Here's what we found for you

There are 21 topics and 29 local resources that match your search for disability.
  • Stories of Self-Advocacy
    Watch these videos from Stark County Board of Developmental Disabilities to find out how young people with disabilities are advocating for themselves.
    • Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month: A mother and son’s 20-year journey
      I teach about people with disabilities and how Stark DD helps more than 3,900 people, including my son, living in Stark County. Read our story.
      • Applying for disability

        Do you feel that you or someone you know is eligible for disability services? If you are no longer able to work due to an illness, accident or injury, you may qualify for social security disability insurance in Stark County. Learn how to apply for disability assistance and get started today.

        • Developmental disabilities: childhood

          For school-aged children with developmental disabilities, services are typically provided through specialized instruction in a classroom setting. Additional resources may include occupational, physical and/or speech/language therapies, nursing services and behavior supports. Learn more about the educational programs available for children with developmental disabilities in your home system by consulting your district’s special education department.

          • Developmental disabilities: early childhood

            Caring for children with developmental disabilities presents unique challenges. For children up to age 3, Stark County Early Intervention (EI) provides services for families to help children reach their full potential. Using a team approach, developmental specialists and therapists, who are specific to the needs of the family, work with caregivers and children to coach, teach specific techniques, and provide appropriate resources to parents and caregivers. Learn more about the programs and services available for young children with developmental disabilities.

            • Developmental disabilities: youth & teens

              Beginning around age 14, is it important that families of children with developmental disabilities start the process of transitioning to adulthood. This includes activities such as age-appropriate transition assessments, setting measurable postsecondary goals and planning an eventual career path. Through support from the Stark County Board of Developmental Disabilities, learn ways to set your child up for success and independence in adulthood.

              • Guardianship

                Guardianship is established when a person with functional needs is no longer able to maintain control over their own decisions. Because this is a legally binding process, it should only be considered as a last resort. Explore alternatives to guardianship and learn about ways to protect the rights of Stark County residents with disabilities.

                • Special education services
                  Every child with developmental disabilities has a right to receive a free, appropriate, public education in the least restrictive environment possible. Learn how school districts across Stark Country are supporting students with functional needs through a variety of educational programs and services.
                  • Developmental Disabilities Family Support

                    Caring for a child with developmental disabilities can be a significant financial and emotional challenge. Stark Help Central has gathered together some of the most common resources to help you provide the care your child needs. From transportation and child care to cash, food and employment support, learn about the resources available to you.

                    For more information on how to apply for accessible plates or windshield placards, visit bmv.ohio.gov/.

                    Resources for Individuals &

                    • Financial support: developmental disabilities

                      People with developmental disabilities face unique challenges as they strive to build independent and fulfilling lives. If you or someone you know has a qualifying disability, there are many assistance programs and services available to help you support yourself financially. Learn about your options to help along your journey toward financial stability.

                      • Developmental disabilities: young adults

                        The journey to adulthood can be challenging for anyone, and especially for young people with developmental disabilities. From securing employment and managing health care responsibilities to finding accessible housing and transportation, there is a lot to learn to ensure a smooth transition. To plan for success in the adult world, community resources are available. Learn about the advocates and supporters helping to empower young adults with disabilities in Stark County, Ohio.

                        • From a Mom Who Knows: Celebrating Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

                          I love to take my children out of the house. Whether it is shopping, the park, going for a walk around the neighborhood, to church, or on an adventure- we are always on the go. However, as a parent of two special needs daughters, both with different needs, this can be a challenge. Having one child with physical disabilities means we must make sure the location is accessible and can be accommodating to our specific needs.

                          • Employment resources
                            Whether you are a young person looking for a part-time job, a parent who is out of work or an individual with disabilities planning for independence, resources are available to help you navigate the job search.
                            • Transportation Services

                              For many Stark County residents, public transportation services are essential for their basic needs, including trips to work and medical appointments. Fortunately, local transportation resources are available to support low-income individuals as well as those with permanent disabilities. Find routes and more information for SARTA here.

                              • 2-1-1 Helpline Transitions Resources to StarkHelpCentral.com

                                In 2023, 2-1-1, Stark County’s helpline, transitioned to StarkHelpCentral.com. 

