Advocates for Georgians with disabilities say the state faces an urgent need for expanded support services, warning lawmakers that many families are struggling to access essential care.

Advocacy groups and families recently spoke with state leaders about challenges including long waiting lists for services, limited home-care options, and shortages of direct support workers. They say those problems are leaving some people with disabilities without the help they need to live independently.

One of the biggest concerns is the state’s Medicaid waiver programs, which provide services such as in-home care, medical supplies, and personal assistance for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Thousands of Georgians remain on waiting lists for those programs, delaying access to critical services that help people remain in their homes and communities.

Advocates say expanding those programs would allow more individuals with disabilities to avoid institutional care and receive services in community settings, which many families say is both more effective and more humane.

More than 200,000 Georgians with disabilities rely on Medicaid for health care and related services, making the program a key part of the state’s disability support system.

Supporters are urging state leaders to increase funding for services and strengthen the workforce that provides daily care, saying additional resources are needed to keep up with growing demand.

They warn that without stronger support systems, families across Georgia will continue to face significant barriers to care, housing, and independent living for people with disabilities.