DSG knows that legislative advocacy is critical to protecting the rights of our members. We believe building strong relationships and working with elected officials will allow DSG to have a strong voice on issues which impact people with Down syndrome. DSG frequently partners with other Down syndrome and disability organizaitons to address local, regional and national legislation. We are active in KS, MO and at the federal level in developing our legislative platform. We believe that the best way to pass and sustain bills is for our members to take action and contact their representatives about the issues they care about. Learn more about how you can be a legislative advocate.

Hospital supporter sign on letters 

Hospital and healthcare office visitor policies and protocols have changed in recent months with the spread of COVID 19. Medical facilities are now dramatically restricting the presence of visitors who would normally be supporting patients. While safety concerns are of the utmost importance, these policies could pose serious challenges to our members with Down syndrome.

DSG joined over 100 other disability organizations across the USA signing on to letters asking hospitals as well as state and national leadership to ensure that visitor policies include reasonable modifications for people with disabilities who need or benefit from the physical presence of a support person in order to ensure equal access to health care. Please contact DSG if your loved one with Down syndrome is denied the presence of a support person during any medical appointments or hospitalizations.

Sign on letter to governors April 2020

Sign on letter to hospital administrators April 2020

COVID cAREs package request for hcbs funding 

DSG worked collaboratively with other Down syndrome and disability organizations to request funding for Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) be added to the next COVID Cares package being considered. A majority of adults with Down syndrome receive vital supports and services through HCBS funding and many providers have struggled to maintain their staffing and programming during the pandemic. Increasing HCBS funding will help ensure our most vulnerable citizens are provided the supports they need to live in their communities. 

Missouri Coalition Letter to Senator Blunt