                                Closing the Stark County information system and online database—that was run by United Way of Greater Stark County—and moving resources to StarkHelpCentral.com helps streamline the process for community members looking for resources and information.  

                                StarkHelpCentral.com can help you find community resources available to you and your family. The searchable community resource website is supported by Stark County Mental Health & Addiction Recovery (StarkMHAR),

                                • 2024 Holiday Giving Programs for Families in Need

                                  The Salvation Army is collecting donations of holiday gifts during its Angel Tree campaign to be distributed to local families in need. A Community Christmas of Stark County will be offering holiday gift assistance with their community programs. Below is a guide of the locations and information on how families can register this holiday season.

                                  The Salvation Army of Massillon

                                  The Salvation Army of Massillon is accepting registration for its Christmas Assistance program.

                                  • Disaster Recovery

                                    If you recently experienced a disaster and need immediate assistance

                                    • Call 911 for immediate medical attention
                                    • Find a shelter if you have evacuated because of a disaster, and need to shelter outside of the hazard area. Search online using the American Red Cross Shelter Finder for help with locating open shelters near you.
                                    • Text loved ones or use a Wi-Fi connection to update your status on social media to let others know you are safe.
                                    • Looking for Work in Stark County, Ohio Without a Degree: Opportunities, Resources, and Tips

                                      Stark County offers a wealth of employment opportunities across various industries, many of which don’t require any more than a High School Diploma or GED. From manufacturing to healthcare, retail, and tourism, the job market in the area is rich and diverse. In this article, we’ll explore the industries in Stark County and the resources available for a successful job search that doesn’t require a college degree.

                                      Manufacturing in Stark County

                                      Stark County has a deep-rooted history in manufacturing,

                                      • Trauma: childhood

                                        When children are exposed to violence, abuse or even natural disasters, their confidence is shaken, and their view of the world can be altered. A child’s psychological and physical response to these events can have long-lasting implications for their success in school, their personal relationships and their behavior. Find local resources and childhood counseling to support children who have experienced trauma in Stark County.

                                        • Trauma: youth & teens

                                          Most people will experience a traumatic event at some point in their lives. Whether it is a natural disaster, exposure to violence or abuse, or the death of a loved one, a person’s ability to cope with these experiences can have a lasting effect. When a teen experiences trauma, they may respond differently than a younger child or an adult. Find local resources to help support young people who have gone through trauma and their traumatic stress in Stark County.

                                          • Are you in crisis?

                                            If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text one of the hotlines below. Counselors and intake specialists are available to offer free, confidential support whenever you need it.

                                            In emergency situations, dial 911 and request a Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) trained officer.

                                            Stark County Board of Developmental Disabilities

                                            A Major Unusual Incident (MUI) is an event that negatively impacts the health, safety or wellbeing of an individual with developmental disabilities. If you or someone you know is experiencing a major unusual incident, call the 24-hour hotline to report the event.

                                            MUI Hotline: 330-477-4477

                                            The Stark County Board of Developmental Disabilities exists to connect individuals and families with the services they need for health, safety, education and a high quality of life.

                                            2950 Whipple Ave. NW
                                            Canton, OH 44708
                                            Phone: (330) 477-5200
                                            Intake: (330) 479-3582
                                            Learn more

                                            GiGi’s Playhouse Canton- Down Syndrome Center

                                            GiGi’s Playhouse Canton is fulfilling the dream of the Down syndrome community of having a location where individuals with Down syndrome of all ages have a place to call their own, where they feel safe and can explore their abilities through proven programs with support and celebration. Parents no longer feel the anxiety of finding a place where their loved one will be unconditionally accepted and offered opportunity to become their best of all.

                                            Each participant will grow with the programs at their own pace and interact with their peers in an environment of celebration and achievement. 

