The Family Support Council, Inc.

P.O. Box 1707, Dalton, Georgia  30722-1707

Serving Whitfield and Murray Counties in Northwest Georgia

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Resources for Families of Children With Special Needs

           "Our children are rare and beautiful blooms, deserving of respect and opportunity."

Text Box: Don't be... limited by what we know now thinking "I am only a mom" (or dad, or brother, or sister).    

If we can IMAGINE it and we PUSH for it, we will get it!                 

 

Links: 

 

 

Call 706- 272-7919 for answers

to questions like these:

 

Are you getting all the benefits you are eligible for?

What is a "deeming waiver?"                                                                                   

Which local doctors accept Medicaid?

How can I find another parent with these same challenges? 

Is there a support group locally?

Where can I get free adaptive toys, puzzles, and materials?                                                                                                             

And more...

 

Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities for Georgia

Our Vision:  We see a state in which all persons are included in all facets of community life, have choices while exercising control over their lives, and are encouraged to achieve their maximum potential.

The Family Support Council will strive to provide information, support, and training to the community at-large (Whitfield and Murray Counties in Northwest Georgia).

The Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities promotes activities and creates opportunities which enable people with developmental disabilities to exercise their right to live, learn, work, and play in the place and manner of their choice

 

 

 

 

 

 

Advocacy:        "Ask:  How should it be?  Then:  Work to make it real."

Tips on Communicating with Legislators

1. Develop a relationship. The key to grassroots advocacy is developing long-term relationships with your legislators.

2. Be optimistic and upbeat.

3. Be specific. Keep it simple. Try to discuss one issue at a time.

4. "Personalize" the issue. For example, if talking about funding for community based services, describe why the issue is important to YOU and your community. Use personal stories to inform the legislators- they will be remembered.

5. Don't be argumentative. Don’t be defensive.

6.  Remember there is strength in numbers. Work in collaboration with others whenever possible.

7. Provide good info. Give facts. Do not give a lot of materials. Fact sheets, brochures and personal letters are good.

8. It is very important that the legislators can picture a face to the issue. A great idea is to wear a button with your child or family member picture. Also, if you give or mail the legislators any letter, have at the top of the letter a picture of your child, your name and contact information.

9.  Volunteer to be a resource contact. Legislators will always welcome a constituent who is knowledgeable on a specific issue and is willing to be a local resource contact.

10. Most important- Always thank them and follow up with a thank you letter.

A great website for families to find out who are their local and federal legislators is www.vote-smart.org. Families just need to look on left side and enter their zip code. There are instructions if they do not know their 9 digit zip code.

 

 

Following is a list of resources for those with Developmental Disabilities in the Northwest Georgia area:

 

Audiology

 

Program Name Children's Medical Services
Address 100 West Walnut Ave., Suite 92, Dalton, GA 30720-8402
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-272-2219
Fax # 706-275-0244
Service Description * Children's medical services
* Clinics for diabetes, hearing, orthopedics, seizures
Conditions Served Developmental Delay; Diabetes; Hearing Impaired, Deaf; Hearing Impaired, Partial; Orthopedic; Seizure Disorder
Counties Served Cherokee; Fannin; Gilmer; Murray; Pickens; Whitfield
Ages Served Under 3 years; 3 to 5 years; 6 to 11 years; 12 to 18 years; 19 to 21 years
Payment Types Charges For Services; Some Free Services
Interpreters Spanish
E-Mail ptelrod@gdph.state.ga.us

 
Program Name Looper Speech & Hearing Center
Address 1011 Professional Blvd., Dalton, GA 30720
County Whitfield
Phone # 706/226-4623
Fax # 706/278-0580
Service Description * Audiology services
* Speech and language therapy services
Conditions Served Developmental Delay; Hearing Impaired, Deaf; Hearing Impaired, Partial; Language Disorder, Aphasia; Language Disorder, Unspecified; Speech Delay; Speech Disorder (Developmental Articul.)
Counties Served Whitfield; Gordon; Walker; Dade; Murray; Catoosa; Chattooga
Ages Served All Ages
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; Accepts Insurance; Charges For Services; Other Payment Method (Medicare)
Interpreters Sign Language

 
Program Name Northwest Georgia Hearing Center
Address 1436 Broadrick Dr., Suite A, Dalton, GA 30721
County Whitfield
Phone # 706/226-2142
Fax # 706/226-1771
Service Description * Provide comprehensive audio logical evaluations
* Provide aural habilitative services
* Provide rehabilitative services
* Dispense hearing aids
* ENG balance testing
* Assistive listening devices
* ABR for adults
* ORE testing for babies
Conditions Served Hearing Impaired, Deaf; Hearing Impaired, Partial
Counties Served Whitfield; Catoosa; Murray; Gordon; Dade; Walker; Chattooga
Ages Served All Ages
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; Accepts Insurance; Charges For Services
Interpreters Sign Language; Spanish

Medical Services for Children
Program Name Murray County Health Dept.
Address 709 Old Dalton-Ellijay Road

Chatsworth, GA 30705
County Murray
Phone # 706-695-4585
Service Description Children’s medical services, immunizations
Conditions Served All
Counties Served Murray
Ages Served All
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; all other payment types
Interpreters Spanish

 
Program Name Children's Medical Services
Address 100 West Walnut Ave., Suite 92, Dalton, GA 30720-8402
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-272-2219
Fax # 706-275-0244
Service Description * Children's medical services
* Clinics for diabetes, hearing, orthopedics, seizures
Conditions Served Developmental Delay; Diabetes; Hearing Impaired, Deaf; Hearing Impaired, Partial; Orthopedic; Seizure Disorder
Counties Served Cherokee; Fannin; Gilmer; Murray; Pickens; Whitfield
Ages Served Under 3 years; 3 to 5 years; 6 to 11 years; 12 to 18 years; 19 to 21 years
Payment Types Charges For Services; Some Free Services
Interpreters Spanish
E-Mail ptelrod@gdph.state.ga.us

