Volume 14 / Number 1 /
EDITOR: Randy Alexander
MCIL is a community based non-profit organization whose primary mission is to facilitate the full integration of persons with disabilities into all aspects of civic life.
By Randy Alexander
While these have been some important victories, they are small steps compared to what may be coming. On January 28th Governor Bredesen, in his State of the State speech not only mentioned the need for change but declared, “We need more residential alternatives to nursing homes and we need more consumer-directed options such as allowing the consumer to select or even employ his or her own caregivers.”
Picture Ommitted: Of “Fred Bones” a plastic skeleton sitting in a wheelchair with a sign on his chest with a quote from Governor Bredesen that reads, “Tennessee usualy ranks dead last among the states in alternatives to nursing homes. This is the year I want to fix that.”
This wasn’t just a passing line, either. Governor Bredesen discussed the subject as an area he wants changed, even mentioning how TennCare would be making rules changes, “to open the doors to a richer set of choices for our citizens.”
The Governor is definitely talking about some of the changes we’ve all been seeking. He talked in his speech that this change, this growth comes from a situation with his mom in which he said to her, “I’ve seen how much you want to be in your own home; I know how difficult that would have been a few times these past couple of years.”
While the events with his mother may have been the tipping point for him, we know that the catalyst for change has come from all of you that have made phone calls, written letters, joined in protest, gone to a training, a meeting, organized groups, joined groups and more.
Governor Bredesen says it is his job to “open doors to alternatives here in Tennessee.” Don’t forget that our state Legislators will have to pass legislation, so not only do we need to hold Governor Bredesen to his word but we must also hold our General Assembly responsible too.
And while it may be the Governors “job,” it is our duty to continue the struggle for equity for all our brothers and sisters with disabilities. To keep track of the latest information, go to our website www.mcil.org; to take part in the cause, come to a meeting or training or join our phone tree and/or list serve.
To join the MCIL Action Alert Phone Tree call Randy at 726-6404.
To join the MCIL Action Alert list serve e-mail Randy, randy@mcil.org for info on how to join.
Spring Fling: It’s time for that thing called Spring Fling. Friday April 18th 4:30-7:30 MCIL will be having a fun time for all. The grill will be smokin, the music will be playing, and contests too. Call Christina for info or to RSVP, 726-6404.
By Peter Webb
My name is Peter Webb and I am the coordinator for the Home Modification Program of the Memphis Center for Independent Living. The following is an update on the progress of the program, with some of the successes we have had.
As you may already know, this program is funded with money that MCIL won in a lawsuit against some developers who were building apartment complexes without access for persons with disabilities. Because of this, our original mandate was to modify apartment units, primarily by means of ramps, grab bars, and widened doorways.
However, when we first publicized the program to you back in the summer of 2007, we were surprised to be deluged with requests from low-income homeowners for bathroom modifications.
Well, one can turn around in a bathroom and wind up spending $20,000.00 without breaking a sweat, so you can imagine the pickle we found ourselves in, as our funding cap is only $10,000.00 per project. We had to get very creative with the modifications that we do, and the staff here at the Center has done yeoman’s work in assisting me to find the right modifications that can be done for the money we have. We basically got out of the ramp business after brokering a partnership with MIFA, which has a very robust volunteer-driven ramp building program that can complete ramps much more quickly and inexpensively than we can.
I would like to share with you some success stories and quotes from clients we have assisted with the maintenance of their independence:
William B. is a amputee who needed bathroom modifications. With the remodeling of his bathroom using a modular surround plug in unit, he is now able to shower by himself, and as he says, “Feels like a man again.”
Gloria P. is an older woman who was stuck inside her home before we were able to use Home Modification money to make repairs to her ramp. Her real breakthrough, however, came with the modifications we were able to make that increased her access to her bathroom, widening the doorways to give her wheelchair access to the tub. “…Being a disabled female, I had to give up so much. This gave me back my dignity and now I can have a little vanity to me as a woman again. I appreciate the smiles on the faces of the people at the MCIL!”
Loretta H. has progressive multiple sclerosis and has become a chair user within the past few months. We combined her 2 bathrooms to make one large, accessible space with a larger tub that she can now soak in. “It’s a blessing to have the help. Access to my tub and face bowl is a great asset; I am very thankful.”
Unfortunately, our funding is rapidly depleting and as of this writing we have no guarantee of the program being re-funded. If you have questions or are in need of home modifications for disability access, please contact Peter Webb at 726-6404, ext. 119. Know on the front end that we may not be able to get to your project before our money is exhausted, but please do contact us anyway, as we are building a database of inquiries to demonstrate the need for future funding. Let your voice be heard- Free Our People!
By Louis Patrick
About a week or so ago, in the middle of some of January’s worst weather, Evergreen and my part of Crump Ave. began blossoming with orange and white barrels. Day by day curbs disappeared, gradually replaced by concrete forms. Corners and sidewalks were dug out. Gravel was bedded into the forms. And just these last few days, even over the weekend, in spite of cold and rain, concrete has been poured.
Evergreen between Jackson and Poplar is going to have brand new curb ramps! Even the alleyways are getting curb cuts. I’m going to be able to saddle up my scooter and “walk” to my corners stores or to MCIL without ducking and dodging out into the street here and there along the route.
Man! All those barrels are a gorgeous sight!
You’ve probably noticed places here and there all over the city that have sprouted those barrels over the last couple of years as the Memphis implements the Department of Justice settlement that requires the city to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act which requires equal access for all citizens.
The city has a plan for installing curb cuts in all of the intersections in Memphis. It’s going to take decades to get to all the neighborhoods here, though. They’re trying to get to major streets first.
But, here’s some good news. The curb cuts along Crump and Evergreen are being done thanks to a private citizen, the Center’s good friend and former co-worker, Betty Anderson. I get to share the benefit of those curb ramps because Betty lives down the street from me.
You don’t have to wait decades to get curb cuts in your neighborhood. You can call the Mayor’s Action Center at 576-6500 and request that curbs be cut in your neighborhood. It may not happen overnight; it probably won’t. It took two years for the city to be able to respond to Betty’s request. But it’s happening now.
If you need curb cuts in your neighborhood, we encourage you to call MCIL. We’ll help you put in your request to the city, and we’ll help to keep you informed about the progress in making those cuts real.
Don’t sit at home staring out the window. Get out and enjoy the world.
By Hope Johnson and Randy Alexander
What if I told you, that even if you are on Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), you can make $300, just for filing you taxes this year? Would you file? The President’s Economic Stimulus Package will use the 2007 tax return to determine eligibility and calculate the basic amount of the payment.
That means you could have an additional $300 in your pocket and the IRS emphasizes the stimulus payments will not count toward or negatively impact any other income-based government benefits, such as Social Security benefits, food stamps and other programs.
Those who are not required to file a 2007 return but whose total qualifying income including Social Security and certain Veterans benefits would equal or exceed $3,000 should file a return reporting these benefits
For the purpose of the stimulus payments, qualifying income consists of earned income such as wages and net self-employment income as well as Social Security (SSDI) benefits and veterans’ disability compensation. However, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) does not count as qualifying income for the stimulus payment.
In most cases, the minimum payment will be $300 for individuals ($600 for taxpayers who file a joint return) and the maximum payment will be $600 for individuals ($1,200 for taxpayers who file a joint return). Parents and anyone else eligible for a stimulus payment will also receive an additional $300 for each qualifying child.
If you have already filed a 2007 return showing less than $3,000 in qualifying income and did not list their Social Security or certain veterans benefits should file a Form 1040X to list those non-taxable benefits and qualify for a payment.
Two resources available to answer questions are:
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program for low- and moderate-income workers, including veterans call 1-800-906-9887 to locate the nearest VITA site.
AARP Tax Aide site, for those over 60 call 1-888-227-7669 or visit www.aarp.org
If you are on SSDI and need help filling out your forms we will help you. On April 2nd from 1pm-5pm MCIL Staff and Volunteers will be available to help you fill out your forms. You must bring your 2007 Form-1099 SSA-Social Security Benefit Statement. For more info please call Christina or Randy.
Everyone gets digital TV in 2009
Yes, it’s true. If you haven’t heard all broadcast television will be digital starting at midnight, February 17th, 2009.
Could this cost you money? Yes it could, but here is a way to save some cash! If you use rabbit ears, or an antenna you will need to buy a converter box for each TV. Now if your TV is connected to cable, satellite or other pay TV services your TV will not require a converter box.
So how do you save money? Congress set up a program so families can get two coupons for $40 each to help pay for the converter boxes. Many of us can’t afford the high price of cable, I know I can’t, so we will have to buy these converter boxes which normally range about $50-$60. So a $40 coupon is a big deal, especially if you have more then one TV.
To get you coupon or more info call or go online: www.dtv2009.gov or call
1-888-DTV-2009 (1-888-388-2009). Hearing-impaired consumers can use their TTY service by calling: 1-877-530-2634 (English/TTY) or 1-866-495-1161 (Spanish/TTY)
Fax a coupon application to 1-877-DTV-4ME2 (1-877-388-4632)
By Anthony Sledge
Hi my name is Anthony Sledge and I am the newly hired Home Modification & Housing Coordinator here at MCIL. I’m a native Memphian graduated from Melrose High School, Attended Christian Brothers University and currently a Senior at Crichton College majoring in Biblical Studies. I have been married twenty years and have also been in the ministry twenty years.
I have worked in property management in the private sector for the past 15 years. I have professionally managed all types of properties in Memphis, Arkansas, Texas and Mississippi. I am also certified to manage H.U.D properties along with a trained Fair Housing Designation.
I was former Executive Director of Dismas House a transitional program for ex-felons and parolees so I am no stranger to helping those who have needs and are in need of transitional services. I am a true advocate for those who are homeless and in need of direction to help steer their lives back on track as well as those consumers who deserve all the service that I can give.
I consider myself blessed to be in this position at MCIL, I have a god-son who has Down’s Syndrome and he allows me to be a part of his world so that I can always be grateful for the things that those without disabilities take for granted.
I have a passion for housing and helping those consumers who need assistance, so please feel free to call on me at your convenience. If there is anything that I can help you with. If you want to join the Housing Committee, I am sure that there is room for you please contact me at (901) 726 6404 Anthony@mcil.org.
While we have not had time to fully evaluate this important legislation, in a brief evaluation it will create significant changes. Its primary aim is to create a one-stop shop for long term care so individuals can be given the opportunity to receive services in the community first, and nursing homes last.
So the biggest goal is to divert folks from going into nursing homes in the first place, bravo!
Two other important changes in this legislation are one, it does support transitioning people that want out of nursing homes and two, the bill includes nurse exemption. The transition assistance will really help pay for deposits and household goods which are big issues people face when trying to move out of nursing homes.
Nurse exemption allows a non-nurse to do many of the daily tasks individuals with disabilities need assistance with because they physically can no longer do that task. Typically this might include non-injected medications, feeding tubes, bowl and bladder care and more. Currently if TennCare is paying for these services it must be done by a nurse.
However nurse exemption allows a non-nurse to do these same tasks, when the individual is capable of directing those support needs. Not only will this save tremendous amounts of money which means more people can receive services it also means in these days with such nursing shortages, more freedom and opportunities to those that need these supports.
Another important part in the bill is its goal to add consumer directed services, The goal is to provide consumers the option of hiring their own attendants.
There is much more to this bill then covered here so to learn more about the bill you can go to:
Or check the calendar in the Declaration or for a MORE UP TO DATE SOURCE go to the calendar at www.mcil.org
While we celebrate this big victory, and we all should, it is not everything people were hoping for and leaves many of the details to policy makers at TennCare.
While this is ground breaking for change, it is a very small step in the big picture of supports and more importantly consumer involvement in the areas that influence our lives.
Join the MCIL Action Alert System!
Join the MCIL Action Alert Phone Tree,
the MCIL Action Alert e-mail list serve or Both!
Be part of MCIL advocacy efforts by joining the phone tree or the email list serve.
It is simple to join, and it’s completely voluntary. I promise not to send to many messages. If you join, all we ask is when an Action Alert message goes out please do your best to join us in the Action as we work together to Free Our People!
MCIL Action Alert will be used to inform recipients of opportunities to take action to expand the ability of people with disabilities to live and receive the supports they need, where they want them. This could include opportunities to participate in phone call campaigns, letter writing campaigns, email campaigns, direct action opportunities and more.
MCIL Action Alert Phone Tree
With the phone tree you can be a Volunteer to make calls about 5 calls each time or only to receive alerts
We also have the MCIL Action Alert email list serve.
All you need to do is send an email to McilActionAlert@mcil.org and have subscribe in the subject line. Shortly there after you will receive a confirmation email which will need to be responded to, and you are in.
To sign up, or more information call or email randy @ 726-6404 or randy@mcil.org.
Take your first step to action and sign up today!
MCIL would like to recognize several donors: Sponsors are individuals or companies who have donated at least $100.00, Benefactors have donated $500.00 or more. A great big thank you to all these generous donors! If you would like to make a donation to MCIL please contact Renee at 726-6404. Although Sponsors and Benefactors are recognized in the Declaration, any donation can help MCIL do the vital work needed for the civil rights of people with disabilities.
Bill Sachs
Joseph Carton
Donald Threadgill
Once again, thanks to ALL of you that have donated your hard earned Dollars!
THANK YOU!
Summer
of 04, We filled the Governors reception area and discussed HCBS with, then
Deputy to the Governor Cooley.
March
05, At the foot of the Capitol in Nashville.
March
05, Charlotte
Ave in front of the TN Capitol is blocked.
June
05 Bredesen was about to cut HCBS for individuals that used ventilators, which
would have forced hundreds into institutions Top right in the midst of an action
Deborah stops Governor Bredesen to discuss the need for HCBS. Bottom right
Bredesen says, “I’m not taking away there services, they can go to the nursing
home to get services.”
June
05, Bredesen was about to cut HCBS for individuals that used ventilators, which
would have forced hundreds into institutions Top right in the midst of an action
Deborah stops Governor Bredesen to discuss the need for HCBS. Bottom right
Bredesen says, “I’m not taking away there services, they can go to the nursing
home to get services.”
June
05, During the Sit-In at the capitol several days dedicated to HCBS. It’s the
longest capitol sit-in, in U.S. History.
September
05, At a Democratic fund raiser Bredesen is greeted by protestors.
March
06, National ADAPT Action in Nashville Charlotte Ave again blocked.
May
06, At Democratic Party fund raiser because of protesters outside (below) Gov
Bredesen stops to talk with Deborah. She insists Tennessee needs HCBS.
May
06, At Democratic Party fund raiser.
This project is funded in part by the U.S. Department of Education & United Way of the Mid-South