                                            4061 Bradley Circle NW
                                            Canton, OH 44718
                                            Phone: (330) 493-9114
                                            Hide HoursShow Hours
                                            Tue.
                                            1:00 pm - 5:00 pm
                                            Wed.
                                            9:00 am - 5:00 pm
                                            Thu.
                                            10:00 am - 7:00 pm
                                            Fri.
                                            9:00 am - 5:00 pm
                                            Sat.
                                            9:00 am - 12:00 pm
                                            Learn more

                                            The Arc of Ohio: Northeast Region

                                            The Arc of Ohio is the voice of people with developmental disabilities, their families, friends of people with disabilities, and those who work with them. The Arc of Ohio is a grassroots organization which advocates for human rights, personal dignity and community participation of individuals with developmental disabilities through legislative and social action, information and education, local chapter supports, and family involvement. The Arc of Ohio can help with IEPs, getting services as well as support for inclusive education and LREs and waiver services for families.
                                            1401 South Main St
                                            North Canton, OH 44720
                                            Phone: (234) 571-5689
                                            Hide HoursShow Hours
                                            Mon.
                                            8:30 am - 4:30 pm
                                            Tue.
                                            8:30 am - 4:30 pm
                                            Wed.
                                            8:30 am - 4:30 pm
                                            Thu.
                                            8:30 am - 4:30 pm
                                            Fri.
                                            8:30 am - 4:30 pm
                                            Learn more

                                            Direction Home Akron Canton: Aging and Disability Resource Center

                                            Direction Home Akron Canton Area Agency on Aging & Disabilities (Direction Home Akron Canton) is a private, non-profit organization that helps older adults and people with disabilities thrive in the places they want to call home.

                                            • Aging and Disability Resource Center – Provides professional, one-on-one consultations to access to information on in-home care and community resources.
                                              • Meal Sites/Senior Centers
                                              • Assisted Living Waiver
                                              • Care Coordination
                                              • Ohio Home Care Waiver
                                              • PASSPORT
                                              • Acute Care Transitions
                                              • And More

                                            Call (330) 896-9172 or click here to learn more.

                                            1949 Towne Park Blvd
                                            Uniontown, OH 44685
                                            Phone: (330) 896-9172
                                            Hours: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm
                                            Learn more

                                            Help Me Grow-Early Intervention

                                            Concerned about your child’s development? Act Early!
                                             
                                            If you’re concerned that a child may have a delay or disability, it’s important to refer them for Early Intervention as soon as possible. Early Intervention can address all types of concerns, like crawling or walkingspeech delays, or social interaction like playing with other children.
                                             
                                            Early Intervention is available in every part of the state and to any eligible child,
                                            6057 Strip Ave NW
                                            North Canton, OH 44720
                                            Phone Number: 330-479-3448
                                            Phone Number: 330-479-3448
                                            Referral Number: 1-800-755-4769
                                            Referral Number: 1-800-755-4769
                                            Learn more

                                            ICAN Housing

                                            Connecting people to housing, mental health services and community support in Stark County, Ohio.

                                            Need help? Click here for first steps.

                                            1214 Market Ave. N
                                            Canton, OH 44714
                                            Phone: (330) 455-9100
                                            Hide HoursShow Hours
                                            Mon.
                                            8:00 am - 5:00 pm
                                            Tue.
                                            8:00 am - 5:00 pm
                                            Wed.
                                            8:00 am - 5:00 pm
                                            Thu.
                                            8:00 am - 5:00 pm
                                            Fri.
                                            8:00 am - 5:00 pm
                                            Learn more

                                            Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities

                                            Helping to support Ohioans with disabilities as they achieve quality employment and independence:

                                            • Customized employment plans
                                            • Education
                                            • Social Security disability determination
                                            816 30th St. NW
                                            Canton, OH 44709
                                            Phone: (330) 438-0500
                                            Learn more

                                            Ohio Department of Disabilities

                                            Start a search for waiver-funded service providers offering transportation, housing, day services and more.

                                            Learn more

                                            Ohio Coalition for the Education Of Children with Disabilities

                                            The Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities (OCECD) is a statewide nonprofit organization that serves families of infants, toddlers, children and youth with disabilities in Ohio, educators and agencies who provide services to them.

                                            Phone: (740) 382-5452
                                            Learn more

                                            Friendship Village

                                            HUD subsidized income based housing; does not accept Section 8 vouchers. Head of household must be disabled.

                                            1308 Cherry Rd. NW
                                            Massillon, OH 44647
                                            Phone: (330) 830-1246
                                            Learn more

                                            Kids Link

                                            Individualized education program for children with Autism and other developmental disabilities.

                                            899 Frost Rd.
                                            Streetsboro, OH 44241
                                            Phone: (330) 963-8600
                                            Learn more

                                            Make-A-Way Drop-In Center

                                            Social, recreational and educational opportunities for people with mental illnesses and developmental disabilities.