 
Program Name Genetics Clinic
Address Northwest Georgia District Health, 100 West Walnut, Suite 92, Dalton, GA 30720
County Whitfield
Phone # 706/272-2219
Toll Free # 888/276-1558
Fax # 706/275-0244
Service Description * Genetic evaluation services
* Genetics counseling services
Conditions Served All
Counties Served Cherokee; Fannin; Gilmer; Murray; Pickens; Whitfield
Ages Served All Ages
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; Accepts Insurance; Sliding Scale; Charges For Services
Interpreters Spanish

Program Name Right From The Start Medicaid
Address 803 E Morris Street, Dalton, Georgia 30720
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-272-2439
Fax # 706-272-2446
Service Description *Assess for Medicaid eligibility
Conditions Served All
Counties Served Whitfield
Ages Served Birth to 21
Payment Types None
Interpreters Spanish
Contact Person Grace Skipper, RSM MES Specialist
Program Name Dr. Rami Azzouz, M.D.
Address 702 Mineral Springs Road, Dalton, GA 30720-5058
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-279-1994
Service Description Children’s Medical Services
Conditions Served All
Counties Served All
Ages Served Children through age 18
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; all other payment types
Interpreters Spanish

 

Program Name Dr. Ayman Rifai, M.D.
Address 702 Mineral Springs Road

Dalton, GA 30720-5058
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-279-1994
Service Description Children’s Medical Services
Conditions Served All
Counties Served All
Ages Served Children through age 18
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; all other payment types
Interpreters Spanish

 
Program Name Whitfield County Health Dept. Children’s Center
Address 808 Professional Blvd.

Dalton, GA 30720-2536
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-226-2621
Service Description Children’s Medical Services; Immunizations
Conditions Served All
Counties Served All
Ages Served Birth to 21
Payment Types Accept Medicaid for immunizations; accepts Medicaid only if on provider card for physicals and sick visits; all other payment types
Interpreters Spanish

 
Program Name John Chung, M.D. - Dermatology
Address 1107 Memorial Drive, Suite 201

Dalton, GA 30720-8662
Phone # 706-277-7311
Service Description Dermatology services for all ages
Conditions Served All
Counties Served All
Ages Served All

 

Program Name Teen Resource Center
Address 111 Bryant Crossing (Bryman’s Plaza)

Dalton, GA 30722
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-278-3100
Service Description Family planning; STD exams; Pregnancy tests; Stress management; anger management; HIV program; Iron checks; Pap smears; Pelvic exams; birth control; counseling services
Conditions Served ALL
Counties Served ALL
Ages Served Ages 13-19
Payment Types Accepts Peachcare; free services otherwise
Interpreters Spanish

 

Program Name Mednow, Inc.
Address 2705 Airport Road

Dalton, GA 30720
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-275-4444
Service Description Medical services for all ages
Conditions Served All
Counties Served All
Ages Served All ages
Payment Types Accepts Medicare, not Medicaid; some insurance, other payment methods

 
Program Name Charles Callaway, O.D. - Optometrist
Address 2120A Hwy 76 Cohutta Place

Chatsworth, GA 30705
County Murray
Phone # 706-226-0568
Service Description Eye exams for all ages
Conditions Served All
Counties Served All
Ages Served All ages
Payment Types Does not accept Medicaid; some insurance, other payment methods

Physical Therapy
Program Name Glenda Bowman
Address 711 Shields Road

Dalton, GA 30720-5091
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-278-3839
Service Description Medical services for children
Conditions Served All
Counties Served All
Ages Served 18 and under
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; some insurance, other payment methods

Medical Services for Adults

Program Name Mohammad Khan, M.D. – Internal Medicine
Address 1308 Memorial Drive

Dalton, GA 30720-2529
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-279-1757
Service Description Medical services for adults
Conditions Served All
Counties Served All
Ages Served Adults over age 20
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; some insurance; all other payment methods
Interpreters None

 

Program Name Therese Maxwell, M.D.
Address 1506 Chattanooga Road, Suite D

Dalton, GA 30720-8378
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-226-0508
Service Description Medical services for adults
Conditions Served All
Counties Served All
Ages Served Adults over age 18, depending on case
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; some insurance, other payment methods
Interpreters None

 

Program Name David Dennard, M.D.
Address 1007 Professional Blvd.

Dalton, GA 30720-2506
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-278-3430
Service Description Medical services for adults
Conditions Served All
Counties Served All
Ages Served Adults over age 18
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; some insurance; other payment methods
Interpreters Spanish

 

Program Name Cornerstone Medical Group – Internal Medicine
Address 1109 Burleyson Drive 1107 Memorial Drive, Suite 200

Dalton, GA 30720-2510 Dalton, GA 30720-8662
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-226-3139
Service Description Medical services for adults
Conditions Served All
Counties Served All
Ages Served Adults over age 18
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; some insurance; other payment methods
Interpreters None

 

Program Name Mark L. Gravelee, M.D. - Surgeon
Address 1107 Broadrick Drive

P.O. Box 987

Dalton, GA 30722-0987
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-278-0351
Service Description Surgical services
Conditions Served All
Counties Served All
Ages Served All
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; some insurance; other payment methods
Interpreters Spanish

 

