Maryland: Help For Disabled People

Access Vital Information and Connections to Healthcare, Education, Employment, and More for Marylanders with Disabilities.

Maryland offers a wide range of disability services to support individuals with various needs and abilities. These essential services encompass healthcare, education, employment, and community living, ensuring that people with disabilities can lead fulfilling and independent lives. According to the Centers for Disease Control, in 2025, approximately 1,107,766 adults in Maryland have a disability, representing 24% or nearly 1 in 4 adults in the state.

Maryland’s disability services cater to individuals with physical, sensory, intellectual, and developmental disabilities, providing specialized support and accommodations to enhance their quality of life. The state’s commitment to inclusive and accessible programs is evident in its comprehensive approach to disability services.

Key areas of disability services in Maryland include:

  1. Healthcare: Specialized medical care and mental health support
  2. Education: Inclusive learning environments with appropriate accommodations
  3. Employment: Job training, placement services, and workplace accommodations
  4. Community Living: Housing assistance, transportation, and daily living support

This guide outlines various disability agencies and service organizations in Maryland that play crucial roles in delivering these essential disability services. By understanding the available resources, individuals with disabilities and their families can better navigate the support systems in place to help them thrive.


Maryland Disability Employment Services

Maryland Department of Disabilities provides various employment services and resources, including job training and placement assistance, to support individuals with disabilities in securing meaningful employment.

Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) is a state agency that offers vocational rehabilitation services to help individuals with disabilities prepare for, obtain, and maintain employment.

The Arc Maryland is a non-profit organization that advocates for and provides support services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, including employment services and resources.

Maryland Works, Inc. is a non-profit organization that promotes employment and economic opportunities for individuals with disabilities through training, education, and advocacy.

Disability Rights Maryland is a non-profit organization that provides legal advocacy and resources to protect and advance the rights of individuals with disabilities, including support in employment matters.

Independence Now is a non-profit center for independent living that offers various services, including employment support, to individuals with disabilities in Maryland.

Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake provides job training and employment services to individuals with disabilities, helping them achieve economic independence and self-sufficiency.


Maryland Independent Living Services

Accessible Resources for Independence is a center for independent living that provides services and advocacy to promote independent living for people with disabilities in Maryland.

Bay Area Center for Independent Living offers support services and resources to individuals with disabilities to help them live independently and participate fully in their communities.

Southern Maryland Center for Independent Living provides independent living services, advocacy, and resources to individuals with disabilities in the Southern Maryland region.

Freedom Center, Inc. is a center for independent living that offers a range of services, including peer support, advocacy, and independent living skills training, to individuals with disabilities.

Centers for Independent Living provides a directory of centers for independent living in Maryland, offering various services to support independent living for people with disabilities.

Interfaith Housing Alliance is a non-profit organization that provides affordable housing solutions and support services to individuals with disabilities, helping them achieve stable and independent living.

Arundel Community Development Services, Inc. offers housing assistance programs, including support for individuals with disabilities, to ensure they have access to safe and affordable housing options.


Maryland Rehabilitation Services

Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) provides vocational rehabilitation services to help individuals with disabilities prepare for, obtain, and maintain employment.

Adventist HealthCare Rehabilitation offers comprehensive rehabilitation services, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy, for individuals with disabilities.

Mount Washington Pediatric Hospital provides specialized rehabilitation services for children with disabilities, including inpatient and outpatient therapy programs.

University of Maryland Rehabilitation & Orthopaedic Institute offers a wide range of rehabilitation services, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy, for individuals with disabilities.

Kennedy Krieger Institute provides rehabilitation services and therapies for children and adolescents with disabilities, focusing on improving their functional abilities and quality of life.

The League for People with Disabilities offers medical day rehabilitation programs, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy, to help individuals with disabilities achieve their rehabilitation goals.

Sheppard Pratt Health System provides comprehensive rehabilitation services for individuals with mental health and developmental disabilities, including various therapeutic interventions to support their recovery and independence.


Maryland Assistive Technology Services

Maryland Technology Assistance Program (MDTAP) offers a range of services, including device demonstrations, equipment loans, and financial assistance, to help individuals with disabilities access assistive technology.

Image Center of Maryland provides assistive technology services, including device assessments, training, and support, to help individuals with disabilities increase their independence.

