Service Resource Library
Generic Resources Overview
Generic resources are public or community-based programs that provide services and supports to the general public, including individuals with developmental disabilities. These resources are often the first source of support for needs such as income assistance, health care, food, housing, and basic living expenses. By law, San Andreas Regional Center (SARC) must use generic resources whenever they are available and appropriate before authorizing Regional Center–funded services.
How to Get Help
Talk with your Service Coordinator about accessing generic resources
Many generic resources require applications and ongoing eligibility reviews
How the Regional Center Helps
SARC supports individuals and families by providing guidance, coordination, and advocacy to help them access generic resources, including:
Explaining what generic resources are available
Assisting with referrals and applications when appropriate
Coordinating services through the Individual Program Plan (IPP)
Working with community agencies to reduce barriers to access
The Regional Center does not replace or duplicate services provided by generic resources.
Your Service Coordinator
Each individual is assigned a Service Coordinator who can help families understand and access generic resources. The Service Coordinator:
Identifies appropriate generic resources based on individual needs
Provides information and referrals to community programs
Supports families in navigating application processes
Coordinates generic resources within the IPP
Helps address barriers to access when possible
Important to Know
By law, SARC cannot pay for services that generic resources are responsible for providing
Eligibility rules, applications, and benefits are determined by each generic resource agency
Families may need to apply, renew, or recertify benefits regularly
Generic resources may change over time based on income, age, or household size
Common Generic Resources
Generic resources may include, but are not limited to:
Social Security (SSI and SSDI)
Medi-Cal and other health insurance programs
Healthy Families / Children’s Health Coverage Programs
CalFresh (food assistance)
Women, Infants, and Children (WIC)
Food banks and community food pantries
In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS)
County mental health services
Housing assistance and rental support programs
Energy assistance and utility support programs
Every Plan Is Different
Use of generic resources depends on the individual’s age, income, household, and needs
Two individuals with similar needs may qualify for different generic resources
Ongoing Review and Coordination
Access to generic resources is reviewed regularly through the IPP process. As an individual’s needs or circumstances change, the Service Coordinator works with the individual and family to identify new resources or adjust existing supports.
Generic Resources Services
Service Coordination
A Service Coordinator works with the family to assess needs, develop the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP), and connect them to services.
Developmental Assessment & Evaluation
Evaluations to understand the child’s strengths, needs, and developmental delays.
Speech and Language Therapy
Support for communication, understanding language, and expressive speech.
Occupational Therapy (OT)
Helps with fine motor skills, sensory processing, feeding, and daily activities.
Physical Therapy (PT)
Supports gross motor development such as crawling, walking, balance, and strength.
Infant Development Services / Early Intervention
In-home or community-based developmental support focusing on learning through play and routines.
Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) / Behavioral Intervention
When appropriate, to support developmental skills and reduce challenging behaviors.
Family Training, Counseling, and Home Visits
Education and coaching to help families support their child’s development in everyday activities.
Assistive Technology
Devices or tools that help a child communicate or participate more fully in daily life.
Socialization or Parent–Child Groups
Opportunities for children and caregivers to learn, play, and connect with other families.
Transition Planning
Support to help families prepare for the transition from Early Start to school district services at age