we're open.

You are welcome to walk in any time the Health Center is open to make an appointment or see if there is a same day appointment available. If you have the time to wait, we will make every effort to fit you in the same day. If we can't see you, we will give you the first priority appointment available.

Walk-ins are welcome for most services, but are subject to availability.
Colposcopy, Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP), Intrauterine Contraception (IUC), Implanon and Gardasil will always require an appointment.

More About This Health Center

Note: This location is open on the 4th Saturday of each month.

In November and December Saturday hours will vary. We will be open Saturday, November 21st and Saturday, December 19th (the third Saturday of the month instead of the fourth).

Everyone deserves affordable health care. With or without insurance, you can always come to us for your health care.

I don't have insurance or Medicaid

If you're worried about cost, talk to us about how you can get health care that fits your budget.

If you do not have health insurance, read about health insurance options to find out how to get more affordable coverage and what to consider when choosing a plan.

I have insurance or Medicaid

We take the following insurance:

Aetna

Ambetter Buckeye

Anthem

Buckeye Community Health Plan

Caresource

Cigna

Golden Rule

Humana

Marketplace Caresource

Marketplace Molina

Medicaid

Medical Mutual

Molina

Paramount

Premier Health Plan

UHC Community Plan

United Healthcare

United Medical Resources

We accept many private and public insurance plans. If you don't see your insurance listed, please call us at 937-325-7349.

Medicaid Options

Medicaid accepted.

Services Coverage

Most health insurance plans now cover prescription birth control, annual wellness exams, and HIV and STD screenings with no copay, and many other services with some copay required. Contact your health insurance company directly to confirm that the services you need are covered and what, if any, out of pocket costs you are required to pay.

Additional Payment Information

Payment is expected at time of service unless other arrangements have previously been made. We accept:

Services at this clinic are offered at a reduced-cost flat rate. Please contact center for more information regarding pricing.

You can privately and easily book your appointment online for select services 24/7. For the full set of services, you can call 937-325-7349 to book your appointment. Health center staff can also answer any questions you may have.
Book Appointment

Additional patient resources are available online for this location to help you get the care you need when you need it.

Appointment Policies and Information

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment to check in and complete paperwork.

Please bring a picture ID with you to your visit.

Childcare Policies

Children under the age of 12 are not allowed in the waiting area unsupervised.

We're unable to provide childcare at our health center. For safety reasons children need to be accompanied by an adult when they're in the waiting room. Only infants can accompany you to the exam room. Please bring a friend or family member to be with your children if you don't have childcare at home.

Services Offered

You can fill your birth control prescriptions at our health center instead of the pharmacy. any time the health center is open. Please arrive at least 30 minutes before closing.

You can come to us for services that don't require a medical exam. For example, birth control education and supplies; emergency contraception (AKA the morning after pill); pregnancy testing and counseling; STD testing, and testing and treatments for urinary tract infections.

Planned Parenthood health centers are operated by regional Planned Parenthood affiliate organizations.

Learn more about our services.

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Birth Control & STD Testing - Springfield, OH

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Go to Content Go to Navigation Go to Navigation Go to Site Search Homepage Planned Parenthood is one of the nation's leading providers of high-quality, affordable health care, and the nation's largest provider of sex education. With or without insurance, you can always come to us for your health care.

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United Way of Clark, Champaign and Madison Counties 

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United Way of Clark, Champaign and Madison Counties 

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Provides a 24 hours per day, 7 days per week information and referral for services, including healthcare, counseling, food pantries and legal aid and other services. Phone: 2-1-1

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Find the help you need.

To search for resources serving residents of Lake County, Ohio, enter information about the person needing the service and choose a search below.*

*Location is optional, but provides better search results.

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To search for resources serving residents of Lake County, Ohio, enter information about the person needing the service and choose a search below.* *Location is optional, but provides better search results.

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Support and counseling services for marriage & family issues, gender identity issues, and sexual issues

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nginx

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New Directions Counseling | Marriage Counseling Springfield

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937-399-4260 - Get right counseling for your sexual addiction and marriage issues from the professional counselors at New Directions Counseling.

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CRSI is a not-for-profit provider of services offering OPTIONS and CHOICES for individuals, their families and guardians.

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Champaign Residential Services, Inc.’s (CRSI) Mission and Philosophy are to empower and support individuals with challenges to provide an opportunity to develop their maximum level of independence as they choose.

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Child & Family Health Collaborative of Ohio

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Child & Family Health Collaborative of Ohio

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Offers therapeutic relief and time-limited breaks to families and other caregivers of CareSource Members. Services may include: Emergency services, General supervision, Meal preparation, and Hands-on assistance with personal care.

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The Collaborative, in partnership with CareSource, has developed a statewide Respite Care Program that offers therapeutic relief and time-limited breaks to families and other caregivers of CareSource Members. Our network of respite care practitioners are available to assist CareSource Members with normal activities of daily life in order to meet the needs of the primary caregiver, as well as the child.  The Program goal is to improve child and family outcomes and reduce health care costs. The Program formally began on February 1, 2021.

​

What are Respite Services?

Respite provides short-term, temporary relief for families. It can be planned or emergency care. Services can be delivered in a child’s home, or in out-of-home locations, utilizing our network of respite care provider facilities and therapeutic family homes.
Services may include:

•    Emergency services
•    General supervision
•    Meal preparation
•    Hands-on assistance with personal care

Program Eligibility:

Respite care provides a short-term break for caregivers. This vital service helps caregivers stay healthy and ready to continue caring for their loved ones.

The Collaborative Respite Care Program is only available to individuals enrolled on a CareSource health plan and who meet the following criteria:

Under age 21 resident of the State of Ohio

Has a qualifying mental health diagnosis

Is not in a current foster care placement

If your child doesn’t meet our program criteria, but still would benefit from similar services, please consider contacting:

CareSource member services (per your CareSource ID card)

Your local County Family and Children First Council

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Respite Care | Child & Family Health Collaborative of Ohio

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The Collaborative, in partnership with CareSource, has developed a statewide Respite Care Program that offers therapeutic relief and time-limited breaks to families and other caregivers of CareSource Members.

