Finding information and referral assistance on a range of topics for persons with disabilities isn’t a challenge at Resource Center for Disability Solutions. We have 48 years of experience coordinating services for a wide range of individuals with specific needs, and this knowledge makes it easier for you to access the programs and services you seek.

We outline how services can combine to create a full scope of support and when needed, link individuals with other agencies. The staff at RCDS stays up-to-date on the issues facing persons with disabilities and the local providers in our area that most benefit your quality of life.

Transition is never easy and RCDS makes it smoother by guiding you through the entire process. We know the ins and outs for youth and adults at various stages of their life.

• YOUTH: Advocacy for youth with disabilities (eligible for an Individual Education Plan (IEP) or 504 Plan) who are completing their secondary education, beginning college, entering the workforce, or transitioning to adulthood with targeted supports to achieve success.

• ADULTS: Advocacy for persons with disabilities moving to or from a home or institutional setting (such as a nursing home or rehabilitation center) as well as those at risk of institutionalization, to obtain required supports and services that help them maintain their independence.

Available Monday – Friday during normal business hours from 8am-4:30pm. Transportation pick up times are dependent on appointments and return travel completion by 4:30pm.

The “Need a Ride” Transportation Program offers free door-to-door, wheelchair-accessible transportation for:

• Medical appointments
• Legal service appointments
• Grocery shopping
• Registrants of RCDS events or training programs

To register for this service, please contact the office at 321-633-6011 for an appointment.

Donations are not required but are appreciated. Donations can be made in the office or online, to our transportation drivers or by mail.

To increase the independence and accessibility of persons with disabilities, we accept donations of, and loan, used durable medical equipment and consumer medical equipment in good working order. This includes:

• wheelchairs and scooters
• walkers, canes, and crutches,
• bedside commodes or shower chairs

Loaned equipment is free of charge and is provided until permanent equipment can be obtained.

We appreciate the generosity of our community but be advised that have limited space to store such items. We request that you never leave equipment outside our offices, but call us first to arrange for your donation and its drop off.

Technology continues to change how we live and manage every aspect of our lives. And technology has definitely made a difference in the lives of those living with a disability. RCDS can guide you to many of the helpful technology tools available today and share information on things such as specialized software, phone apps, listening aids, personal care items and more.

RCDS also assists with access to the Florida Telecommunications Relay Program. This statewide nonprofit 501(C)3 organization administers the specialized telecommunications equipment for citizens who are deaf, hard of hearing, deaf/blind and speech impaired FREE OF CHARGE. Applicants must be a Florida resident, three years of age or older, and certified as having a hearing loss or speech impairment. To read more about the program visit https://www.ftri.org/

The specialized telecommunication equipment includes options such as:

1. Bring your completed FTRI application, certified by your audiologist.
2. Call RCDS at 321-633-6011 to schedule an appointment for a 5-minute hearing test.
3. Qualify automatically if you already wear a hearing aid.

Download an FTRI Application at https://www.ftri.org/ or contact us at 321-633-6011 or 772-774-3060.  Once the equipment is secured, a Florida Relay Service Telecommunications Specialist will provide training on the equipment. If you currently have an FTRI phone and it needs service, please call for appointment.

RCDS provides information on how to obtain qualified sign language interpreters and how to facilitate effective communication for individuals who are deaf. Technical or advocacy assistance is provided as it pertains to the rights of individuals requiring communication access to programs and/or services.

Sorenson Video Relay Service (SVRS) provides high-quality, professional interpreters and a broad range of products in video communication for the deaf with a high-speed Internet connection. Using a videophone, computer or mobile device, Deaf individuals place SVRS calls to hearing people on a standard phone. Interpreters fluent in American Sign Language and spoken English or Spanish relays the conversation between the two parties. If you do not have access to a Sorenson videophone, you can still use SVRS by calling 1-866-327-8877 from any videophone. The service is available 24/7 and is free of charge. For more information on the service and equipment, visit the SVRS website or call 1-801-386-8500 (Videophone) or 1-866-756-6729 (Regular Telephone). For persons with disabilities, contact us to access video relay services in our office.