Stay Curious. Stay Connected.
MailNewsletters♡Donate Now
Sign up
*Password must be at least 8 characters and contain one uppercase letter, one lowercase letter, one number and one symbol.
Already have an account?
By submitting, you consent that you are at least 18 years of age and to receive information about MPR's or APMG entities' programs and offerings. The personally identifying information you provide will not be sold, shared, or used for purposes other than to communicate with you about MPR, APMG entities, and its sponsors. You may opt-out at any time clicking the unsubscribe link at the bottom of any email communication. View our Privacy Policy.
Sign in to your profile
Forgot Password?
New to MPR News?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Reset Password

Enter the username on file and we'll send you a code to reset your password.

Still require assistance or not sure what your User Name is?
Welcome back
to news
for you
Email Verification

A verification code has been emailed to

Still awaiting the code?
COVID-19
MPR News Staff

Minnesota allows reopening of day programs for people with disabilities

Go Deeper.

Create an account or log in to save stories.

Like this?

Thanks for liking this story! We have added it to a list of your favorite stories.

State officials are reopening some key programs that serve Minnesotans with disabilities.

Starting Monday, people who live in group homes and other congregate care facilities can once again attend day service programs. Many of those programs have been closed for months due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The Minnesota Department of Human Services announced the move Sunday, along with new guidelines for providers. Under the reopening guidelines, providers are required to have a COVID-19 preparedness plan to protect participants and staff.

“Nothing is more important to us than the health of all Minnesotans – including emotional and social health,” Human Services Commissioner Jodi Harpstead said in a news release. “My team and I have remained focused on turning the dial, as much as is prudent given the health risks, to get these providers back in service of the people they support.”

People will not be allowed to attend a day service program if they have had exposure to COVID-19 in the previous 14 days.

DHS said there are about 300 day service program locations in Minnesota, serving about 6,000 people a month. Some had offered remote services over the past few months.

State officials had previously allowed the partial reopening of in-person programs, for people who live in their own homes. The latest change reopens the programs to residents of group homes and other facilities.

“Recent decreases in COVID-19 cases in group homes across the state, as well as Minnesota Department of Health guidance, helped us decide that this is the right time to reopen services for all,” Harpstead said.

State officials noted that people with disabilities "have the right to make an informed choice about whether they want to return to a day service facility," based on underlying health conditions and other factors.

DHS said remote services will continue for people not able to attend in-person programs.