Program Name Eric Calfee, M.D. – OB/GYN
Address 1105 Burleyson Road

Dalton, GA 30720-3017
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-278-4640
Service Description OB/GYN services for females by referral only
Conditions Served OB/GYN
Counties Served All
Ages Served All ages by referral
Payment Types Accepts GA Medicaid only; some insurance; other payment methods
Interpreters Spanish

 
Program Name Brian Glass, M.D. – OB/GYN
Address 1525 Chattanooga Road

Dalton, GA 30720-8379
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-226-3373
Service Description OB/GYN services for females
Conditions Served OB/GYN
Counties Served All
Ages Served All ages; new patients need referral
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; some insurance; other payment methods
Interpreters Spanish

 
Program Name John Chung, M.D. - Dermatology
Address 1107 Memorial Drive, Suite 201

Dalton, GA 30720-8662
Phone # 706-277-7311
Service Description Dermatology services for all ages
Conditions Served All
Counties Served All
Ages Served All
Payment Types  

 
Program Name Santa Rosa Clinic
Address 1217 Memorial Drive, Suite 8

Dalton, GA 30720
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-259-5579
Service Description Medical services for adults, will make referrals to specialists
Conditions Served All
Counties Served All
Ages Served 18 and over
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; sliding scale; some insurance, other payment methods

 
Program Name Mednow, Inc.
Address 2705 Airport Road

Dalton, GA 30720
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-275-4444
Service Description Medical services for all ages
Conditions Served All
Counties Served All
Ages Served All ages
Payment Types Accepts Medicare, not Medicaid; some insurance, other payment methods

Dental Services
Program Name Pat R. Little – Dalton Dental Services
Address 1020 Chattanooga Ave., Suite D

Dalton, GA 30720
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-277-1671
Fax # 706-277-1651
Service Description Provides dental services for children ages 6-20 years
Conditions Served No developmental limitations, but also no sedation so child must be cooperative
Counties Served All
Ages Served 6-20 years
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; all other payment types
Interpreters Spanish

 

Program Name Whitfield County Health Department
Address 808 Professional Blvd, Dalton, GA 30720
Phone # (706) 281-2208 children
(706) 281-2364 adults
Service Description *Cleanings

*Sealants

*Fillings

*Extractions
Hours Mon-Thur 8:00-6:00 ; Fri 8:30-2:00 (children)

Thursday evenings Adult clinic (emergency extractions only)
Counties Served Whitfield Co residents ONLY.
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid and Medicare; other payment methods

 
Program Name Murray County Health Department
Address 709 Old Dalton Ellijay Rd
Phone # 706-695-4585
Service Description *Cleanings

*Sealants

*Fillings

*Extractions
Ages Served 1-18 years old
Counties Served Murray Co. Only
Payment Types Accepts PeachCare, Medicaid and Medicare; other payment methods
Program Name Calhoun Dental Clinic

Dr. Scott C. Parmiter & Associates
Address P.O. Box 938, Calhoun, Georgia 30703-0938
Phone # 706-629-8822
Service Description *Cleanings

*Sealants

*Fillings

*Extractions

Counties Served Gordon, Whitfield, and Murray
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; other payment methods
Interpreters Spanish

Adult Day Programs
Program Name Murray County Developmental Center
Address 735 West Chestnut Street, Post Office Box 368, Chatsworth, GA 30705
County Murray
Phone # 706-695-4571
Fax # 706-517-1933
Service Description * Day Support
* Day Habilitation
* Supported Employment
Conditions Served Developmental Delay; Mental Retardation
Counties Served Murray; Whitfield
Ages Served 21 to 59 years; Over 59 years (Ages 22-up)
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; Sliding Scale; Charges For Services
E-Mail mcdc@alltell.net

 
Program Name Cheerhaven
Address 2738 Underwood Road, , Dalton, GA 30721
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-278-8143
Fax # 706-272-7648
Service Description * Center provides adult day services, sheltered employment, and community outreach programs
* Respite Care Services
* Supported employment for adults with mental retardation and development delays
* All other services must be residents of Whitfield county

* Music Therapy
Conditions Served Autism; Behavior Disorder; Developmental Delay; Mental Retardation
Counties Served Whitfield
Ages Served 19 to 21 years; 21 to 59 years; Over 59 years (19+ /out of high school)
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; Some Free Services
Interpreters Sign Language; Spanish
E-Mail cheerioe@altel.net

 
Program Name Highland Rivers Center
Address 203 West Gordon Street, , Dalton, GA 30720
County Whitfield
Phone # 706/270-5050 ext 104
Fax # 706/270-5052
Service Description * Day training
* Support and/or supervision in a community setting

* Supported employment

* Counseling and psychological services
Conditions Served Developmental Delay; Mental Illness; Mental Retardation
Counties Served Cherokee; Fannin; Gilmer; Murray; Pickens; Whitfield
Ages Served 12 to 18 years; 19 to 21 years; 21 to 59 years; Over 59 years (18 yrs & older)
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; Accepts Insurance; Sliding Scale; Charges For Services
 

 

  
Program Name Highland Rivers Center/Developmental Services
Address 407 North Thornton Avenue, Suite 4, Dalton, GA 30720
County Whitfield
Phone # 706/270-5050
Fax # 706-270-5052
Service Description * Offers consultation, evaluation, linkage to resources

* Residential program/ Personal support
* Teaches clients to live outside institutions
* Linked with respite services
* Day program for adults with Mental Retardation
Conditions Served Developmental Delay; Mental Retardation
Counties Served Cherokee; Gilmer; Murray; Pickens; Whitfield
Ages Served All Ages
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; Accepts Insurance; Sliding Scale; Charges For Services; Other Payment Method (Medicare)
Interpreters Sign Language; Spanish