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Provides tutoring, mentoring, and support for families

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There is an alarming number of grandparents and guardians who are raising children in their parents absence. Tragically, most instances are the result of the death of one or both parents, parental issues with alcohol or drug addiction, crime, mental illness, neglect, and/or abuse.

Unfortunately, acquiring guardianship can be a complicated process. The change is often an abrupt and traumatic experience for both the children and grandparents while dealing with the sudden loss of a vital family member. This issue is further exacerbated by financial restraints as most grandparents and guardians are on single/fixed incomes and very few resources are available to them. This is where Grandparents and Guardians, Inc. wants to make an impact in communities. With your help, we can provide economical, educational, and mental health support to these under-served households, enabling guardians to raise children in a healthy living environment and providing enriching opportunities that foster success.

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There is an alarming number of grandparents and guardians who are raising children in their parents absence. Tragically, most instances are the result of the death of one or both parents, parental issues with alcohol or drug addiction, crime, mental illness, neglect, and/or abuse. Unfortunately, acquiring guardianship can be a complicated process.

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Support Groups for Grandparents as Guardians 

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Support Groups for Grandparents as Guardians 

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Support Groups
Support Groups listed by county below
Kinship Caregiver Virtual Support Group
Weekly meetings Tuesdays 11:30am-12:30pm & Thursdays 6:30-7:30pm
Interested? Contact Angela at angela@kinshipcaregiversconnect.com or 203-466-9821
Welcome to our Ohio Support Groups page.
Please check back as we add more information to this page,
and note that information is listed by county.

All Counties:
Virtual Caregiver Support Group https://kinshipcaregiversconnect.weebly.com/
Grandparent's Rights Association of Ohio tamijo326@gmail.com
Grandparents Educating Minds GEMS University www.trans4mationnow.com
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) www.nami.org
for a searchable directory of resources providing support services to current foster or adoptive parents and kinship caregivers in Ohio.

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Support Groups listed by county below Kinship Caregiver Virtual Support Group Weekly meetings Tuesdays 11:30am-12:30pm & Thursdays 6:30-7:30pm Interested? Contact Angela at angela@kinshipcaregiversconnect.com or 203-466-9821 Welcome to our Ohio Support Groups page.Please check back as we add more information to this page,and note that information is listed by county.

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For families who have a child with a developmental disability but may be relevant for others who need to navigate the often confusing and intimidating world of probate court and guardianship.

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Publication summary: This booklet was written for families who have a child with a developmental disability but may be relevant for others who need to navigate the often confusing and intimidating world of probate court and guardianship. It was written by Logan K. Philipps, Esq. & William K. Root, Esq. and published by the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council. (Published 2018)
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About the Ohio DD Council

The Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council (ODDC) is a planning and advocacy group of over 30 members appointed by the Governor. The ODDC receives and disseminates federal funds in the form of grant projects in order to create new ideas, pilot new approaches, empower individuals and families, and advocate for systems change to more fully include people with disabilities in their communities.

Foreword

It is our pleasure to offer this book to the community. Building on a prior version written by David Zwyer, this book offers a comprehensive overview of guardianship and alternatives in Ohio in a question and answer format. The information is written for families who have a child with a developmental disability but may be relevant for others who need to navigate the often confusing and intimidating world of probate court and guardianship. We hope this book will help families and individuals understand the strategies available to plan for an individual with a disability, lessen the fear of guardianship, and provide guidance so that all individuals in Ohio live as happily, productively, and independently as possible.

This book is not legal advice but instead offers general information that may or may not be applicable to any one situation. Over the years, we have provided information to parents, friends, relatives, and individuals about guardianships for adults who have developmental disabilities. Readers should consult their own attorneys to plan for their own unique situations.

When a person turns 18, in the eyes of the law, he or she is now considered an adult and legally responsible to make decisions for him or herself. If a person is not capable of making decisions or caring for him or herself independently, a decision-making framework is necessary to support the individual to live as happily, safely, and independently as possible.

Like each individual, each situation is unique. When families come into our office, they often think they need a guardianship because they have been told that by someone else, but a guardianship may not be necessary or recommended as the right strategy to promote the health, safety, and independence of an individual with special needs. When a family comes to us, we discuss the alternatives to a guardianship to ensure that the least restrictive yet effective strategy can be used. Because of this common misconception that a guardianship is the only strategy, this book will first discuss less restrictive strategies.

This book contains many of the questions we have been asked over the years and the answers we give.

Best,
Logan Philipps and William (Bill) Root

Table of Contents

Glossary

Guardian(s) - an adult person(s) appointed by a probate court to act on behalf of an adult with a disability

Ward - an adult with a disability for whom the guardianship is established

Probate Court - the county court that determines if a guardianship is necessary and oversees the person appointed to be guardian

Letter of Guardianship - the legal document signed by the probate court judge that provides the authority of the guardian to act on behalf of the ward

Incompetent - any person who is so mentally impaired - as a result of a mental or physical illness or disability, as a result of intellectual disability, or as a result of chronic substance abuse - that the person is incapable of taking proper care of the person's self or property, or fails to provide for the person's family or other persons for whom the person is charged by law to provide

Conservatorship - a legal arrangement in which a competent adult with physical disabilities voluntarily relinquishes rights to another individual

Agent - a person who acts on behalf of another person

Power of Attorney - the authority to act for another person in specified or all legal or financial matters
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What is a guardianship and are there alternatives?

A brief description of a guardianship is necessary in order to discuss the alternatives.

A guardianship is a court-ordered relationship in which one adult is authorized to make decisions for and act on behalf of another adult person. A guardianship is often established so that a parent or parents is/are authorized to make decisions for and act on behalf of an adult child. Either, or both parents can be appointed as guardians. A parental relationship is not a prerequisite for a guardianship; another responsible adult can serve as guardian. It is important to remember that in a guardianship, the ward loses rights and the ability to act for him or herself. The type and scope of the guardianship determines what rights and abilities the ward loses.
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How do I know if a guardianship should be established?

A guardianship is only established for individuals over the age of 18. Up until the 18th birthday, parents are already the guardians of their children. The process can begin before the 18th birthday, usually at 17 years and six months at the earliest.