Parents’ Place of Maryland offers resources and support for families of children with disabilities, including information on assistive technology and how to access it.

Easterseals DC MD VA provides assistive technology services, including assessments, training, and consultations, to support individuals with disabilities in achieving greater independence.

Maryland Assistive Technology Network (MATN) is an organization that provides resources, training, and support for the use of assistive technology in education settings for students with disabilities.

Independence Now is a non-profit center for independent living that offers various services, including employment support, to individuals with disabilities in Maryland.

Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake provides job training and employment services to individuals with disabilities, helping them achieve economic independence and self-sufficiency.


Maryland Disability Financial Assistance Services

The Social Security Administration offers comprehensive information on disability benefits, including how to apply, eligibility requirements, and the types of benefits available. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is a federal program that provides financial assistance to individuals who are aged, blind, or disabled and have limited income and resources. Use the Social Security Field Office locator to find a location near you or call toll-free: 1-800-772-1213 between 8:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. local time, Monday through Friday. If you’re deaf or hard of hearing and use TTY equipment, you can call their TTY number at 1-800-325-0778.

The Maryland Disability Determination Services is responsible for making medical eligibility decisions for Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) claims.

The Maryland Workers’ Compensation Commission administers the state workers’ compensation laws, ensuring that employees receive proper compensation for work-related injuries or illnesses.

Maryland Department of Disabilities Financial Assistance Programs offers various financial assistance programs to support individuals with disabilities, including grants and loans for assistive technology and home modifications.

Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) provides funding for services and supports to individuals with developmental disabilities, helping them live more independently in their communities.

Maryland Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) offers financial assistance to low-income households, including those with disabilities, to help pay heating bills and prevent energy shutoffs.

Emergency Assistance to Families with Children (EAFC) provides emergency cash assistance to families facing a financial crisis, including those with children who have disabilities.

Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) offers financial assistance through local agencies to support low-income individuals and families, including those with disabilities, in achieving self-sufficiency.

Temporary Disability Assistance Program (TDAP) provides temporary cash assistance to disabled adults without dependent children who are ineligible for other state and federal programs.

Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) offers financial assistance to low-income households, including those with disabilities, to help pay water bills and prevent water shutoffs.


Maryland Disability Transportation Services

Maryland Transit Administration MobilityLink offers paratransit services for individuals with disabilities who are unable to use the fixed-route bus system, providing door-to-door transportation.

Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) MetroAccess provides shared-ride, door-to-door paratransit service for individuals with disabilities within the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, including parts of Maryland.

Anne Arundel County Office of Transportation offers specialized transportation services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, ensuring they have access to medical appointments, shopping, and other essential services.

Montgomery County Department of Transportation provides transportation services for individuals with disabilities, including the Call-n-Ride program and paratransit services.

Prince George’s County Call-A-Bus offers curb-to-curb transportation services for residents with disabilities, providing access to medical appointments, shopping, and other activities.

Frederick County TransIT-plus provides paratransit services for seniors and individuals with disabilities, offering door-to-door transportation for essential trips.

Harford Transit LINK offers ADA paratransit services for individuals with disabilities who are unable to use the fixed-route bus system, providing accessible transportation options.


Maryland Disability Childcare Services

Maryland Family Network provides resources and support for families with children with disabilities, including assistance in finding inclusive child care services.

Special Needs Child Care offers information and resources through the Maryland State Department of Education to help families find and access child care services for children with disabilities.

Abilities Network Project ACT provides training and support to child care providers to ensure they can effectively include and support children with disabilities in their programs.

ARC Northern Chesapeake Region offers child care support services for families with children with disabilities, helping them find appropriate and inclusive care options.

Child Care Choices provides resources and referral services to families seeking child care for children with disabilities, ensuring they have access to inclusive and supportive environments.

Parents’ Place of Maryland offers support and resources for families of children with disabilities, including guidance on accessing appropriate child care services.

Montgomery County Infants and Toddlers Program provides early intervention services and support for families with young children with disabilities, including assistance in finding suitable child care.


Maryland Disability Recreational Services

Maryland Department of Natural Resources Accessible Recreation offers a variety of accessible recreational activities and facilities in state parks, including fishing, boating, and hiking.

The League for People with Disabilities provides a range of recreational programs, including adaptive sports, social activities, and an inclusive summer camp for individuals with disabilities.