 

Program Name Murray County Developmental Center
Address 735 West Chestnut Street, Post Office Box 368, Chatsworth, GA 30705
County Murray
Phone # 706-695-4571
Fax # 706-517-1933
Service Description * Day Support
* Day Habilitation
* Supported Employment
Conditions Served Developmental Delay; Mental Retardation
Counties Served Murray; Whitfield
Ages Served 21 to 59 years; Over 59 years (Ages 22-up)
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; Sliding Scale; Charges For Services
E-Mail mcdc@alltell.net

Early Intervention Public Programs
Program Name Babies Can't Wait/Early Intervention Program
Address 100 West Walnut, Suite 92, Dalton, GA 30720
County Whitfield
Phone # 706/272-2219
Toll Free # 888/276-1558
Fax # 706/272-2266
Service Description * Located in the Children's Medical Services Building
* Speech/language assessment
* Infant development program
* Physical and occupational therapy
* Case management
* Support group
* Early Intervention Team determines eligibility
* No fee for Evaluation, Assessment, IFSP and case management
Conditions Served Developmental Delay
Counties Served Whitfield; Cherokee; Fannin; Gilmer; Murray; Pickens
Ages Served Under 3 years
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; Accepts Insurance; Sliding Scale; Some Free Services
Interpreters No Interpreters Available
E-Mail alewis@ellijay.com

Occupational Therapy Services
Program Name Bradley Rehabilitation/Bradley Wellness Center
Address 1225 Broadrick Drive, , Dalton, GA 30722
County Whitfield
Phone # 706/272-6199
Fax # 706/272-6291
Service Description * Bradley Rehab Center is in the same building as Bradley Wellness Center
* Both are affiliated with Hamilton Medical Center

* Offers adult and pediatric occupational therapy and physical therapy
* Offers nutritional counseling
* Classes and fitness programs
* Clients can use the Whitfield Public Transportation System
* An outpatient rehabilitation center
Conditions Served All
Counties Served Gordon; Murray; Whitfield
Ages Served All Ages
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; Accepts Insurance; Charges For Services
Interpreters Spanish; French

 

Program Name Hamilton Home Health Care
Address Hamilton Medical Center, P.O. Box 1168, Dalton, GA 30722-1168
County Whitfield
Phone # 706/226-2848
Fax # 706/278-4973
Service Description Nursing and home health services; Home health aide services; Personal support services; Medical social work services; * Maternal/child programs; Behavioral health services; Occupational therapy services; Physical therapy services; * Speech and language therapy services; Hospice program provides nurses, patient/family education, pharmacy services, supplies & equipment, pain & symptom control, and bereavement support for families and friends
Conditions Served Developmental Delay; Language Disorder, Aphasia; Language Disorder; Speech Delay; Speech Disorder
Counties Served Whitfield; Gordon; Murray
Ages Served All Ages
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; Accepts Insurance; Charges For Services; Other Payment Method (Medicare, private pay)
Interpreters Spanish

 

Program Name T.I.P.S. For Children, Inc.
Address 711 Shield Road, , Dalton, GA 30720
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-278-3839
Fax # 706-259-7432
Service Description * Occupational, Speech, and Physical therapies
* Special instruction
* Serves birth - 21 and some developmentally delayed adults
Conditions Served Developmental Delay
Counties Served Catoosa; Gordon; Murray; Whitfield
Ages Served All Ages (see notes)
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; Accepts Insurance; Other Payment Method (BCW)
Interpreters Sign Language; Spanish
E-Mail tips@dalton.net
Website http://www.tipsforchildren.com

Parenting Skills--Disability Focused
Program Name Family Support Council, Inc.
Address Post Office Box 1707, 1529 Waring Road, Dalton, GA 30721-1707
County Whitfield
Phone # 706/272-7919
Toll Free # 800/308-1825
Fax # 706/275-6542
Service Description The Family Support Council links families to a number of different programs.

*Camp AIM – a camp for children ages 5-14 with abuse issues.
* Child Care Resource and Referral for NW GA (covers 15 counties in NW GA)
* Three weekly sessions of a support group for parents called "Parent Talk"
* Sandra Kirk Martin Family Resource Room--collection of books/videos on parenting that may be borrowed free of charge.
* The Toy Box -- toy lending library
* Healthy Families -- education & support to first time parents, through child's 4th birthday
* Parent Education Program -- offers parenting classes. Free childcare is provided
* Success by Six -- helps families prepare their children for school.
* School Outreach program -- home and school-based support for families of children in grades K-1

*"Together We Can"/Teens Unlimited-- support for families with disabilities and community inclusion of individuals with disabilities
* Kids on the Block -- Students learn about the prevention of sexual and physical abuse
* Fatherhood Program
* First Steps-Trained volunteers visit first-time moms at Hamilton Medical Center to offer support, educational materials, and community resource lists. The volunteers maintain contact by phone or letter for 3 months
Conditions Served Abuse, Emotional; Abuse, Physical; Abuse, Sexual
Counties Served Murray; Whitfield
Ages Served All Ages, Under 3 years; 3 to 5 years; 6 to 11 years; 12 to 18 years; 19 to 21 years; 21 to 59 years; Over 59 years (parents, families)
Payment Types Some Free Services
Interpreters Spanish
E-Mail a_elainebutler@hotmail.com
Website www.familysupportcouncil.org