                                            227 3rd St.
                                            Massillon, OH 44648
                                            Phone: (330) 837-0650
                                            Hide HoursShow Hours
                                            Mon.
                                            3:00 pm - 8:00 pm
                                            Tue.
                                            3:00 pm - 8:00 pm
                                            Wed.
                                            3:00 pm - 8:00 pm
                                            Thu.
                                            3:00 pm - 8:00 pm
                                            Fri.
                                            3:00 pm - 8:00 pm
                                            Learn more

                                            Canton Social Security Office

                                            Provides federal disability and social security benefits to Stark County residents.

                                            301 McKinley Ave. SW
                                            Suite 100
                                            Canton, OH 43725
                                            Phone: 1 (877) 255-1509
                                            Hide HoursShow Hours
                                            Mon.
                                            9:00 am - 4:00 pm
                                            Tue.
                                            9:00 am - 4:00 pm
                                            Wed.
                                            9:00 am - 12:00 pm
                                            Thu.
                                            9:00 am - 4:00 pm
                                            Fri.
                                            9:00 am - 4:00 pm
                                            Learn more

                                            Golden Key Center for Exceptional Children

                                            Dedicated child care facility for children with autism, down syndrome or other disabilities.

                                            1431 30th St. NW
                                            Canton, OH 44709
                                            Phone: (330) 493-4400
                                            Learn more

                                            Beyond Our Boundaries

                                            Bringing people with developmental disabilities together to set the stage for an active and social life.

                                            601 Cleveland Ave. NW
                                            Suite D
                                            Canton, OH 44702
                                            Phone: (330) 455-8111
                                            Learn more

                                            Hattie Larlham Constant Companions – North Canton

                                            This day program for adults with disabilities offers social, educational, volunteer, and recreational activities.

                                            1402 Boettler
                                            #A
                                            Uniontown, OH 44685
                                            Phone: (330) 899-9067
                                            Learn more

                                            Comfort Keepers of Canton

                                            Comfort Keepers provides in-home respite care for senior, sick, or disabled family members.

                                            4111 Bradley Circle NW #150
                                            Canton, OH 44718
                                            Phone: (330) 244-9071
                                            Learn more

                                            Meals on Wheels of Northeast Ohio

                                            Provides food donations to individuals who are homebound due to age, illness or disability, with no eligibility requirements.

                                            2363 Nave Rd. SE
                                            Massillon, OH 44646
                                            Toll free: 1 (800) 466-8010
                                            Toll free: 1 (800) 466-8010
                                            Local: (330) 515-5605
                                            Learn more

                                            Canton Towers

                                            Income based housing; does not accept Section 8 vouchers. 

                                            Residents must be 62 years of age or older and/or disabled.

                                            131 5th St. NE
                                            Canton, OH 44702
                                            Phone: (330) 456-7847
                                            Learn more

                                            Visiting Angels

                                            Respite care is available to support elderly and disabled adults and their caregivers. This includes temporary care, part-time care, and support care.

                                            4905 Hills & Dales Rd. NW
                                            Canton, OH 44708
                                            Phone: (330) 497-5995
                                            Learn more

                                            Quality of Life Health Care Service, LLC

                                            Quality of Life Health Care Service, LLC provides care services for those with developmental disabilities in Stark, Summit, and Portage counties.

                                            2019 NE Maple Ave.
                                            Canton, OH 44714
                                            Phone: (234) 207-5944
                                            Learn more

                                            Stark Area Regional Transit Authority (SARTA)

                                            Public transportation through 34 fixed routes and four transit centers. Special programs are available for students, Medicaid recipients and individuals with developmental disabilities.

                                            1600 Gateway Blvd. SE
                                            Canton, OH 44707
                                            Toll free: 1 (855) 887-2782
                                            Toll free: 1 (855) 887-2782
                                            Proline service: (330) 455-2292
                                            Proline service: (330) 455-2292
                                            Teletypewriter (TTY): 711 or 1 (800) 750-0750
                                            Teletypewriter (TTY): 711 or 1 (800) 750-0750
                                            Bus service: (330) 477-2782
                                            Bus service: (330) 477-2782
                                            Learn more

                                            Stark County Probate Court

                                            When a person is unable to manage his or her personal estate because of a disability or chronic illness, a guardian is appointed by the Stark County Probate Court.

