Wisconsin Wayfinder: Guidance on Programs and Support
One of the ways you can support your child’s development and your family is to get helpful resources as soon as possible. It may seem overwhelming at first because there are many programs and supports available.
Get help from the Children's Resource Network
Families and professionals can get connected with the different services, supports, and programs in the Children’s Resource Network that support children and youth ages 0-21 who have delays, disabilities, special health care needs, or mental health conditions. You can connect with Wisconsin Wayfinder: Children’s Resource Network by calling toll-free (877) WiscWay (877-947-2929) or contact us online to get free information and referral services provided by compassionate, trained children’s resource guides in your area.
Explore Wisconsin's programs
Birth to 3 Program
One of the best ways you can support your child’s development is to access helpful resources as soon as possible. The Wisconsin Birth to 3 Program serves families with children under the age of 3 who have delays or disabilities. Once enrolled, a team of professional service providers works with your family to support growth and learning. A child’s services will be shaped by the family’s culture, beliefs, and individual needs.
Children's Long-Term Support Program
The Children’s Long Term Support Program (also known as CLTS) helps children and young adults under the age of 22 with significant developmental, physical, or emotional disabilities and their families live their best lives in their home and community. Supports and services might include everything from respite care and transportation to assistive technology and home modifications.
Katie Beckett Medicaid
Katie Beckett Medicaid serves children under 19 with long-term disabilities or complex medical needs. Children who are not eligible for other Medicaid programs because parents’ income or assets are too high may be eligible for Medicaid through Katie Beckett.
Children's Community Options Program
The Children’s Community Options Program (also known as CCOP) provides a coordinated approach to supporting families who have a child with a disability. It may pay for supports and services that you can’t get through other insurance, Medicaid, or CLTS. It can also pay for a one-time need.
Comprehensive Community Services
Comprehensive Community Services (CCS) is a program that focuses on unique needs that relate to mental health and substance use. CCS is meant to help with recovery. The program works to stabilize and address mental health and substance use concerns.
Coordinated Services Teams Initiatives
Coordinated Services Teams Initiatives (also known as CST) help provide a complete, personalized system of care known as “wraparound.” These focus on children and young adults with complex behavioral health needs. A team of family members and service providers work together to design and carry out a service plan for a child. Learn more about CST.