To establish a guardianship of an adult, the person must be considered incompetent. This is a legal determination and is defined in the glossary. A person is considered incompetent if they are incapable of taking proper care of themselves or their property.

A guardianship cannot be established without an expert evaluation, completed by a medical professional, stating that the proposed ward is, "incompetent." These evaluation forms are available on the Supreme Court of Ohio Website and most county probate court websites.
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Are there alternatives to guardianship?

Yes, a guardianship is not always necessary (or recommended) for an adult with a disability. In fact, part of the investigation performed by court personnel is a determination if a less restrictive alternative exists. Under each of these alternatives, the individual with a disability does not lose any rights, instead he or she grants someone else the authority to act for him or her. He or she keeps their rights but in essence says, "I want someone else to do things for me."
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Decision Making in the DD System

In 2012, decision making for the services and programs offered through county boards of developmental disabilities and the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD) was changed to embrace individual autonomy and independence.

There is a presumption of competency, which means that if a guardianship has not been established, the individual, "shall be permitted to make the decision." The individual may seek and obtain advice, support, and guidance from an adult family member or another person without giving up the right to make the decision him or herself.

Chosen Representative - A person receiving services in the DD system can now authorize an adult to make decisions for him about DD programs and services if he or she does not have a guardian and is not comfortable making those decisions him or herself.
Choosing a Substitute Decision Maker
An individual may also choose someone else to make a decision on his or her behalf. This decision maker applies only with DD services and not any services or programs provided by agencies outside the DD System. A power of attorney would be necessary in this instance.

This authorization must be in writing. Although DODD has developed a form for such authorizations - which has the advantage of being easily recognized - the law does not limit a written authorization to this form. If the individual expresses an intent to revoke the authorization, it should be revoked.

A chosen representative appointed pursuant to this written authorization must be an adult. He or she cannot have any financial interest in the decision relating to the service or program. For example, a provider cannot serve as an authorized representative and sign the person up to receive services from the agency for which he works. Also, chosen representatives may not admit the person they represent into a developmental center. It is expected that in many cases, the chosen representative will be a parent or other family member, even if they also provide services or natural supports.

Financial Power of Attorney - A common concern for those who seek assistance for a guardianship is that the proposed ward will be taken advantage of, and therefore make poor financial decisions, such as opening credit accounts or running up large bills. There may be a less restrictive alternative to a guardianship for this purpose. A Financial Power of Attorney may be signed by the adult to grant another adult (an agent) the authority to manage his or her financial affairs. In this way, the individual with a disability maintains rights necessary to foster independence. He or she, with the agent, can work out a plan that protects the individual without sacrificing rights. For example, if the adult signs a contract or buys a car, the power of attorney has the ability to exercise the termination clause in the contract. With a power of attorney, the agent can monitor bank accounts or debit card transactions and close accounts, if necessary.

Any power of attorney can be made "durable". A "durable" power of attorney is one that states that if the signer later becomes incapacitated, the agent retains the rights granted in the document.

How this might look:

Parents would like their child to gain the ability to manage finances. If they become a guardian for their child, the child will never have the chance to manage his or her own property or bank accounts. However, if the child signed a power of attorney for his or her parents, the parents could monitor the child's spending. Taking it a step further, suppose the child is working and the parents would like to provide her with the opportunity to have her own bank account, but are concerned that the child may misuse the funds or spend them on her "new friend." Many families state this a huge concern as their child has, "never met a stranger." The parents might consider having the child's wages deposited into a savings account that is inaccessible except by going into the bank to withdraw. The parents could then establish a separate checking account with a debit card linked to it. The parents could take money from the savings account and deposit it into the checking account for the child to use. The amount of the deposit would depend on the child's ability to manage the proceeds. The idea being that if the parents deposit $25 into the checking account for the child to use for lunch for the week and the child then spends the $25 in one day buying lunch for her friends, then the parents can counsel the child and the child is out only $25. This sort of arrangement allows for the child to demonstrate the ability to manage funds, with the goal being to independently manage increasing amounts.
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Are there potential drawbacks with a Durable Financial Power of Attorney?

A power of attorney is a legal document that gives someone else, an agent, the authority to act on an individual's behalf. A person must be competent when he or she gives someone else the authority.

Because the person with the disability who signs the power of attorney retains the right to speak and act for him or herself and can overrule the agent, diligence by the agent is very important to ensure that the person is not exploited. Nonetheless, for a person who has been taken advantage of in the past, the power of attorney may be insufficient.

In addition, because only a competent person may sign a power of attorney, a legal challenge as to the competency of the person at the time of signing could be raised by an individual or organization who does not wish to allow the agent to act.

Representative Payeeship - If the only significant income an individual receives is his or her monthly Social Security benefit, it may not be necessary for a person to have a Guardian of the Estate or a Plenary Guardian. A representative payee, which can be an individual or a company, can be established through the Social Security Administration for monthly payments to be made to the representative payee for the benefit of the individual with a disability. The representative payee can then pay bills and distribute money for the benefit of the individual. In this way, the representative payee may be able to handle all relevant financial matters. A Guardian of the Person or a Limited Guardian could handle all other matters.

A representative payeeship, authorized representative or designated advocate may also be available for other state and federal benefit or entitlement programs. Each agency may have its own forms or requirements that may need to be completed.

Direct Deposits and Automatic Bill Pay - Having funds from employment or Social Security directly deposited into a bank account keeps the actual cash from going directly to the person. Automatic payments can be set up to take care of regular expenses such as utilities. In addition, if the account is a joint account with a trusted person where two signatures are required for withdrawals, that person can manage the funds. It is important that only those assets belonging to the individual with disabilities be placed in this account because Medicaid, Social Security, and other means tested benefits will consider all the funds in the account to be owned by the person with disabilities and will count them as a resource.

Direct Payments to Provider of Service - To assist an individual who may have trouble managing his or her own funds, payments could be made by a representative payee, trustee, or attorney directly to the person or entity providing a service.
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Are there alternatives to guardianships for non-financial matters?