Preschools
Program Name Saint Marks Preschool
Address 901 West Emory, P O B 852, Dalton, GA 30722-0852
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-278-8857
Fax # 706-279-2698
Service Description * Inclusive Preschool for typical children and 1/3 special needs
Conditions Served Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder; Autism; Autistic Spectrum Disorder; Developmental Delay; Down Syndrome
Counties Served Gordon; Murray; Whitfield
Ages Served 3 to 5 years (2-4 yrs old)
Payment Types Charges For Services; Some Free Services (Scholarship)
Interpreters No Interpreters Available

 
Program Name Better Beginnings – Early HeadStart
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-278-9515
Service Description Free daycare; early childcare classes; GED classes on site; transportation for expectant mothers to doctor appointments or childcare classes
Conditions Served All
Counties Served Whitfield
Ages Served 0-3 years for daycare; all ages of parents for classes
Payment Types N/A

 
Program Name Dalton Preschool
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-278-0811
Service Description Pre-K only; child must be 4 years old by September 1st
Conditions Served All
Counties Served Whitfield
Ages Served 4-5 years
Payment Types No cost if attending between 8am-3pm

 
Program Name Friendship House
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-278-8012
Service Description Daycare services; must complete application; waiting list for children 6 months to 1 year
Conditions Served All
Counties Served Whitfield
Ages Served 6 wks – 5 years
Payment Types Tuition based on ability to pay, other payment methods possible

 
Program Name Whitfield/Dalton Daycare
Address 515 South Pentz Street, P.O. Box 1985, Dalton, Georgia 30722-1985
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-278-8991
Service Description Childcare for ages 15 months to 7 years; childcare available Monday through Friday from 6:30am to 5:45pm; waiting list for children up to 3 years old
Conditions Served All
Counties Served Whitfield
Ages Served 15 months – 7 years
Payment Types Sliding scale, other payment methods possible

 
Program Name Head Start
Address Murray

Chatsworth - 1004 Green Road, Chatsworth GA 30705

Whitfield

Varnell - 3900 Cleveland Road, Dalton GA 30721

Valley Point - 3798 South Dixie Road, Dalton GA 30721

Westside - 1815 Utility Road, Rocky Face GA 30740
County Murray & Whitfield
Phone # Chatsworth- 706-695-8608

Varnell- 706-694-8228

Valley Point- 706-277-1271

Westside- 706-673-2542
Service Description *For preschool children from low-income families

*Free medical care

*Free dental care

*Healthy meals and snacks
Conditions Served All
Ages Served Most are between 3-5 years old

Psychiatric Services
Program Name Highland Rivers Center/Adult Mental Health
Address 1622 Hickory Street, Suite 304, Dalton, GA 30720
County Whitfield
Phone # 706/270-5005
Fax # 706/270-5134
Service Description * County Mental Health Department
* Counseling and psychology services
* Psychiatry services
* Family, individual, and group counseling services
* Marital counseling services
* Alcohol/drug abuse counseling services
* Emergency services
Conditions Served Behavior Disorder; Drug Dependence; Emotional Problems; Mental Illness; Substance Abuse
Counties Served Whitfield
Ages Served 19 to 21 years; 21 to 59 years; Over 59 years
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; Accepts Insurance; Sliding Scale; Charges For Services; Other Payment Method (Medicare); Some Free Services
Interpreters Other(Greek)

 
Program Name Bi-Polar Support Group
Address Christ the King Lutheran Church

623 South Thornton Ave.
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-217-8011
Service Description Support group for individuals with bi-polar disorder and their families. Group meets Mondays at 7:00pm. There is parking in the back and you can enter from the back.
Conditions Served Bi-Polar disorder
Counties Served All
Ages Served All
Payment Types Free
Interpreters N/A

 
Program Name ADAC
Address 900 Shugart Road

Dalton, GA 30722
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-270-5100
Service Description Psychiatric services; crisis intervention; outpatient drug treatment and detoxification

For children and adolescents, call 706-270-5094 or 706-270-5047
Conditions Served Drug related illnesses, crisis intervention
Counties Served Whitfield; Murray
Ages Served 18 & over, for younger than 18, call 706-270-5094 or 706-270-5047
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; some insurances; other payment methods
Interpreters Greek

 
Program Name Chatsworth Child and Adolescent Services
Address 601 North 3rd Avenue

Chatsworth, GA
County Murray
Phone # 706-517-3780
Service Description Services for children and adolescents with drug related issues and/or crisis management
Conditions Served All
Counties Served All
Ages Served Under 18
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; some insurances; other payment methods
Interpreters None

Therapeutic Recreation Services
Program Name Dalton Parks and Recreation
Address Post Office Box 661, Dalton, GA 30722
County Whitfield
Phone # 706/278-5404
Fax # 706/278-1057
Service Description * Provide recreational activities ranging from sports and athletics to leisure
* Serve all ages in a wide variety of activities
* Minimal to no charge for activities
* Recreation activities for children and adults with a disability
Conditions Served All
Counties Served Whitfield
Ages Served 3 to 5 years; 6 to 11 years; 12 to 18 years; 19 to 21 years; 21 to 59 years
Payment Types -
Interpreters No Interpreters Available
E-Mail hcook.rc@citydalton.net
Website www.citydalton.net

 
Program Name Whitfield County Recreation Department
Address Post Office Box 277, 176 Glillespie Drive, Dalton, GA 30722
County Whitfield
Phone # 706/226-8341
Fax # 706/279-1515
Service Description * No specific programs for those with disabilities
* Integrates those with disabilities into its recreation programs
* Programs include baseball, softball, football, cheerleading, and basketball
* One of largest programs for girls in Georgia (has girls playing football)
Conditions Served All
Counties Served Whitfield
Ages Served Ages 3 – 18
Payment Types Charges For Services
E-Mail whitrecdept@alltel.net
Website www.whitfieldcountyga.com

