So there you are, living with a disability in Oklahoma. You know life is challenging enough as it is, and navigating the available resources and programs to help you thrive shouldn’t be another hurdle. The good news is Oklahoma offers several options for assistance. Whether you need help finding a job, transportation, housing, or healthcare, programs are in place to support you.
This blog post is going to explore some major resources in Oklahoma that help make life easier. You don’t have to deal with this by yourself. Help is out there, you just have to go grab it. Your disability doesn’t have to hold you back — there are people and programs to help you live your best life.
5 Nonprofits Supporting Oklahomans With Disabilities
When it comes to supporting Oklahomans with disabilities, several local nonprofits are doing amazing work. Here are a few to know about:
Sunbeam
Sunbeam provides early childhood education, parenting support, senior services, and rehabilitation services for people with developmental disabilities in central Oklahoma. They offer disability services like skills training, employment opportunities, and community living support to help individuals live more independently.
Oklahoma ABLE Tech Program
ABLE Tech, short for Assistive Technology Act Program, provides Oklahomans with disabilities access to assistive technology like screen readers and mobile apps to help increase independence and improve life. The program offers device demonstrations, short-term device loans, and financial assistance for those eligible.
Special Olympics
Special Olympics Oklahoma provides year-round sports training and athletic competition for children and adults with intellectual disabilities. They offer sports camps, competitions and health screenings to over thousands of athletes across the state. Participating in Special Olympics helps build confidence and skills while combating stereotypes about people with disabilities.
Camp Barnabas
Camp Barnabas provides life-changing camp experiences for people with disabilities and chronic illnesses. They have a fully accessible camp facility in Purcell, OK where campers enjoy traditional camp activities such as swimming, hiking, arts and crafts, and worship services tailored to their abilities. Camp Barnabas gives campers opportunities for growth, friendship, and faith in an environment suited to their unique needs. Camps like these could make all the difference when it comes to mental health.
Finding a Disability-Friendly Employer in Oklahoma
Finding accessible and disability-friendly employers in Oklahoma may take some research, but there are resources to help. Some key things to consider:
Check Reviews
Search online for reviews and ratings of potential employers on sites like Glassdoor or Indeed. Find mentions of accommodating interview processes, accessible workspaces, and inclusive company culture. While no company is perfect, this could help determine those making an effort.
Connect with Local Disability Groups
Reach out to organizations like the Oklahoma Disability Law Center or Oklahoma ABLE Tech. They may know of disability-friendly employers in your area or industry. They can also advise on your rights and provide guidance for navigating the hiring process.
Accommodations
Don’t be afraid to ask potential employers about their accommodation policies and processes. How open are they to things like flexible schedules, assistive technologies or workspace modifications? Their willingness to have an open conversation about disability accommodations is a good sign.
Consider Government Agencies or Nonprofits
Government agencies and nonprofits often make strong efforts to promote diversity and inclusion. In Oklahoma, major employers like the University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma University, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and nonprofits like Goodwill Industries may be good options.
While finding a disability-friendly employer in Oklahoma may require patience and not being afraid to ask the right questions can help open more doors. With the right match, you’ll find an employer willing to provide the accommodations and inclusive environment you need to thrive. Keep your head up – the right opportunity is out there!
Accessible Housing Options in Oklahoma
Oklahoma offers several housing options for people with disabilities. Many apartments and communities offer accessible units and amenities.
Section 8 Housing Vouchers Program
The Section 8 voucher program is a federally funded program that provides rental assistance for private housing. Participants pay 30-40% of their income toward rent and utilities, and Section 8 subsidizes the remainder. Some Section 8 properties are accessible or have some accessible units available. Apply with your local public housing authority.
Low-Income Housing Tax Credit Properties
LIHTC properties provide affordable housing for lower-income individuals. Some LIHTC apartments offer accessible or adaptable units. Rent is capped at 30% of the area median income. Search for LIHTC properties on affordablehousingonline.com or your state housing agency website.
Non-Profit Organizations
Non-profits like Volunteers of America and Habitat for Humanity construct and manage affordable, accessible housing. They may offer special programs for veterans, elderly, or disabled individuals. Contact local chapters to inquire about properties and programs in your area.
Home Modification
If you’re a homeowner, modification programs provide grants and loans to make homes more accessible. The Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency offers the Home Accessibility Program which provides 0% interest loans and grants for accessibility improvements like ramps, grab bars, and lifts.
Oklahoma aims to provide suitable, affordable housing opportunities for people with disabilities. With many programs and resources available, individuals can find an option that meets their specific needs. The path to accessible housing may require patience and persistence, but independence is well worth the effort. With the right approach and information, people with disabilities in Oklahoma can achieve safe, accessible, and affordable housing.
Financial Assistance Programs for People With Disabilities
As a disabled resident of Oklahoma, there’re many financial assistance programs available to help cover essential expenses.
Medicaid
Medicaid provides health coverage for eligible disabled individuals, including doctor visits, hospital stays, vaccinations, nursing home care, and more. In Oklahoma, Medicaid benefits include SoonerCare and Insure Oklahoma. To qualify, you must meet certain income requirements based on your family size. Medicaid can also help pay for long-term care services to allow disabled individuals to remain in their homes. Apply at your local Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) or Oklahoma’s health care authority.
Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
SSI provides monthly payments to aged, blind, and disabled individuals with little or no income. Eligibility is based on income, resources, and other factors. Social security payments provide assistance with rent, food, and other essentials. Oklahoma residents may also qualify for state supplemental payments in addition to the federal SSI benefit.
Oklahoma works to empower disabled residents with financial and social support programs. Reach out to social services in your area to determine which programs you qualify for and apply for all the assistance you need. There are many resources available to help improve your quality of life.
Disabled Individuals Could Qualify For a FREE Phone!
If you’re reading this blog, you’re likely facing some sort of struggle because of your disability. Don’t worry — it happens all the time. Luckily, EASY Wireless is here to help!
Partnering with programs such as Lifeline & ACP, we’re offering FREE phones with data to eligible individuals. Whether you need to keep in touch with friends & family or you want to just save money on your current phone plan, here’s what we’re offering:
EASY Wireless Unlimited Plan
- FREE Unlimited Data
- FREE Unlimited Talk
- FREE Unlimited Text
- FREE SIM Card Kit and Activation
- Choose to Keep Your Number or Get a New One
To start with EASY Wireless, apply online by clicking the below:
Start Saving Today!
Start Saving Today!
Or you can come to one of the EASY Wireless’s retail stores, where our customer service agent will help you apply for your benefits.