Special Olympics Maryland offers year-round sports training and athletic competitions for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Maryland Therapeutic Riding provides therapeutic horseback riding and other equine-assisted activities for individuals with disabilities, promoting physical and emotional well-being.

KEEN Greater DC-Baltimore offers free recreational programs for children and young adults with disabilities, including sports, swimming, and fitness activities.

Courageous Sailing – Chesapeake Region Accessible Boating (CRAB) provides sailing opportunities for individuals with disabilities, offering adaptive sailing programs and events on the Chesapeake Bay.

Baltimore Adapted Recreation and Sports (BARS) offers a variety of adapted sports and recreational activities for individuals with physical disabilities, including wheelchair basketball, rugby, and handcycling.


Maryland Disability Rights & Legal Services

Disability Rights Maryland provides legal advocacy and resources to protect and advance the rights of individuals with disabilities in various areas, including education, employment, and access to services.

Maryland Legal Aid offers free legal services to low-income individuals, including those with disabilities, in areas such as housing, healthcare, and public benefits.

Pro Bono Resource Center of Maryland connects individuals with disabilities to volunteer lawyers who provide free legal assistance in various legal matters.

University of Maryland Carey School of Law Clinical Law Program offers legal services through its clinical program, including advocacy and representation for individuals with disabilities.

Homeless Persons Representation Project provides free legal services to homeless individuals, including those with disabilities, to address legal issues related to housing, public benefits, and more.

Civil Justice, Inc. offers legal assistance and representation to individuals with disabilities, focusing on consumer rights, foreclosure prevention, and other civil matters.

Community Legal Services of Prince George’s County provides free legal services to low-income residents, including individuals with disabilities, in areas such as family law, housing, and public benefits.


Maryland Support Groups for People with Disabilities

The Arc Maryland offers support groups and resources for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

NAMI Maryland provides support groups for individuals with mental health conditions and their families, offering a safe space to share experiences and receive support.

Autism Society of Baltimore-Chesapeake offers support groups for individuals with autism and their families, providing opportunities for connection and shared resources.

Spina Bifida Association of the National Capital Area provides support groups for individuals with spina bifida and their families, offering peer support and information.

Maryland Center for Developmental Disabilities at Kennedy Krieger Institute offers various support groups for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

Multiple Sclerosis Society, Greater DC-Maryland Chapter provides support groups for individuals with multiple sclerosis and their families, offering peer support and information.

Parkinson’s Foundation, Maryland Chapter offers support groups for individuals with Parkinson’s disease and their caregivers, providing a community for sharing experiences and resources.


Maryland Disability Housing Assistance

Maryland Department of Housing and Community Development offers various housing assistance programs for individuals with disabilities, including rental assistance and home modifications.

Abilities Network Project HOME provides housing assistance and support services to help individuals with disabilities find and maintain stable housing.

Accessible Resources for Independence offers housing assistance services, including help with finding accessible housing and home modifications for individuals with disabilities.

Interfaith Housing Alliance provides affordable housing solutions and support services to individuals with disabilities, helping them achieve stable and independent living.

United Way of Central Maryland Housing Assistance offers housing assistance programs for individuals with disabilities, including rental assistance and support services.

Main Street Housing provides affordable and independent housing options for individuals with psychiatric disabilities, promoting recovery and community integration.

Housing Authority of Baltimore City offers housing assistance programs specifically for individuals with disabilities, including accessible housing options and supportive services.


Maryland Disability Education Services

Maryland State Department of Education, Division of Special Education/Early Intervention Services provides resources and support for students with disabilities, including individualized education programs (IEPs) and early intervention services.

Maryland School for the Blind offers educational programs and services for students who are blind or visually impaired, including specialized instruction and support.

Maryland School for the Deaf provides comprehensive educational services for students who are deaf or hard of hearing, including sign language instruction and specialized support.

The Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD) at Kennedy Krieger Institute offers educational services and support for students with autism and related disorders, including individualized instruction and therapies.

The Pathways Schools provide specialized education programs for students with emotional and behavioral disabilities, offering individualized instruction and therapeutic support.

Ivymount School offers educational programs for students with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental disabilities, providing individualized instruction and support.

Hannah More School provides specialized education services for students with learning disabilities, emotional disturbances, and autism spectrum disorders, offering a supportive and therapeutic learning environment.