General Powers of Attorney - A General Power of Attorney is used to authorize an agent to act on behalf of the person signing the power of attorney to care for his or her non-financial affairs. Non-financial affairs include taking care of pets, making living arrangements, talking with a provider, attending Individualized Education Program (IEP) meetings, etc.

Most individuals do not seek a General Power of Attorney alone. Our clients primarily seek us to prepare a Financial Power of Attorney first and the non-financial matters are usually incidental to the financial powers. As an illustration, the Ohio Revised Code includes a form "Statutory Power of Attorney" because a Financial Power of Attorney is so frequently needed. This form of power of attorney is only considered a Financial Power of Attorney unless it is expanded by including nonfinancial matters in the "Special Instructions" section. This form can be found online at <a href="http://www.akronbar.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/3- NLTBasicProbateEstatePlanning.pdf">http://www.akronbar.org/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/3- NLTBasicProbateEstatePlanning.pdf.

Despite what is written above, a General Power of Attorney can be established without a Financial Power of Attorney.

Health Care Power of Attorney - A Health Care Power of Attorney allows a person to state who he or she wants to make health care decisions for him or her if he or she cannot make those decisions him or herself. Importantly, a person can also nominate the person he or she would want to serve as his or her guardian should one become necessary. All guardians must be approved by a probate court, but a person's nomination is given preference if the nominated person is competent, suitable, and willing to accept the appointment. A Health Care Power of Attorney can be found online at https://my.clevelandclinic.org/ccf/media/Files/Patients/health-care-power-of-attorney-form.pdf?la=en.

Education Power of Attorney - An Education Power of Attorney allows a person to be a voice and act for a person in the educational arena. The person appointed can, among other things, fill out forms, speak at IEP meetings, and stand in a real or "virtual" line to register for classes.

Protective Services - A court may order a county board of developmental disabilities to provide protective services for a short time to an adult with developmental disabilities who is being abused or neglected if that adult lacks the capacity to make decisions to protect him or herself. This is described in Sections 5126.30 to 5126.34 of the Ohio Revised Code (ORC). If the individual who needs assistance is over the age of 60, then the individual might also be eligible for other services available to the elderly through Adult Protective Services.

Protection Orders - A person may also ask a court to order someone who is hurting or threatening to hurt him or her to stay away and not have any contact. It would be overly restrictive to take away an individual's rights through a guardianship in order to keep the individual safe when it might be possible to accomplish the same with a court order of protection.

Supported Decision Making - Supported Decision Making is a process by which a person with a disability employs the relationships he or she has with other people or agencies (i.e. family, friends, staff, volunteers and advocates) to assist him or her in making decisions and communicating decisions. This group of people can help ensure that the individual has a support system that meets all of his or her needs and advocates on the individual's behalf.

Release of Information - A person may sign a form that allows personal information to be given to a third party. Such releases are often used by providers to accommodate the requests from family members or caregivers for information. A HIPAA Waiver is essentially a release of information form.

A person with a disability can include other individuals in meetings with health care professionals and can grant access to protected health information. They can also communicate their intent to have another individual assist them with medical appointments. In this way, the individual with a disability maintains rights necessary to foster independence. A HIPAA release can be signed to allow another person to access medical information.

How this might look:

A newly turned 18-year-old invites his mother into his appointment with his doctor. Instead of speaking for the child, the mother sits down in the corner and allows the child to explain his symptoms to the doctor. The mother can then fill in the gaps for the doctor. Taking this a step further, the mother can prepare the child before the appointment and the child can then go into the examining room by himself to communicate with the doctor. The doctor can then come out to the waiting area and visit with the mother, independent from the child. The doctor then can go back into the examining room and visit with the child with the information the mother has provided. The idea being the child can grow into a more proactive advocate for his health care, but his mother or father are there to be sure the proper information is communicated.

Conservatorship - If an individual is mentally competent but has a physical disability, the person can:

Ask the probate court to appoint a conservator of either person or estate, or both;

Select the conservator;

Discharge the conservator if he or she is unhappy with the person or if his or her physical disability decreases; and

Specify to the court just what authority he or she wants the conservator to have.

A conservatorship looks and feels like a guardianship; but most importantly, it does not involve any finding of incompetence. See definition in glossary.
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Guardianship

In addition to the information included here, readers are encouraged to review the Ohio Attorney General's "Ohio Guardianship Guide," available on the web.
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What rights does a guardian have and what rights does a ward have?

It is important to remember that when a guardianship is established, certain rights are taken away from the ward. When thinking about rights, it is important to recall that if a guardian has authority over an aspect of the ward's life, the ward does not. Depending on the type of guardianship established, different rights will be taken away.

It is also important to recognize that some rights are personal to the individual and cannot be exercised by a guardian. A guardian cannot make a will. In addition, voting is a fundamental right. Unless a court specifically rules that a person is incompetent for purposes of voting, an individual retains the right to vote - even if the individual has a plenary guardian.

Other areas of the individual's life may touch upon fundamental rights or a right of privacy. There may be certain medical procedures to which a probate court will not allow a guardian to give consent, such as abortion or sterilization. However, courts may prevent or nullify the marriage of a ward, especially if the marriage takes place without the guardian's consent.
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What types of guardianship can be established?
Limited Guardianship
Limited Guardianship is a relationship where the guardian has control only over a portion of the ward's life. Only certain, specific rights are removed.