                                            110 Central Plz. S
                                            Suite 501
                                            Canton, OH 44702
                                            Phone: (330) 451-7755
                                            Hide HoursShow Hours
                                            Mon.
                                            8:30 am - 4:30 pm
                                            Tue.
                                            8:30 am - 4:30 pm
                                            Wed.
                                            8:30 am - 4:30 pm
                                            Thu.
                                            8:30 am - 4:30 pm
                                            Fri.
                                            8:30 am - 4:30 pm
                                            Learn more

                                            Cedar Oaks

                                            Income based housing; does not accept Section 8 vouchers. 

                                            Residents must be over the age of 63, handicapped and/or disabled.

                                            All units are handicapped accessible.

                                            3538 Millvale Ave. NE
                                            Canton, OH 44705
                                            Phone: (330) 455-1905
                                            Learn more

                                            Pegasus Farm

                                            Helping to maximize the potential of individuals with disabilities to become independent, well-rounded, self-confident individuals:

                                            • Equine activities
                                            • Recreational programs
                                            • Social services
                                            • Vocational support
                                            7490 Edison St. NE
                                            Hartville, OH 44632
                                            Phone: (330) 935-2300
                                            Learn more

                                            YWCA Canton

                                            Provides emergency shelter to the homeless and tools to help them get back on their feet and become self-sufficient

                                            Also provides early care and education services to children that enhance their development and prepare them to be successful as they transition to kindergarten

                                            To be placed in housing you must first register with the homeless hotline by calling 330-452-4363

                                            231 6th St. NE
                                            Canton, OH 44702
                                            Phone: (330) 453-7644
                                            Hide HoursShow Hours
                                            Sun.
                                            8:00 am - 9:00 pm
                                            Mon.
                                            8:00 am - 9:00 pm
                                            Tue.
                                            8:00 am - 9:00 pm
                                            Wed.
                                            8:00 am - 9:00 pm
                                            Thu.
                                            8:00 am - 9:00 pm
                                            Fri.
                                            8:00 am - 9:00 pm
                                            Sat.
                                            8:00 am - 9:00 pm
                                            Learn more

                                            American Red Cross: Stark and Muskingum Lakes Chapter

                                            We help communities in Northern Ohio prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies. We are able to make a difference in our local communities because of the generosity of our donors and support of our volunteers. Together, we provide the following programs and services:

                                            • Disaster Services
                                            • Volunteer Services
                                            • Blood Donation Services
                                            • Lifesaving Skills Training
                                            • Military or Veterans Assistance (mental health counseling, emergency assistance and job services)
                                            • Home Fire Campaign
                                            408 9th St. SW
                                            Canton, OH 44707
                                            Phone: (330) 453-0146
                                            Learn more

                                            Crisis Lifeline

                                            24/7 Phone #’s
                                            Call or text: 988
                                            Chat on website: www.988lifeline.org
                                            Or call: 330-452-6000 

                                            The new three-digit dialing code, 988 Lifeline, connects callers to the 988 Crisis Lifeline. When you call, text or chat using the 988 Lifeline, you’re connected to trained counselors that are part of the 988 Lifeline network, made up of more than 200 local crisis centers. Counselors are trained to provide emotional support and crisis counseling to people in suicidal crisis,

                                            Hotline: (330) 452-6000
                                            Hotline: (330) 452-6000
                                            Textline: Text 4hope to 741741
                                            Learn more

                                            Catholic Charities

                                            Emergency rental  assistance for Stark County residents (under 65): visit ccdoy.org to fill out a pre-screening application 

                                            Through tangible assistance and other essential services, Catholic Charities affirms human dignity, meets basic human needs, strengthens families, builds communities, and empowers others to transform their lives.

                                            832 McKinley Ave NW
                                            Suite C
                                            Canton, OH 44703
                                            Phone: (330) 491-0896
                                            Hide HoursShow Hours
                                            Mon.
                                            8:30 am - 4:30 pm
                                            Tue.
                                            8:30 am - 4:30 pm
                                            Wed.
                                            8:30 am - 4:30 pm
                                            Thu.
                                            8:30 pm - 4:30 pm
                                            Fri.
                                            8:30 am - 4:30 pm
                                            Learn more