Finding help for a child or family member with autism or another disability can be confusing — especially when you’re trying to figure out what programs are actually available here in Tallahassee.

Fortunately, Tallahassee families have access to quite a few free and low-cost resources, along with Florida and national programs that can help with early intervention, school services, healthcare, financial assistance, respite care and more.

Here are some good places to start.

1. Florida Early Steps

If you have an infant or toddler who may have a developmental delay or disability, Florida Early Steps should be one of your first stops.

The program serves eligible children from birth to age 3 and provides early-intervention services and family support. Tallahassee families are served through the local Early Steps program for our area.

2. Leon County Schools Exceptional Student Education

Children who qualify for special education services through Leon County Schools may receive services and accommodations through an Individualized Education Program (IEP) or other programs.

If you have concerns about your child’s development, learning, communication or ability to participate at school, you can ask the school about evaluation and available Exceptional Student Education services.

3. Florida Diagnostic & Learning Resources System (FDLRS)

FDLRS provides information, training and support for families and educators of children with disabilities throughout Florida.

This can be especially helpful if you’re trying to understand evaluations, special education services or how to better advocate for your child at school.

4. Center for Autism and Related Disabilities at FSU

Tallahassee families have a particularly useful resource right in our backyard. The FSU Center for Autism and Related Disabilities (CARD) provides support, consultation, training and resources for individuals with autism and related disabilities and their families.

Many CARD services are provided at no cost to eligible families.

5. Florida Medicaid Waiver Programs

Florida Medicaid has programs that may help eligible people with disabilities receive services in their homes and communities rather than institutional settings.

Depending on the program and eligibility, assistance may include personal support, respite care and other services. Start with the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration for current Medicaid information.

Tip: Some Florida disability programs have waiting lists, so this is one area where it’s worth looking into eligibility sooner rather than later.

6. Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities

The Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) works with Floridians who have certain developmental disabilities.

Programs can include assistance with community-based services, supported living, employment and other disability-related needs.

7. ABLE United

ABLE United is Florida’s ABLE savings program. Eligible individuals with disabilities can save money for qualified disability expenses while receiving certain tax advantages.

Funds can be used for expenses such as education, housing, transportation, healthcare, assistive technology and other eligible needs.

8. Florida Alliance for Assistive Services & Technology

FAAST helps Floridians with disabilities access assistive technology that can make everyday life easier.

That can include equipment and technology for communication, mobility, education, employment and independent living.

9. Parent Training & Information

Parents don’t have to figure out the special-education system alone. Florida families can find Parent Training and Information Centers that help parents understand IEPs, evaluations, accommodations and their child’s educational rights.

Use the Center for Parent Information and Resources to find the organization serving Tallahassee and North Florida.

10. Respite Care Resources

Parents and caregivers need breaks, too. The National Respite Locator can help Tallahassee families search for respite programs and caregiver-support resources available in Florida.

11. Inclusive Recreation & Activities

Don’t forget to check Tallahassee’s recreation programs for adaptive and inclusive activities. Opportunities can change throughout the year, but local parks, recreation programs and community organizations may offer activities designed to include children and adults with disabilities.

You can also search NCHPAD for adaptive recreation and physical-activity resources.

12. Call 211 Big Bend

One of the easiest local resources to overlook is 211 Big Bend.

They can help connect Tallahassee and Big Bend families with local organizations providing assistance with healthcare, food, housing, transportation, mental health, caregiver support and other needs.

Don’t Assume You Won’t Qualify

Eligibility varies considerably from one program to another. Income isn’t the only factor for every disability-related service, so don’t automatically assume your family won’t qualify.

And if you know of a great Tallahassee autism or disability resource that should be on this list, let us know. We’d like to keep this guide updated as a useful local resource for Tallahassee families.