Thus, you might have a Limited Guardian for medical purposes only (that is, to provide consent for medical procedures), for placement purposes only, or for the limited purpose of approving behavior plans and/or psychotropic medications. Because this is the least restrictive form of guardianship, it should be used whenever possible when some form of guardianship is necessary. A Limited Guardianship may also be limited to a time-frame (e.g., one year) instead of for a purpose.
Guardianship of the Person
Guardianship of the Person is a relationship where the guardian controls and protects the personal needs of the ward. Guardianship of the Person gives the guardian the authority to make all day-to-day decisions of a more personal nature (that is, all decisions except financial decisions) on behalf of the ward. Such decisions would include arrangements for food, clothing, residence, medical care, recreation, education, and other concerns. It also includes medical consents, consents to Individual Service Plans (ISPs), Individual Habilitation Plans, consents to participate in Special Olympics, to have a photo of the individual used, and so on.
Guardianship of the Estate
Guardianship of the Estate is a relationship where the guardian controls and protects the assets of the ward. Guardianship of the Estate gives the guardian the authority to make all financial decisions for the ward. This includes the ability to enter into contracts on behalf of the ward.
Plenary Guardianship
Plenary Guardianship is a combination of the authority of both the Guardianship of the Person and Guardianship of the Estate. Plenary Guardianship gives the guardian the authority to make nearly all decisions for the individual, and combines the authority of Guardianship of the Person and Guardianship of the Estate. It also sweeps away more personal rights than any other form of guardianship.
Emergency Guardianship
Emergency Guardianship allows a court to intervene to appoint someone for a short and definite period of time. The Emergency Guardianship lasts for only 72 hours. Emergency Guardianship can be extended by the probate court for an additional 30 days after a hearing.
Interim Guardianship
Interim Guardianship allows a court to appoint someone on a temporary or interim basis because the former guardian is no longer available. An Interim Guardian can be initially appointed for a period of 15 days, and for good cause the Interim Guardianship may be extended another 30 days.
Guardian ad litem
Guardian ad litem is a different type of guardianship in which a guardian is appointed for the very specific purpose of representing a minor or someone who is allegedly incompetent during the course of a particular type of litigation. A Guardian ad litem's authority ends when the litigation ends.
Co-Guardianship
Co-Guardianship occurs when two people are appointed to act as guardian for someone at the same time. In other words, two people share the guardianship responsibilities. Co-Guardianship is often not a good idea in a divorce situation and many courts will not consider it. A court will also not appoint co-guardians in a situation in which there is animosity between the potential co-guardians. Depending on the county court and judge, Co-Guardianship may also require both guardians to sign every form, creating additional logistical problems in completing paperwork on time. Co-Guardianship is not recognized in every county. The probate court of the county of residence for the ward should be contacted to make a determination if Co-Guardianship is available.
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Is a guardian responsible if a ward commits a crime or injures another person or property?

A guardian is not liable for the actions of a ward who commits a crime or otherwise injures someone or another's property.
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What kind of liability does a guardian have?

Potential guardians do not have to worry about exposing their personal assets when they consider whether to become guardians.

Ohio law provides that a guardian is not personally liable under any contract signed by the guardian on behalf of the ward, unless the contract itself states that the guardian is liable, or the guardian is acting negligently or outside the scope of authority as guardian. Negligence is a legal term. A person is negligent with respect to circumstances when, because of a substantial lapse from due care, the person fails to perceive or avoid a risk that such circumstances may exist.

It is imperative that a guardian make it known that he or she is acting in the official capacity as guardian. The words "guardian" or "as guardian" should be used following the name or signature of the guardian.

A guardian (any type) is not personally liable for any debt of the ward, unless the guardian or conservator agrees to be personally responsible for the debt, or the guardian is liable for that debt because of another legal relationship (i.e. medical care for a spouse, the negligence of the guardian caused the debt, or the guardian acted beyond their authority and caused the debt).
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Must a guardian live in Ohio?

It is desirable for the guardian to live near the ward, preferably in the same county and same state. It is difficult for a guardian to carry out duties if he or she does not have frequent face-to-face contact with his or her ward. However, a probate court is able to appoint an out-of-state person to serve as guardian of the estate if a parent nominated the out-of-state person in any document signed by two witnesses or notarized.
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After parents die, who will serve as guardian for the ward?

A parent may nominate a person to serve as guardian for their incompetent adult child. Typically, this is done in a Last Will and Testament but can also be done in a separate document and will be effective if the parent signs the document before two witnesses who also sign the document as witnesses, or if the document is notarized.

Ohio law respects the right of parents to choose guardians for their children who are unable to take care of themselves, no matter where the guardian lives. Therefore, parents may nominate an out-of-state resident to serve as guardian. However, because Ohio Medicaid Waivers do not transfer from Ohio to another state, if the intention of a parent or parents is for their child to live with the guardian, an in-state guardian may want to be given strong consideration.

It is important to remember that a nomination is not an automatic assignment. Parents may "nominate" a guardian, but the nominated guardian will still need to apply to the probate court. However, if the requirements of the law are followed, the person nominated by the parents will have a preference in appointment.
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How is a guardianship established?

A proposed guardian must file an application in the probate court of the county where the proposed ward lives. After the application is filed, a probate court investigator, typically called a Court Investigator, will contact the proposed guardian or the contact person listed on the application and arrange to visit the proposed ward and make an independent assessment regarding the need for the guardianship and the proposed guardian's ability to serve.

During the meeting with the proposed ward, the Court Investigator will inform the proposed ward that he or she has the following rights:

The right to object to the guardianship;

The right to have an attorney represent him or her, even if he or she cannot afford one;

The right to be present during the hearing;

The right to receive notice of the hearing;

The right to request a record of the hearing;

The right to have a friend or family member of his or her choice present;

The right to prevent his or her personal physician and certain other parties from testifying against him or her; and

The right to have an independent evaluation.

The probate court will schedule a hearing to be held. At that hearing, a probate judge or magistrate will determine whether a guardianship is necessary and the suitability of the proposed guardian to serve.

The proposed guardian must attend the hearing and will be asked questions by the magistrate regarding the relationship, the need, and the willingness to serve as guardian. The proposed guardian will take an oath, promising to care for the ward.

The proposed ward is not required to attend the hearing but has a right to. At the hearing, the proposed ward may have an attorney at no cost. The proposed ward or his or her attorney may communicate to the court if he or she agrees with the guardianship and the proposed guardian at the hearing. The proposed ward may offer evidence to demonstrate why the guardianship is unnecessary or the proposed guardian is not a good choice.
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Is an attorney necessary to file for guardianship?

Whether you need an attorney to assist you depends upon the rules of the probate court for the county where the proposed ward lives, and the type of guardianship for which you are applying. Before applying, theperson applying for guardianship should call the clerk of the probate court to ask whether an attorney is required.

In some counties, it will be necessary to hire an attorney to file the guardianship application in probate court. This is especially true when the application is for a Guardianship of the Estate where a bond will also have to be posted.

