What exactly is CFSS?
Community First Services and Supports (CFSS) is a Minnesota program designed to offer more choice and control for individuals who need assistance with daily tasks. It allows you to lead an independent life in your own home by providing the resources to hire support workers and purchase life-enhancing technology.
Will hiring Awcuvix reduce the number of hours I have for my support workers?
No. The Budget Model Advantage: In the Budget Model, you have the flexibility to invest in tools that make your life easier. Think of it as an ‘Upgrade’ to your home that works alongside your team, not in place of them.
Dedicated Training Funds: The state provides a specific Worker Training and Development budget that is separate from your personal care hours. If you don’t use it for training, it expires. It cannot be used to pay for more hours.
Increasing Efficiency: Our Environmental Support is designed to make your home safer. By using the ‘Goods and Services’ budget for technology, you reduce the risk of emergencies, ensuring your care hours are used for quality support rather than basic environmental tasks.
Can I just use my ‘Worker Training’ budget to pay my worker more per hour instead?
No. The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) has strict rules on how these funds are used. The Worker Training and Development budget is specifically for hiring a “Supervising Professional” or trainer (like Awcuvix) to educate your staff. If this budget is not used for training by the end of your service year, the funds return to the state. They cannot be converted into hourly wages for your workers
How is CFSS different from the old PCA program?
CFSS is much more flexible. Unlike the previous model, it allows you to use a dedicated budget for worker training and to purchase “goods and services” (like assistive technology) that help you stay independent. It also expands who can be a paid support worker for you.
Why should I work with Awcuvix for my CFSS journey?
While your agency or the state manages the paperwork, Awcuvix acts as your “Digital Bridge.” we specialize in the parts of CFSS that often get overlooked: expert training for your workers and the setup of life-changing assistive technology. We ensure you aren’t just “getting by,” but truly thriving.
Can my family members be my paid support workers?
Yes! One of the biggest updates in CFSS is that spouses and parents of minors can now be hired and paid to provide support. This ensures that the people who know you best are the ones helping you thrive.
Who is eligible for CFSS?
CFSS is available to individuals living in Minnesota who are enrolled in Medical Assistance (MA) or a waiver program and require assistance with activities of daily living. Eligibility is determined through a functional assessment.
My worker is worried about their paycheck. How does this help them?
When you hire Awcuvix to train your team, your worker gains professional “Tech-Supported Care” skills at no cost to them. This makes their job easier, reduces their physical “heavy lifting” (through voice-controlled environments), and increases their value as a professional caregiver. We are here to support your team, not replace them.
How do I start the process of getting CFSS?
The process begins with a MnCHOICES assessment. A specialist will visit with you to discuss your daily routines and determine the level of support that best fits your needs.
What is a “Consultation Services” provider?
In CFSS, you will work with a Consultation Services provider. They help you write your service plan, manage your budget, and understand your rights. They work alongside you to ensure your plan reflects your personal goals.
Can I change my mind about which model I use?
Yes. CFSS is designed to be flexible. If you start with the Agency Model and decide later that you want more control through the Budget Model (or vice versa), you can work with your consultation provider to make that change.
