How to apply for Virginia Brain Injury Services (DARS community brain injury programs)

Who it's for

Virginia funds nine community-based brain injury programs that serve people living with a brain injury and their families. Services include resource coordination (connecting you and your family to brain injury resources), clubhouse and day programs, and case management to help you navigate services. Services are often low- or no-cost, but what is offered varies by locality. Find the program that serves your city or county on the DARS Brain Injury Services page, or call the Brain Injury Association of Virginia helpline at 800-444-6443 for information and referrals.

What you'll need

• No documents required to start — contact the brain injury program that serves your locality

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Virginia Brain Injury Services (DARS community brain injury programs). I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need no documents required to start — contact the brain injury program that serves your locality — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Find the community brain injury program that serves your city or county on the DARS Brain Injury Services page, or call 800-444-6443 for information and referrals.
2. Contact the program that serves your locality to ask about available brain injury services and supports.
3. Apply online or by phone, following the instructions from the local brain injury program.
4. Share basic information about your situation and the type of help you need. No documents are required to get started.
5. Ask which services are offered in your area, such as resource coordination, clubhouse or day programs, or case management.

What to expect: After you apply or make contact, the local brain injury program will tell you what support it can offer in your area and what next steps to take. Services vary by locality and are often low- or no-cost. This program provides connection and support services, not cash benefits. Renewal is ongoing, so ask the program whether you need to check in or update your information to keep getting help.

Renewals

ongoing