AFT also provides employment benefits counseling services for people with disabilities who want to work, but are afraid of losing their government benefits. Professionals and families/consumers may access our Employment Benefits Counseling Program to learn how wages will impact a consumer’s government benefits. Rather than navigating alone the complex system of federal and state benefits, participants will be guided through the potential effects on SSI, SSDI, Subsidies, Waivers, Medical Assistance, Medicare, HUD housing, SNAP Benefits,, energy assistance, etc. The fear of losing even one government support creates a barrier to seeking employment. Our goal is to eliminate these barriers by assisting individuals to plan ahead financially, and understand the effects of wages on government benefits.
Lastly, Achieva Family Trust also operates a Charitable Residual Program. When a beneficiary of a pooled trust has passed away, any remaining funds become part of the Charitable Residual Account and are used to benefit individuals with disabilities throughout Pennsylvania. The Charitable Residual Program funds a wide range of requests including, but not limited to iPads and computers, camp and recreational activities, medical equipment, and home and vehicle modifications. Since 2005, the Trust has provided more than $8,000,000 in goods and services to people with disabilities in need.
As a result of the work we do, caregivers, providers and attorneys have greater awareness that Achieva Family Trust is a “one stop shop”, where they can go for comprehensive information regarding the future planning process and employment benefits counseling. Our consultation services are provided free of charge and are truly a valuable service to the community.
For additional information, please visit our website at www.achievafamilytrust.org, or contact us at [email protected] or 412- 995-5000 x565.