Funded through the Department of Human Services, community supports are programs set up in communities to help those with physical disabilities, traumatic brain injuries, and developmental disabilities. Through such programs, individuals can access a variety of care related services including skilled nursing care, home health aides, personal care attendant services, adult foster care, and training in skills for jobs and daily living.

State Department of Education: Special Education

Provides technical assistance and support to educators and families.

The Minnesota Disability Law Center addresses the unique legal needs of persons with disabilities. MDLC is designated as the state's protecction and advocacy system for persons with disabilities in Minnesota, and receives federal funds for that purpose. Services are provided at no cost to the individual. There are no income guidelines.

The Protection and Advocacy (P&A) System are congressionally mandated, legally-based disability rights agencies. P&A agencies have the authority to provide legal representation and other advocacy services, under all federal and state laws, to all people with disabilities (based on a system of priorities for services). All P&As maintain a presence in facilities that care for people with disabilities, where they monitor, investigate and attempt to remedy adverse conditions. These agencies also devote considerable resources to ensuring full access to inclusive educational programs, financial entitlements, health care, accessible housing and productive employment opportunities.

State agency

Children with special health care needs.

The mission of the Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities is to provide information, education, and training to build knowledge, develop skills, and change attitudes that will lead to increased independence, productivity, self determination, integration and inclusion (IPSII) for people with developmental disabilities and their families.

The years from birth to age five are critical to a child's development. Early Childhood and Family Initiatives programs are geared to helping families of children in these formative years. Our goal is to help parents raise healthy children, and prepare these young people for success in school.