If an attorney is not required, you may apply to serve as a guardian. The process is form driven and many probate courts have packets of the required forms. As a practical matter, if your county does not offer a packet, a person seeking guardianship can use the forms available on the Franklin County Probate Court's website as a guide, being mindful that local courts may have their own forms.
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What are the duties of a guardian?

Being a guardian can be a lot of work. Both the Ohio Revised Code and local rules govern the duties of a guardian. Some of those duties include the following:
Authority:
The guardian of a ward is under the jurisdiction and authority of the probate court. This means the magistrates and judges of the court supervise the guardians. The court is called the Superior Guardian. Therefore, guardians must follow all orders of the probate court, which is their Superior Guardian and the source of their authority. They can be removed if they do not.
Education:
Ohio law requires that all guardians attend mandatory training. There is a one-time fundamentals course lasting six hours and continuing education requirements (3 hours) for each following year. To help meet this requirement, the Supreme Court of Ohio offers free courses to guardians of adults. These courses are offered in many communities throughout Ohio and online via the Internet.
Reporting:
At a minimum, guardians must file either annual or biannual reports with the probate court to enable the court to monitor the condition of the ward and to determine whether there is a need for the guardianship to continue.

The law requires a guardian to file a report with the probate court at least every two years, but some courts require the guardian's report annually. Not only will guardians be required to state whether there is need for the guardianship to continue, but they also must submit another Statement of Expert Evaluation signed by either a physician, a licensed social worker, a licensed clinical psychologist, or the person's developmental disabilities team. In some counties, the Statement of Expert Evaluation may be waived after the first report has been filed, if the ward's condition and the need for guardianship is not expected to change. This waiver of annual reporting is granted by the local court at the request of the guardian. The request must be accompanied by a signed statement from the expert stating that the ward's condition is not likely to improve.

A guardian must notify the court of any abuse, neglect, or exploitation of the ward.

A guardian must notify the court of a change of residence and should notify the court before the change occurs. A ward's change of residence to a more restrictive setting in or outside of the county of the guardian's appointment must be approved by the court, unless a delay in authorizing the change of residence would affect the health and safety of the ward.

Guardians of the Estate are required to get permission from the probate court before making expenditures from the ward's estate, unless such authority is specifically granted in their letter of guardianship or other order of the court. Guardians of the Estate must report annually as to how they spent the funds of the ward on his or her behalf during the prior year. Guardians are required to keep an accounting and submit receipts for all such expenditures. Guardianship of the Estate may be cumbersome. Unless it is absolutely necessary, consider the use of an alternative.
Seeking Guidance:
When in doubt as to what to do on behalf of the ward, guardians may seek direction from the probate court. It may be necessary for the guardian to submit a motion to the court for direction, and to request a hearing, in order to get such direction. At a minimum, the court will expect a Guardian of the Person to keep the ward safe, nourished and healthy, and a Guardian of the Estate to protect the ward's assets.
Care and Advocacy:
Guardians are expected to follow the recommendations of physicians concerning the health of their wards. Guardians may have to seek to put behavior support plans in place for their wards, work collaboratively with service providers to solve issues related to behavior support plans, or if issues cannot be resolved advocate for their ward in Court. Sometimes acting in the best interest of their wards means that guardians will have to speak up and advocate for them.

Guardians cannot delegate their authority through a power of attorney or otherwise. However, a guardian who is going to be absent for a time, might show their Letter of Guardianship to the family physician and let the physician know in whose care the ward will be during their absence. The guardian might also complete a form that gives the temporary custodial party permission to seek medical attention for their ward in their absence. A guardian is expected to use his or her judgment and seek advice from the probate court if needed in determining what is in the best interest of the ward.
Maximize Person-Centered Planning:
Ohio law makes clear that all individuals with developmental disabilities, including those with guardians, have the right to participate in decisions that affect their lives and to have their needs, desires, and preferences considered. Guardians must prepare and file an annual plan that lists personal and financial goals for the person under guardianship. The annual plan is in addition to the guardianship report. This requirement became effective in June 2015, and is a reflection of the extraordinary act that guardianship is (taking away rights) and reminds all persons that a ward is a human being with goals and rights, and that a guardian must serve as an advocate to help the ward live as independently as possible.
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What happens if the guardian is not appropriate or doing an appropriate job?

If someone believes that a guardian is not doing a good job, he or she should bring the matter to the attention of the probate court. The court may set the matter for hearing, or it might ask its investigator to review the ward's situation and the involvement of the guardian.

Likewise, if the ward wants a new guardian, the ward should bring that to the attention of the probate court. The court may hold a hearing on the matter. In an ideal situation, the current guardian would resign and a new person approved by the ward would apply to become the successor.

Short of the ward suffering loss of assets, injury or ill health as a result of neglect by the guardian, probate courts are unlikely to remove a guardian who wants to continue to serve, especially a family member. Even motions by divorced spouses to take over guardianship of their child are unlikely to succeed without a very clear and persuasive reason to make a change.
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Can a guardianship be terminated once it is established?

Sometimes it becomes apparent that a guardianship should not have been created in the first place, that a guardianship is no longer necessary, or the level of restrictiveness is no longer appropriate. Only the court can terminate a guardianship. This process is started by submitting a motion to the probate court.

A ward may submit a motion to the court 120 days after the guardianship becomes effective, asking that the guardianship be ended. The ward may renew his or her request once a year after that. See O.R.C. Section 2111.49 (C). If the ward alleges his or her competence, the burden of proving his or her incompetence by clear and convincing evidence is on the guardian.

A court will require evidence as to why the underlying condition that justified the guardianship in the first place has abated and that the guardianship is no longer necessary.

A marriage of the ward terminates guardianship of the person but not the estate. There is a presumption that the spouse will now oversee the personal care of the incompetent spouse. However, if the competent spouse does not have legal authority via a guardianship or power of attorney, that spouse will not be able to legally make decisions for the spouse who needs care.

If two individuals who are under a guardianship get married, both will no longer have guardians of their person. Therefore, if two individuals under guardianships wish to be married, their guardians should be prepared to file a new application after the marriage if they wish to reestablish the guardianships.
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Can a parent be guardian and a paid provider of services?

