Hundreds Receive Disability Services, Thousands Still On Waiting List

Those with developmental disabilities in Oklahoma will soon see $1.9 million in an effort to help.

The money was provided by Senate Bill 1932, to aid Oklahoma Human Services (OKDHS) in their mission to serve individuals on their waitlist. 

While the funds will be designated to 270 individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, the waitlist is over 5,500 names.

The Jackson family has waited over a decade for their state benefits, and said they are thankful after receiving a call this week that they were at the top of the list.

"This for me was the best thing that could ever happen for my daughter and myself," said Tarsha Jackson.

Tarsha's daughter, Kirah, has a learning disability.

The family applied for Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS) in 2007.

Although it's been a long wait, they said now they will receive lifelong services that will provide Kirah and Tarsha with independence.

"We get home services, which will provide everything. She will get a lot of one on one. At this point, that is exactly what we are looking for," said Jackson.

Contessa Bass and her 18-year-old son Titus are also on the list.

Titus has Cerebral Palsy, in fact News 9 has followed their story over the years.

Read: Tobias And Titus Gear Up For The Big Race

Titus was also just approved.

"Thirteen years later, yesterday I just came up for services," said Bass. "It's the wind beneath his wings. It's more than a job trainer, or worker it's funding to adapt the house."

However, the fight to help more Oklahomans isn't over.

There are more still waiting.

"We do serve 5,300 people on our home and community-based program, but we do have 5,800 people waiting," said Beth Scrutchins, Division Director for DDS.

The waitlist grows by 30-50 people each month. However, individuals on the waiting list are eligible for and often receive services from other programs while they are waiting. 

"We are part of a continuum of services and resources to the families who need us and are so excited to move these 250 individuals from waiting for services to actually receiving them," said Scrutchins. "This commitment will improve the quality of life for these Oklahomans and their families." 

To apply for services through DDS, please visit the website.