Pennsylvania’s Office of Developmental Programs

Understanding Pennsylvania’s Office of Developmental Programs (ODP): Services, Supports & How Alston Home Care Solutions Helps Families Thrive

💡 Fun Fact: Each waiver is designed to help individuals stay in their communities — not institutions — aligning with the “Everyday Lives: Values in Action” philosophy.

At Alston Home Care Solutions LLC, we believe that knowledge is empowerment. Many families and caregivers in Pennsylvania are unaware of the valuable supports available through the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) — programs designed to help individuals with intellectual disabilities and autism live fulfilling, independent, and meaningful lives.
This guide breaks down what ODP is, the services available, and how our team at Alston Home Care Solutions partners with families and professionals to make the most of these life-changing programs.

Information:
🏛️ What Is the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP)?
The Pennsylvania Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) is part of the Department of Human Services (DHS). ODP oversees a network of community-based services that help people with:

• Intellectual Disabilities (ID)

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

• Developmental Disabilities
  
  ODP’s mission is to ensure that every individual it serves has:

• Choice and control over their lives

• Access to inclusive community supports

• Opportunities to build skills, relationships, and independence
  
  
  ODP supports are offered primarily through Medicaid-funded Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS), commonly known as Waivers.
  
  
  🧩 The Four Main ODP Waivers in Pennsylvania
  Each ODP Waiver has its own eligibility, service types, and funding structure. Here’s an overview:
  
  1. Consolidated Waiver
  Designed for individuals who need 24-hour services or residential support.
  
  Common services include:

• Residential Habilitation

• Community Participation Support (Day Programs)

• Respite and Behavioral Support

• In-Home and Community Habilitation
  
  
  2. Community Living Waiver
  Provides non-institutional, community-based services for individuals who need moderate support.
  
  Services may include:

• Supported Employment

• Community Integration

• In-Home Habilitation

• Companion or Respite Care
  
  
  3. Person/Family Directed Support (P/FDS) Waiver
  This waiver supports individuals living with family members. Families often self-direct care and select their own providers.
  
  Services may include:

• In-Home & Community Habilitation

• Respite Care

• Supports Broker Services

• Assistive Technology
  
  
  4. Adult Autism Waiver (AAW)
  Created specifically for adults age 21+ with an autism diagnosis.
  
  This program focuses on:

• Skill development

• Employment support

• Behavioral therapy

• Respite

• Community integration