Tuesday, November 7, 2023
“Connecting Wisconsin families with special health care needs to essential support and resources”
As educators in Wisconsin schools, you have incredible access to providing families with timely and relevant information. Wisconsin Wayfinder is a resource to share with all families in your schools and districts, and in particular families with children with disabilities or mental health needs. Wisconsin Wayfinder helps families find county and statewide disability and mental health services beyond the support provided by schools. As a close partner with Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS), Wisconsin DPI asks school and district leaders to please share out the below information on your school district webpages, newsletters to families, and consider sharing information about Wisconsin Wayfinder with families at individualized education program meetings.
Last week the Wisconsin DHS launched a new service that will transform the support structure for families of children with delays, disabilities, special health care needs, or mental health conditions. Wisconsin Wayfinder: Children’s Resource Network includes a user-friendly website and toll-free helpline that lets families easily connect with real people (dedicated children’s resource guides) who will help navigate through the essential services and supports that will enable their children to thrive.
“This service is a critical step toward improving the way families with special health care needs access and connect with the vital resources they need, especially during crucial moments like after an initial diagnosis,” said DHS Deputy Secretary Deb Standridge. “Our children’s resource guides are people committed to personally assisting families on this journey. Wisconsin Wayfinder embodies our commitment to inclusivity, support, and accessibility for our state’s children and their families.” View the entire news release.
A statewide user-friendly website and toll-free number, 877-WiscWay (877-947-2929), provide families with convenient, direct access to compassionate and knowledgeable children’s resource guides. Please share the toll free number (877-WiscWay) and this Link to Wisconsin Wayfinder webpage with families in your schools, districts, and communities.