Yes, if the probate court will allow it. Ohio rules generally prohibit a court from issuing letters of guardianship to a paid provider. However, the probate court may exempt relatives from this prohibition. The probate court must approve of a guardian becoming a paid provider.
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Final Thoughts

It is our sincere hope that this book has provided you with some answers to questions that you have. Because every individual is unique, each situation regarding guardianship is unique. If you have additional questions, you should ask other parents, the Ohio DD Council, other trusted advisors, or an attorney with a focus on Special Needs Planning for additional information.
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About the Authors
Logan K. Philipps, Principal
Resch, Root & Philipps, LLC
Logan has been an attorney since 2006. As an estate planning attorney, Logan helps people plan for bright tomorrows for themselves and their loved ones.

An area of concentration for Logan's practice is planning for families with children with special needs. Before becoming a lawyer, Logan taught elementary school in Cincinnati, Ohio. He utilizes his teaching background to educate individuals, parents, grandparents and loved ones about the strategies available to protect family members. His experience with special needs started as a teenager when his father remarried, and he gained a stepbrother who has special needs.

Logan lives in Grandview Heights with his wife and three boys.
William (Bill) K. Root, Principal Resch, Root & Philipps, LLC
Bill has been an attorney since 1980. Bill has limited his practice to estate and business planning, which allows him the opportunity to work with individuals and business owners to help them plan their personal estates, and for the successful transition of their business interests.

Bill's special needs planning practice started in 1985 with the birth of his second child, Erin. He and his wife attended more IEPs, school meetings, seminars, doctor's appointments and consults that he can begin to count. They participate in a number of special needs organizations. They also established the Erin Root Fund for Children at the Columbus Foundation and have directed their charitable giving to organizations created to serve children with special needs.

Bill lives in Dublin with his wife, Tina.
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Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council is committed to self-determination and community inclusion for people with developmental disabilities. The Council is made up of over 30 governor-appointed members who decide on grants to offer to create change that improves independence, productivity and inclusion for people with developmental disabilities and their families in community life in Ohio.

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Resources for Grandparents Raising Grandparents

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Resources for Grandparents Raising Grandparents

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Resources on navigating the welfare system, establishing legal guardianship and moving past trauma. NCRC created this database of resources for grandfamilies to help provide support and assistance for older adults caring for children.

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Over 2.6 million children in the United States are being raised by grandparents, other relatives or close family friends.[1] While it can be extremely rewarding for an older adult to take on the responsibility of raising a child, there are also many challenges that arise. There is a wide variety of reasons kinship families form. However, regardless of how they come together, many of them face similar difficulties such as navigating the welfare system, establishing legal guardianship and moving past trauma. NCRC created this database of resources for grandfamilies to help provide support and assistance for older adults caring for children.
GENERAL
AARP Guide for Grandfamilies: AARP's Guide for Grandfamilies helps older adults who are going to be raising children for the second time to give them an outline of how to start thinking about this responsibility. It includes resources for housing, legal issues, finances, health, education and much more.

AARP Resource Center for General Caregiving: The AARP resource center provides a variety of services, information and insights for caregivers in general. This is not specific to grandfamilies, but there are still valuable resources for grandparents raising grandchildren on this website.

DHHS Information and Resources on Guardianship: This resource by the US Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) provides legal definitions and responsibilities that come along with guardianship. It also provides toolkits and publications on kinship families and grandfamilies.

General tips on grandparents raising grandchildren: This article by Help Guide offers an overview with some helpful tips and notable challenges that older adults face when taking on the responsibility of raising a child. This article is a good place to start for older adults to get a sense of the priorities.

National Committee of Grandparents for Children's Rights Inc.: "The National Committee of Grandparents for Children's Rights is a nationwide network of grandparents, community members and professionals working together to provide education and support, advocacy and thought leadership for children, grandparents and kinship families. Our vision is all children having healthy and stable relationships with their grandparents and other relatives."

Online Support Group/Chatroom: While raising children as an older adult can be very rewarding, it can also be stressful at times. It can be helpful to be able to speak to people in a similar situation to get advice and support. This website is a chatroom for older adults raising children to share experiences, ideas, tips and resources with one another.

Resources and Fact Sheets by State: This Generation's United Resource offers easily searchable fact sheets and state-based materials for each state.
FINANCIAL RESOURCES
AARP Financial Planning for Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: This is AARP's financial planning resource for older adults raising children. It includes information about benefits, fact sheets and general questions to consider.

AARP Public Benefits Guide: AARP's Public Benefit Guide is a searchable database of state-led financial assistance programs.

Adoption Credit and Adoption Assistance Programs: If in the position to adopt the child you are caring for, you are eligible for tax benefits that include a tax credit for expenses paid to adopt and an exclusion from income for employer-provided adoption assistance.

A Grandfamily Guide to TANF: This Generations United fact sheet focuses on Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and how older adults can access this benefit to support their family.

American Opportunity Tax Credit: The American Opportunity Tax Credit offers a credit for expenses paid by students for higher education.

Database to Find Financial Assistance Programs: The National Council on Aging created BenefitsCheckUp to help older Americans find different assistance programs for which they are eligible.

Guardianship Assistance Programs: Guardian Assistance Programs are a block grant provided to each state to offer payments for relatives who have assumed legal guardianship of eligible children for whom they previously cared for as foster parents. Each state administers its own program, so you will have to search for their individual states' program. Here is information on the formal grant for the state program more broadly.

Housing Developments for Grandfamilies: Generations United created a list of different housing developments specifically for grandfamilies across the country. It includes information about the number of units, the location, whether the project is completed, services offered, the population makeup and the bedroom size.

Lifetime Learning Tax Credit: Students seeking an undergraduate, graduate and professional degree may be eligible for a lifetime learning credit. This credit applied to qualified tuition and education related expenses paid for eligible students enrolled in an eligible educational institution. There is no limit on the number of years you can claim the credit. It is worth up to $2,000 per tax return.

National Foundation for Credit Counseling: The National Foundation for Credit Counseling is the nation's largest and longest-serving nonprofit financial counseling organization. They offer free and affordable financial counseling in a variety of areas. You can access their services in person, online or over the phone.

