Family resources
Places to start when you are trying to work out what your family is entitled to and who to ask.
Regional centers
California's regional centers coordinate services for people with developmental disabilities, including respite authorizations. Your service coordinator is usually the right first call.
Find your regional center (opens in a new tab)Department of Developmental Services
The state department that oversees the regional center system, including consumer rights, appeals and complaints.
DDS website (opens in a new tab)Appeals, complaints and comments
If a decision about services does not seem right, you have a formal route. We will help you use it.
How to file (opens in a new tab)Disability Rights California
Free legal advocacy for Californians with disabilities, covering services, education, housing and rights.
Disability Rights California (opens in a new tab)Family Resource Centers Network
Parent-to-parent support across California for families of children with disabilities, including early intervention.
Find a family resource center (opens in a new tab)In-Home Supportive Services
County-administered support that can pay for in-home help for eligible residents. Separate from regional center respite.
About IHSS (opens in a new tab)Looking for urgent help?
Crisis and emergency numbers are on the emergency resources page.