Transportation Services
Program Name Whitfield Transportation Services
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-278-3606
Service Description Provides transportation to residents of Whitfield County to anywhere in Whitfield County; must have 24 hours notice, $1.50 for the first five miles, $0.25 any additional miles; Medicaid will pay, but must call Logisticare first 1-800-807-5030
Conditions Served All
Counties Served Whitfield
Ages Served All ages
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid, with prior notification; other payment methods
Program Name Murray County Transportation (MATS)
County Murray
Phone # 706-695-5161
Service Description Provides transportation to residents of Murray County to anywhere in Whitfield or Murray Counties; must give 24 hours notice; $1.00 for the first 5 miles, $0.25 for any additional miles; Medicaid will pay, but must call Logisticare first 1-800-807-5030
Conditions Served All
Counties Served Whitfield
Ages Served All ages
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid, with prior notification; other payment methods

 
Program Name ActiveRide (Emergency Medical Service)
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-278-9211
Service Description Provides transportation to residents of Murray and Whitfield County with Ambulatory and wheelchair needs; must give 24 hours notice; $8.00 each way/ $0.50 mile (emergency and non-emergency); Medicaid will pay, but must call Logisticare first 1-800-807-5030
Conditions Served All
Counties Served Whitfield; Murray
Ages Served All ages
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid, with prior notification; other payment methods

Food and Grocery Services
Program Name Angel Food Ministries
Provider & Phone # Dalton

True Gospel Pentecostal Church, Mrs. Graham: 706-259-9744

Kaye Atkins 706-275-4441

Shadow Ridge Worship Center 706-694-4400

Valley Brook Church of God 706-279-3296

Varnell United Methodist 706-694-8023

Trinity United Methodist 706-259-2823

Chatsworth

Faith Baptist Church 706-695-6866

Higher Praise Church of God 706-629-1693

Mt. View Baptist Church 706-695-5102

Smyrna Baptist Church 706-695-5815

Tabernacle of Praise Deliverance Center 706-517-0377
Service Description Grocery orders taken at an extremely discounted cost; open to anyone, regardless of income
Conditions Served All
County Whitfield; Murray
Ages Served All ages
Payment Types Cash; food stamps; other payment methods
Interpreters None

 
Program Name Second Chance
Address 115 North Hamilton St.

Dalton, GA 30720
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-271-1818
Service Description Food Service for low income; must go by and put name on a list, food truck comes by once a month and those on the list will be called to come pick up food.
Counties Served All
Ages Served All ages
Payment Types Some free services; other payment methods
Interpreters Spanish

 
Program Name Salvation Army (across from Thrift Store)
Address 1101 Chattanooga Ave.

Dalton, GA 30720
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-278-3966
Service Description Food service for low income; must bring ID and Social Security card for each family member.
Counties Served All
Ages Served All ages
Payment Types Some free services; other payment methods
Interpreters None

 
Program Name Central Church of Christ
Address 214 King Street

Dalton, GA 30720
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-278-8051
Payment Types Some free services

 
Program Name Harbor House (blue house)
Address Dalton Church of God

1007 Underwood St

Dalton, GA 30721
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-278-2649
Payment Types Some free services

 
Program Name Fellowship Bible Church
Address 806 W. Walnut Ave.

Dalton, GA 30720
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-278-6269
Payment Types Some free services

 
Program Name Dalton Church of God
Address 1007 Underwood St

Dalton, GA 30721
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-278-2649
Payment Types Some free services
Program Name First Baptist Church of Dalton
Address 311 N Thornton Ave
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-278-2911
Payment Types Some free services
 

 

  
Program Name Grove Level Baptist Church
Address 2802 Cleveland Hwy

Dalton, GA 30721
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-259-8519
Payment Types Some free services

 
Program Name Hometown Ministries
Address 314 Stanley St

Dalton, GA 30721
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-226-7022 **call before coming**
Payment Types Some free services

 
Program Name Liberty Baptist Church
Address 4443 Tibbs Bridge Road

Dalton, GA 30721
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-226-4936
Payment Types Some free services

Community Meals
Program Name Harvest Outreach
Address 207 East Morris St

Dalton, GA 30720
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-226-7995
Payment Types Some free services; other payment methods
Interpreters Spanish

 
Program Name Providence Ministries
Address 711 South Hamilton St.

Dalton, GA 30720
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-275-0268
Payment Types Some free services; other payment methods
Interpreters Spanish

 
Program Name Upper Room Mission
Address 103 West Waugh St (upstairs)

Dalton, GA 30720
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-226-8393
Payment Types Some free services; other payment methods
Interpreters Spanish

Rehabilitation Services
Program Name Bradley Rehabilitation/Bradley Wellness Center
Address 1225 Broadrick Drive, , Dalton, GA 30722
County Whitfield
Phone # 706/272-6199
Fax # 706/272-6291
Service Description * Bradley Rehab Center is in the same building as Bradley Wellness Center
* Both are affiliated with Hamilton Medical Center
* Offers adult and pediatric occupational therapy and physical therapy
* Offers nutritional counseling
* Classes and fitness programs
* Clients can use the Whitfield Public Transportation System
* An outpatient rehabilitation center
Conditions Served All
Counties Served Gordon; Murray; Whitfield
Ages Served All Ages
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; Accepts Insurance; Charges For Services
Interpreters Spanish; French