State TANF Definitions of Relative: This resource provides the legal definitions of "relative" for each state based on their TANF eligibility requirements.

Supplemental Security Income (SSI): SSI provides cash benefits to eligible adults and children with disabilities that seriously limit their activities. This program provides financial assistance to meet basic needs for food, clothing and shelter.

Tax Benefits for Grandfamilies: The Tax Institute provides this resource that helps older adults raising children find tax benefits that are available to them. There is a helpful chart at the bottom of the document that shows the eligibility requirements for each benefit.

Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF): TANF offers financial assistance for low-income families. The program is established through block grants for each state, so services vary based on each state. By clicking "Help for Families," you can search for services by state
HEALTH
Children's Health Insurance Program: InsureKidsNow.gov helps older adults find government assistance for healthcare coverage for children they are raising. This resource is easily searchable by state.

Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP): CHIP Medicaid, along with other programs, provides health care coverage for children who qualify. This website offers information on who is eligible and how to apply, as well as offering suggestions for similar health care coverage programs to explore.

Generations United Resources for Grandfamilies and Substance Abuse: This Generation United resource is specifically for grandfamilies who are impacted by substance abuse. Kinship caregivers have identified five topics identified that are uniquely challenging for grandfamilies affected by substance use and addressed them here. Generation United covers information and resources for grandfamilies impacted by substance abuse in this guide.

Grandfamilies.org Guide to Raising Children with Disabilities: This valuable resource by Grandfamilies.org is a guide specifically for older adults who are raising children with disabilities. It provides detailed information about the different things to consider and the variety of programs available.

Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP): SNAP provides critical nutrition assistance to eligible, low-income individuals and families.
LEGAL SERVICES
Legal Services: The American Bar Association offers a resource for people who are low-income that need legal assistance. This website provides a list of organizations that provide high-quality pro bono legal services to those who qualify.

National Resources for Grandfamilies: Grandfamilies.org is a collaboration between Generations United, the American Bar Association's Center on Children and the Law and Casey Family Programs. This website acts a legal resource for grandfamilies by providing information and access to helpful programs.
IMMIGRATION
Grandfamilies and Immigration: Because of the increase in immigration enforcement and child separation at the U.S. southern border, grandparents and other relatives are stepping up to raise many of these children. This report by Generations United highlights the additional barriers children and caregivers face when a grandfamily forms because of the detention or deportation of the parent(s).
CHILDCARE
ChildCare.gov Database: The US Department of Health and Human Service's Administration for Children and Families established ChildCare.gov to assist parents with finding and funding childcare. This database provides easily searchable information by each state regarding childcare services, financial assistance for childcare and important information on finding a good provider.

[1] 2009-2018 Current Population Survey Annual Social and Economic Supplement (CPS ASEC). Estimates represent a three-year average (2016-2018). Retrieved from https://datacenter.kidscount.org/data/tables/7172-children-in-kinship-care?loc=1&loct=1#detailed/1/any/false/1687,1652,1564,1491,1443,1218,1049,995/any/14207,14208. This report is focused on children in grandfamilies without any parents in the home.

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Resources for grandparents raising grandchildren " NCRC

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Over 2.6 million children in the United States are being raised by grandparents, other relatives or close family friends.[1] While it can be extremely rewarding for an older adult to take on the responsibility of raising a child, there are also many challenges that arise. There is a wide variety of reasons kinship families form.

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Provides support for widows ages 50 and younger. Contact: Pam Walker (937) 434-7981/(932) 672-8810 or email at DaytonYWSG@aol.com

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Assistance programs aid with free food, housing costs, rent, energy bills, mortgages, and free health care.

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You are here: Home " Ohio Assistance

Single moms can receive help and assistance in all cities and counties across the state of Ohio. Assistance programs aid with free food, housing costs, rent, energy bills, mortgages, and free health care.
Mortgage Help and Foreclosure Prevention
Ohio offers a list of programs to help single moms with paying their mortgage and also to avoid foreclosure,. In your local town and county, some services are offered. 888-362-6432 to contact the Ohio Housing Finance Agency.
Additionally, a voluntary mediation program is offered by the state that will ensure homeowners and their banks communicate in an effort to resolve the crisis.
Non-profit HUD approved housing agencies have counselors that can help single moms by directing them to various programs and solutions that are available to them. Some of these programs and resources are free.

Crisis Assistance
The Salvation Army is one of the leading non-profits to call in Ohio. Rend, medications, energy bills, gasoline are some of the needs that the programs may help cover. Services are available, in spite of limited funding.

Community Clinics
Either free or low cost medical and health care is provided by various clinics in Ohio.
Several non-profits across Ohio also offer dental services such as cleanings, check ups and more in addition to the health care that clinics offer.
The government and non-profits can offer health care for single moms who are uninsured or that have limited health insurance coverage. Prescription medication, check ups, and medical care for children are some of the resources made available.

Ohio Healthy Families
Coverage and help with paying bills and health care costs is provided by this free health insurance program to lower income single moms in Ohio. 800-324-8680.

Ohio Department of Job and Family Services (ODJFS)
A wide range of assistance is offered to Ohio residents and single moms by this agency. Unemployment compensation, cash assistance and grants, health care aid, food assistance, child support, and training and unemployment assistance are some of the types of help the state can provide.

Employment Services, Grants, and Education
A community action agency may be able to help if you are struggling to increase your income, find a job, or to pay your bills. Case managers help people address a crisis, assisting clients with long term self-sufficiency.

by SingleMom.com

Ohio Works First OWF stands for Ohio Works First which is the financial assistance part of Ohio's Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) program. OWF was established to provide time-limited assistance to eligible families. OWF provides cash benefits to eligible, needy families for up to 36 ... Read More "

Filed Under: Tagged With: Assistance Resources, Child Care Programs, Housing Programs, Ohio Assistance Single Moms Resources by State

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You are here: Home " Ohio Assistance Single moms can receive help and assistance in all cities and counties across the state of Ohio. Assistance programs aid with free food, housing costs, rent, energy bills, mortgages, and free health care.