Here's what we found for you
- Stories of Self-AdvocacyWatch 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 journeyI 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 servicesEvery 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/.
- 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 resourcesWhether 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 MassillonThe 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 CountyStark 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.
Canton, OH 44708 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.
Canton, OH 44718
The Arc of Ohio: Northeast Region
North Canton, OH 44720
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.
Uniontown, OH 44685
Help Me Grow-Early Intervention
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 walking, speech delays, or social interaction like playing with other children.
Early Intervention is available in every part of the state and to any eligible child,
North Canton, OH 44720
ICAN Housing
Connecting people to housing, mental health services and community support in Stark County, Ohio.
Need help? Click here for first steps.
Canton, OH 44714
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
Canton, OH 44709
Ohio Department of Disabilities
Start a search for waiver-funded service providers offering transportation, housing, day services and 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.
Friendship Village
HUD subsidized income based housing; does not accept Section 8 vouchers. Head of household must be disabled.
Massillon, OH 44647
Kids Link
Individualized education program for children with Autism and other developmental disabilities.
Streetsboro, OH 44241
Make-A-Way Drop-In Center
Social, recreational and educational opportunities for people with mental illnesses and developmental disabilities.
Massillon, OH 44648
Canton Social Security Office
Provides federal disability and social security benefits to Stark County residents.
Suite 100
Canton, OH 43725
Golden Key Center for Exceptional Children
Dedicated child care facility for children with autism, down syndrome or other disabilities.
Canton, OH 44709
Beyond Our Boundaries
Bringing people with developmental disabilities together to set the stage for an active and social life.
Suite D
Canton, OH 44702
Hattie Larlham Constant Companions – North Canton
This day program for adults with disabilities offers social, educational, volunteer, and recreational activities.
#A
Uniontown, OH 44685
Comfort Keepers of Canton
Comfort Keepers provides in-home respite care for senior, sick, or disabled family members.
Canton, OH 44718
Meals on Wheels of Northeast Ohio
Provides food donations to individuals who are homebound due to age, illness or disability, with no eligibility requirements.
Massillon, OH 44646
Canton Towers
Income based housing; does not accept Section 8 vouchers.
Residents must be 62 years of age or older and/or disabled.
Canton, OH 44702
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.
Canton, OH 44708
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.
Canton, OH 44714
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.
Canton, OH 44707
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.
Suite 501
Canton, OH 44702
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.
Canton, OH 44705
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
Hartville, OH 44632
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
Canton, OH 44702
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
Canton, OH 44707
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,
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.
Suite C
Canton, OH 44703