Respite Care

Program Name North Central Respite Network
Address Community Developmental Services, 407 North Thornton Avenue, Ste. 4, Dalton, GA 30720
County Whitfield
Phone # 706/270-5050
Fax # 706/270-5052
Service Description * Allows families to select the type of respite care service needed and to choose their own respite provider
* Assists families with the cost of respite care
* Families are required to pay a portion of the respite cost
* No family is refused service because of inability to pay
* Five agencies involved in the Respite Network (Community Developmental Services is coordinating agency)
* Agencies serve 7 counties
Conditions Served Autism; Developmental Delay; Mental Retardation
Region Served Specific Counties
Counties Served Cherokee; Fannin; Gilmer; Murray; Pickens; Whitfield
Ages Served All Ages
Payment Types Sliding Scale; Charges For Services; Some Free Services
Interpreters No Interpreters Available
Website www.gahighlands.org

 

Program Name Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Addictive Diseases – North Region (Includes Murray and Whitfield)
Address 475 Tribble Gap Rd., Suite 120, Cumming, Georgia 30040
Phone # 770-886-3407
Fax # 770-886-8540
Emergency # 678-852-4302
Service Description *Recovery for people with mental illnesses and addiction

*Includes respite services

*Supported employment

*Residential and crisis services
Conditions Served Mental Retardation or related developmental disabilities; alcohol or other drug addictions; the most severe mental illnesses such as schizophrenia and bi-polar disorder, or children and teens with severe emotional disturbance
Counties Served Whitfield and Murray
Ages Served All ages

Speech and Language Services
Program Name Hamilton Home Health Care
Address Hamilton Medical Center, P.O. Box 1168, Dalton, GA 30722-1168
County Whitfield
Phone # 706/226-2848
Fax # 706/278-4973
Service Description * Nursing and home health services
* Skilled nursing services
* Home health aide services
* Personal support services
* Medical social work services
* Maternal/child programs
* Behavioral health services
* Esterostomal therapy services
* Infusion therapy services
* Occupational therapy services
* Physical therapy services
* Speech and language therapy services
* Hospice program provides nurses, patient/family education, pharmacy services, supplies & equipment, pain & symptom control, and bereavement support for families and friends
Conditions Served Developmental Delay; Language Disorder, Aphasia; Language Disorder, Unspecified; Speech Delay; Speech Disorder
Region Served Specific Counties
Counties Served Whitfield; Gordon; Murray
Ages Served All Ages
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; Accepts Insurance; Charges For Services; Other Payment Method (Medicare, private pay)
Interpreters Spanish

 

Program Name Looper Speech & Hearing Center
Address 1011 Professional Blvd., , Dalton, GA 30720
County Whitfield
Phone # 706/226-4623
Fax # 706/278-0580
Service Description * Audiology services
* Speech and language therapy services
Conditions Served Developmental Delay; Hearing Impaired, Deaf; Hearing Impaired, Partial; Language Disorder, Aphasia; Language Disorder, Unspecified; Speech Delay; Speech Disorder
Region Served Specific Counties
Counties Served Whitfield; Gordon; Walker; Dade; Murray; Catoosa; Chattooga
Ages Served All Ages
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; Accepts Insurance; Charges For Services; Other Payment Method (Medicare)
Interpreters Sign Language

 
Program Name T.I.P.S. For Children, Inc.
Address 711 Shield Road, , Dalton, GA 30720
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-278-3839
Fax # 706-259-7432
Service Description * Occupational, Speech, and Physical therapies
* Special instruction
* Serves birth - 21 and some developmentally delayed adults
Conditions Served Developmental Delay
Counties Served Catoosa; Gordon; Murray; Whitfield
Ages Served All Ages (see notes)
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; Accepts Insurance; Other Payment Method (BCW)
Interpreters Sign Language; Spanish
E-Mail tips@dalton.net
Website http://www.tipsforchildren.com
Program Name Dawn Cook – Speech Therapy
Address 1011 Professional Blvd.

Dalton, GA 30720-2506
County Whitfield
Phone # 706-226-4623
Service Description Speech and Language Services
Conditions Served All
Counties Served All
Ages Served All ages
Payment Types Accepts Medicaid; some insurances; other payment methods
Interpreters None

Websites
Name Social Security Resources for Children
Address http://www.ssa.gov/disability/professionals/publications.htm
Name Resource Database for Children with Disabilities/Parent Mentors
Address http://www.parenttoparentofga.org
Name March of Dimes
Address http://www.modimes.org
Name Person Centered Futures Planning
Address http://www.selfdetermination.org
Name Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Addictive Diseases (MHDDAD)
Address http://www2.state.ga.us/departments/dhr/mhmrsa/index.html
Name Autism Society of Greater Georgia
Address http://www.asaga.com
Name United Cerebral Palsy of Georgia
Address http://www. ucpga.org/
Name Autism Society of America
Address http://www.asaga.com/
Name Future Horizons
Address http://www.futurehorizons-autism.com/
Name Tony Attwoods Web Site
Address http://www.tonyattwood.com.au/
Name Autism Network Resources for Physicians
Address http://home.san.rr.com/autismnet/research.html
Name Police and Autism
Address http://www.policeandautism.cjb.net/
Name Institute for the Study of the Neurologically Typical
Address http://isnt.autistics.org/
Name United Way of America
Address http://www.unitedway.org
Name United Way of Northwest Georgia
Address http://ourunitedway.org/news.html
Name Statewide Independent Living Council of Georgia
Address http://www.silcga.org
Name State of Georgia Department of Education- Exceptional Students
Address http://www.doe.k12.ga.us/curriculum/exceptional
Name Georgia Learning Resource System Division for Exceptional Students
Address http://www.glrs.org

