SERVICES
USDA-AMS is establishing cooperative agreements with states, territories, and federally recognized tribal governments for the purpose of supporting local, regional, and underserved farmers and producers through food purchases with the LFPA funds. These cooperative agreements will allow recipients to procure local and domestic foods that are unique to their geographic area and meets the needs of their population. Underserved communities will be the priority for distribution of the foods purchased through the program.
The Veteran Directed Care (VDC) program is a partnership between the Department of Veterans Affairs (Veterans Health Administration) and the Center for Living Independently in the CNMI (CLI-CNMI).
The VDC program allows eligible veterans of any age the opportunity to receive personal care services in their homes. Family or friends can be paid to provide that care if a Veteran chooses.
Transition
CLI-CNMI provides resources that would allow possible transition from education to employment. Through the Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act, individuals and the youth with disabilities can acquire skills and training that is necessary to enter competitive and integrated employment.
Independent Living Skills
CLI-CNMI’s newly-completed office and mod-el home provides instruction in daily living skills for individuals with significant disabilities. Skills that include:
• Arts & Crafts
• Gardening
• Household management
• Shopping
• Transportation
• Interpersonal relationships
• Yard maintenance
• Simple meal preparations and more
Instruction is contingent on consumer interest and availability of materials, as well as teachers
Advocacy
CLI-CNMI is thoroughly knowledgeable in meeting the needs of individuals with disabilities, as they, too, share the same needs. CLI-CNMI supports local advocacy organizations in breaking down physical, economic, and social barriers by educating and training others by the Independent Living concept.
Peer Counseling
The CNMI-Independent Living Group (ILG) is an advocacy/peer group of the CLI-CNMI, which is available to anyone in need of its counseling services. The group partic-ipates in numerous fundraisers and good-will events sponsored throughout the com-munity. The ILG conducts fundraisers on their own behalf through:
• Hot lunch sales
• Special occasion gift baskets
• Baseball tournaments &
• Recreational Bingo
In addition, ILG actively supports the rights of individuals with disabilities by providing resources available at the CLI-CNMI center.
Information & Referral
CLI-CNMI collects, distributes and refers re-sources based on information gathered on programs available in the CNMI for individuals with disabilities. Through consistent communication and regular attendance of the scheduled meetings, the Executive Director stays appraised on the current resources offered by like organizations and providers. Information is available through pamphlets, phone inquiry, media, and in person at the CLI-CNMI’s office located in Capital Hill.