Maryland Disability Healthcare Services

Kennedy Krieger Institute provides comprehensive healthcare services for children and adults with disabilities, including specialized medical care, rehabilitation, and therapy services.

Mount Washington Pediatric Hospital offers healthcare services for children with disabilities, including inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation, therapy, and specialized medical care.

Johns Hopkins Medicine Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation provides a wide range of healthcare services for individuals with disabilities, including rehabilitation, therapy, and specialized medical care.

University of Maryland Rehabilitation & Orthopaedic Institute offers healthcare services for individuals with disabilities, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy, as well as specialized medical care.

Sheppard Pratt Health System provides mental health and developmental disability services, including inpatient and outpatient care, therapy, and rehabilitation.

MedStar National Rehabilitation Network offers a variety of healthcare services for individuals with disabilities, including rehabilitation, therapy, and specialized medical care.

Chesapeake Health Care provides comprehensive healthcare services for individuals with disabilities, including primary care, mental health services, and specialized medical care.


Maryland Vocational Training for People with Disabilities

Division of Rehabilitation Services (DORS) offers vocational training and support services to help individuals with disabilities prepare for, obtain, and maintain employment.

The Arc of Maryland provides vocational training programs for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, helping them develop job skills and find employment opportunities.

Goodwill Industries of the Chesapeake offers vocational training programs, including job readiness training and skills development, specifically designed for individuals with disabilities.

Independence Now provides vocational training and support services for individuals with disabilities, helping them achieve their employment goals and increase their independence.

Maryland Workforce Exchange offers vocational training and employment services for individuals with disabilities, including job training programs and career counseling.

Easterseals DC MD VA provides vocational training and employment services for individuals with disabilities, helping them develop job skills and find meaningful employment.

Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) Single Step Program offers vocational training programs for individuals with disabilities, including career exploration and job skills training.

Humanim provides vocational training and employment services for individuals with disabilities, including job training programs and supported employment services.


Maryland Mental Health Services for People with Disabilities

Sheppard Pratt Health System offers comprehensive mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including inpatient and outpatient care, therapy, and specialized programs.

Kennedy Krieger Institute provides mental health services for children and adults with developmental disabilities, including therapy, counseling, and behavioral interventions.

Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center offers mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including psychiatric care, therapy, and support programs.

Community Behavioral Health Association of Maryland provides access to a network of mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including counseling, therapy, and support groups.

Cornerstone Montgomery offers mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including therapy, counseling, and supported employment programs.

Pathways provides mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including residential treatment, outpatient therapy, and crisis intervention.

The Pro Bono Counseling Project offers free mental health counseling services for individuals with disabilities who are unable to afford care, connecting them with volunteer mental health professionals.

Chesapeake Mental Health Collaborative provides a range of mental health services for individuals with disabilities, including therapy, counseling, and psychiatric care.


Maryland Vision Services for People with Disabilities

Maryland School for the Blind provides a comprehensive range of vision services for children and young adults who are blind or visually impaired, including educational programs, therapies, and support services.

Blind Industries and Services of Maryland (BISM) offers vision rehabilitation services, training programs, and employment opportunities for individuals who are blind or visually impaired.

The Prevention of Blindness Society of Metropolitan Washington provides vision health services, including eye exams, low vision rehabilitation, and support programs for individuals with visual impairments in the Maryland area.

Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind offers a variety of vision services for individuals with disabilities, including orientation and mobility training, assistive technology training, and low vision services.

Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins provides specialized vision care services, including low vision rehabilitation, comprehensive eye exams, and treatment for eye conditions affecting individuals with disabilities.

Maryland Department of Disabilities Vision Services offers resources and support for individuals with visual impairments, including assistive technology and vision rehabilitation services.

Low Vision Center provides low vision rehabilitation services, assistive device training, and support for individuals with visual impairments to help them maintain independence and improve their quality of life.

Baltimore Eye Physicians offers comprehensive vision care services, including low vision evaluations, treatment for eye diseases, and rehabilitation services for individuals with visual impairments.


Maryland Hearing Services for People with Disabilities

Maryland School for the Deaf provides comprehensive educational and support services for students who are deaf or hard of hearing, including audiology services, speech therapy, and assistive technology.

Hearing and Speech Agency (HASA) offers a wide range of hearing services, including hearing evaluations, hearing aid fittings, speech therapy, and American Sign Language classes.