Advocacy

Program Name Georgia Advocacy Office
Address 100 Crescent Centre Parkway, Suite 520, Tucker, Georgia 30084
Telephone # 404-885-1234 or 800-537-2329
Program Services Free advocacy and legal advice regarding IDEA, ADA, and other disability related issues
Website http://www.thegao.org
E-mail info@thegao.org

 
Program Name The Arc of Georgia
Address 1900 Century Place
Suite 360
Atlanta, Georgia 30345
Telephone # 404-634-5512
Program Services Advocacy for individuals with mental retardation
Contact Person Janice Rossi, Executive Direct
E-mail e-mail: admin@arcga.org
Program Name Parent's Educating Parents & Professionals
Telephone # 770-577-7771
Program Services Advocacy and education about disability rights

 
Program Name Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities
Address 2 Peachtree St. Atlanta, GA 300
Telephone # 404-657-2126 or 1-888-275-4233
Program Services Advocacy for individuals with developmental disabilities; initiative for systems change
Contact Person Eric Jacobson, Executive Director
Web Address http://www.ga-ddcouncil.org/

Legislators
Name State Representative Jack J. White
Capitol Web Address: http://www.legis.state.ga.us/cgi-bin/gl_peo_detail.pl?Leg=gash003p2
Campaign Email Address: jack@jackwhite.org
Campaign Web Address: http://www.jackwhite.org
Capitol Address: Legislative Office Building Room 412
Atlanta, GA  30334
Phone # 404-656-0137
Fax # 706-258-2393
District Address: Post Office Box 1713, Blue Ridge, GA  30513
Phone # 706-632-0120
Fax # 706-258-2393

 

Name State Representative Ronald L. Forster
Capitol Web Address: http://www.legis.state.ga.us/cgi-bin/gl_peo_detail.pl?Leg=gash003p1
Capitol Email Address: RForster@legis.state.ga.us
Campaign Email Address: forster@catt.com
Campaign Web Address: http://www.gasrd3.org
Capitol Address: 604 Legislative Office Building
Atlanta, GA  30334
Phone # 404-656-0227
District Address: 14 Hillcrest Court, Ringgold, GA  30736
Phone # 706-937-4304

 

Name State Representative Craig Brock
Capitol Web Address: http://www.legis.state.ga.us/cgi-bin/gl_peo_detail.pl?Leg=gash005
Personal Email Address: duratex@vol.com
Capitol Address: 509 Legislative Office building
Atlanta, GA  30334
Phone # 404-656-0220
District Address: 565 Wildwood Drive
Chatsworth, GA  30705
Phone # 706-275-0305
 

Name

  

State Representative Roger Williams

Capitol Web Address: http://www.legis.state.ga.us/cgi-bin/gl_peo_detail.pl?Leg=gash004
Campaign Email Address: wroger@alltel.net
Capitol Address: 409 Legislative Office Building
Atlanta, GA  30334
Phone # 404-656-0116
Fax # 706-226-2201
District Address: Post Office Box 2125
Dalton, GA  30722-2125
Phone # 706-278-3221

 
Name State Senator Don Thomas
Capitol Web Address: http://www.legis.state.ga.us/cgi-bin/gl_peo_detail.pl?Leg=gass54
Capitol Email Address: dthomas@legis.state.ga.us
Capitol Address: 301-B Legislative Office Building
Atlanta, GA  30334
Phone # 404-656-6436
Fax # 404-463-4161
District Address: 184 Haig Mill Road, Dalton, GA  30721
Phone # 706-259-3921
Fax # 706-259-3991

 

Name State Senator Jeff E. Mullis
Capitol Web Address: http://www.legis.state.ga.us/cgi-bin/gl_peo_detail.pl?Leg=gass53
Capitol Email Address: jmullis@legis.state.ga.us
Campaign Email Address: jeffmullis@comcast.net
Capitol Address: 301-A Legislative Office Building
Atlanta, GA  30334
Phone # 404-656-0057
Fax # 404-656-7428
District Address: 519 Cove Road
Chickamauga, GA  30707
Phone # 706-375-4921
Fax # 706-375-9566

Education
School System Whitfield County
Address 201 East Tyler Street, P.O. Box 2167

Dalton, GA 30722-2167
Phone # 706-278-8070
Special Education Director George Smalley
E-mail gsmalley@whitfield.k12.ga.us
Parent Mentor Erin Kenemer
E-mail erin_kenemer@whitfield.k12.ga.us
Phone 706-876-3929
Program Services Special education services for children ages 3-21
Conditions Served All
Counties Served Whitfield
Ages Served Ages 3-21
Interpreters Sign Language; Spanish

 

School System Dalton City Schools
Address 800 S. Hamilton Street

Dalton, GA 30722
Phone # 706-278-8766
Special Education Director Shelley Goodman
E-mail sgoodman@dalton.k12.ga.us
Parent Mentor Nancy Horner
E-mail nhorner@dalton.k12.ga.us
Phone 706-876-4014
Program Services Special education services for children ages 3-21
Conditions Served All
Counties Served Dalton City
Ages Served Ages 3-21
Interpreters Sign Language; Spanish

 

School System Murray County
Address 715 Chestnut Street, P.O. Box 40

Chatsworth, GA 30705
Phone # 706-695-2252
Special Education Director Joyce Garrison
E-mail joyce.garrison@murray.k12.ga.us
Parent Mentor Delia "Cookie" Perez
Phone 706-695-2252
Program Services Special education services for children ages 3-21
Conditions Served All
Counties Served Murray
Ages Served Ages 3-21
Interpreters Sign Language; Spanish

This project is funded in part by Georgia Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities.