The Support Service Provider (SSP) program provides 18-72 hours per quarter of support to eligible DeafBlind consumers. A trained SSP can support a DeafBlind consumer in many ways, including access to visual, situational, and environmental information. This may include transportation, guide/orientation to surroundings, and facilitating communication with others. SSPs are trained to ensure the DeafBlind consumer is empowered to make their own decisions. They can communicate however consumers are most comfortable (spoken English, ASL, tactile sign language, or another method). If you are interested in receiving SSP support or sending a referral for a consumer, please reach out to DeafBlind Programs.

Please refer to the guidelines below for information about the SSP Program.

• Orientation means knowing where you are and understanding your surroundings.
• Mobility means being able to move safely and efficiently from one place to another.

The goal of the O&M program is to support DeafBlind people’s independence and confidence while traveling and navigating different environments.

• Providing assessments to understand what skills the person might need to develop.
• Creating a travel training plan.
• Teaching basic travel skills, like using a white cane, traveling with a guide dog, or moving safely in familiar areas.
• Educating people on people to learn how to use buses, trains, and other community transportation