Consumer Support Grant (CSG)

The Consumer Support Grant (CSG) is a state-funded alternative to the following Medicaid home care services: home health aide, personal care assistance and/or private duty nursing. CSG staff will provide CSG information sessions, review and approve plans, ensure that monies are distributed and monitor for health and safety. They will also review and renew the grant or plan annually.

More control and responsibility over their support services compared to traditional services, flexibility in purchasing services from any person they know and trust, the ability to determine when and how the services will be provided, and better access to culturally appropriate care and traditional services.

Who is Eligible?

To be eligible for a Consumer Support Grant you must:

be able to direct and manage your own care or designate a responsible party to do so on your behalf
have functional limitations that require ongoing supports to live at home
live in a natural home setting. (see definition in the frequently asked questions)
be receiving services through one of the following Medical Assistance home care programs:
- Personal Care Attendant Services
- Home Health Aide Services
- Private Duty Nursing Services
- Home and Community-based Waiver Services

The Consumer Support Grant is an alternative to these programs. When you choose the Consumer Support Grant, you will not be able to receive these services at the same time. If you receive the Family Support Grant and meet the above eligibility criteria, the Consumer Support Grant can provide you with additional funds.

How Does The Program Work?

If you choose to participate, you will develop a Support and Expenditure Plan with the County. The plan will specify the annual budget and the supports that you expect to purchase within the budget. It is expected that you or the person you designate to be the responsible party will arrange and purchase your own supports from friends, family or others you trust.

If you are eligible and are interested in receiving a Consumer Support Grant, contact Hennepin County Initial Consultation at 612-348-4500 or register for a Community Informational Session for Seniors and People with Disabilities.

What Can the Consumer Grant Be Used For?

The Consumer Support Grant must be used for additional costs related to caring for you at home. It is not for normal living costs, such as rent and utilities. Examples of supports that can be purchased are respite care, chore or homemaker services, personal care attendant services, adaptive aids, modifications to your home, special diets, day care, etc.

From whom can I buy these Supports?

The grant funds can be used to purchase needed supports from friends, family, neighbors or any other responsible person you trust.

How will the grant affect my eligibility for other programs?

The grant money itself is not considered income for the purposes of determining eligibility for public assistance.When you choose to receive the grant, you will not be eligible to receive Medical Assistance Home Care Services or Home and Community-based Waiver Services. Money paid to caregivers is considered income. This may affect eligibility or fees for income-based programs.