Kennedy Krieger Institute Hearing and Speech Center provides audiology services, hearing assessments, and speech-language therapy for children and adults with hearing impairments.

Johns Hopkins Listening Center specializes in cochlear implants and offers comprehensive hearing services, including evaluations, implant surgery, and rehabilitation for individuals with hearing loss.

The Audiology Center of Maryland provides hearing evaluations, hearing aid fittings, and auditory rehabilitation services for individuals with hearing impairments.

Maryland Relay offers telecommunications relay services for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, including captioned telephone services and video relay services.

Chesapeake Hearing Centers provides hearing evaluations, hearing aid fittings, and hearing conservation programs for individuals with hearing loss.

University of Maryland Hearing and Speech Clinic offers comprehensive hearing services, including audiology evaluations, hearing aid fittings, and auditory rehabilitation for individuals with hearing impairments.


Maryland Speech & Language Services for People with Disabilities

Hearing and Speech Agency (HASA) offers a variety of speech and language services, including speech therapy, language assessments, and communication skills training for individuals with disabilities.

Kennedy Krieger Institute Speech and Language Clinic provides comprehensive speech and language evaluations, therapy, and specialized programs for children and adults with communication disorders.

University of Maryland Hearing and Speech Clinic offers speech and language services, including diagnostic assessments, individualized therapy, and group therapy sessions for individuals with speech and language impairments.

Mt. Washington Pediatric Hospital Speech-Language Pathology Services provides speech and language therapy for children with disabilities, focusing on improving communication skills and addressing speech disorders.

Children’s National Hospital Speech and Language Services offers speech and language evaluations, therapy, and intervention programs for children with communication disorders and developmental disabilities.

Baltimore County Public Schools Office of Speech-Language Services provides speech and language therapy, assessments, and support services for students with disabilities within the school system.

Anne Arundel County Public Schools Speech-Language Services offers speech and language services for students with disabilities, including evaluations, therapy, and support within the educational setting.

Speech Pathways provides speech and language therapy for children and adults with communication disorders, offering individualized treatment plans and specialized programs to improve communication skills.


Maryland Autism Services

Center for Autism and Related Disorders (CARD) at Kennedy Krieger Institute offers comprehensive services for individuals with autism, including diagnostic evaluations, early intervention, therapy, and support services.

Pathfinders for Autism provides a wide range of resources and support for individuals with autism and their families, including information, advocacy, and community events.

The Shafer Center offers a variety of services for children with autism, including early intervention, speech therapy, occupational therapy, and applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy.

Autism Society of Baltimore-Chesapeake provides support, advocacy, and resources for individuals with autism and their families, including support groups, educational workshops, and community activities.

Trellis Services offers ABA therapy, speech therapy, and educational services for children with autism, focusing on individualized treatment plans and skill development.

Chesapeake Center for Autism provides comprehensive autism services, including diagnostic evaluations, therapy, and family support services.

Ivymount School and Programs offers specialized educational programs and therapeutic services for children with autism, including individualized instruction and support.

Little Leaves Behavioral Services provides ABA therapy and early intervention services for children with autism, focusing on building communication, social, and adaptive skills.


Maryland Early Intervention Services

Maryland Infants and Toddlers Program provides early intervention services for children from birth to age three with developmental delays or disabilities, including evaluations, therapy, and family support.

Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center Child Development Clinic offers early intervention services, including developmental evaluations, therapy, and support for young children with developmental delays.

Abilities Network Project ACT provides early intervention services and support for children with developmental delays and disabilities, including inclusive child care and specialized therapy services.

The Shafer Center for Early Intervention offers early intervention services for children with autism and other developmental delays, including speech therapy, occupational therapy, and ABA therapy.

Chesapeake Center for Autism Early Intervention Services provides early intervention services, including diagnostic evaluations, therapy, and family support for young children with autism.

Little Leaves Behavioral Services Early Intervention Program offers early intervention services, including ABA therapy and developmental assessments for young children with autism and other developmental delays.

Maryland School for the Deaf Early Intervention Program provides early intervention services for young children who are deaf or hard of hearing, including audiology services, speech therapy, and family support.

Montgomery County Infants and Toddlers Program offers early intervention services for young children with developmental delays and disabilities, including evaluations, therapy, and family support.


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