G-1902-14767

The purpose of this grant is to support the ongoing critical work of the Coalition of Texans with Disabilities to be actively engaged in the Texas work to expand the adult dental benefit to include adults with disabilities. The Coalition is an organization that operates a network of disability advocates that leverage their collective voice to create equitable policy and systems change. Their history and capacity to meaningfully engage this key stakeholder community is critical to representing the oral health needs in Texas. Given that the political will continues to be favorable for expanding the adult dental benefit, in 2019, the Coalition for Texans with Disabilities will focus elevating the impact and needs of Texans with disabilities in conversations with decision-makers, with partner organizations, and within the media. Their work will consist of strengthening the support base for policy change, driving a message of fiscal responsibility, and engaging their network in meaningfully using their voice. This work aligns with the OH2020 goal of including an adult dental benefit in publicly funded health coverage. The budget for this project is $65,800 and covers the staff time, and contracted partnerships to, continue implementing this policy strategy.