Children's Long Term Support (CLTS)

Children's Long Term Support Waivers

Wisconsin has three approved CLTS Waivers for children with development disabilities, physical disabilities, and severe emotional disturbances. The purpose of the waivers is to help families support children with severe disabilities within their own home. The CLTS Waivers are funded through Medicaid and local government funding. They are known as Medicaid Waivers because the federal government "waived" certain regulations so that Medicaid funds can pay for services in the community. 

Who is Eligible?

The CLTS Waivers are available to children and youth under the age of 22. The CLTS Waivers cover a broad range of services, depending upon the child's and family's identified needs. Some examples of possible services include: adaptive aids, service coordination, communication aids, in-home therapy, intensive autism services, daily living skills training, day services, respite care, home modifications and supportive home care.

Family Support Program

The Family Support Program provides individual services and supports to families that include a child with severe disabilities. The Program recognizes that meeting the needs of children who have severe disabilities may place hardships on a family's emotional, physical and financial resources.

The Program offers:

  • Information and help in finding services and maximizing community resources;
  • Limited funding to buy needed services and goods that can't be bought through other sources;
  • Help in linking families with other families to strengthen natural supports.

The foundation of the Family Support Program is the belief that parents of children who have severe disabilities know best what they need. Family Support Coordinators and parents work together to develop an individualized service plan for each family. Home modifications, transportation, specialized equipment, nursing care and respite are examples of items and services the Family Support Program can help the family purchase. 

Who is Eligible?

Families are eligible for services if they have a child with a severe disability, under the age of 21, and living at home. A severe disability is a physical, mental, or emotional limitation which seriously restricts the child's ability to carry out basic daily living activities such as self-care, learning, communications, mobility and self-direction. Although family income is not a basis for eligibility, cost-sharing may be required on a sliding fee scale.