Hi everyone,

As you are all aware, California will be opening the Tier system on Monday, March 15, to incorporate the individuals we support and those with significant underlying health conditions. To view this letter again, please click here.

In response to this, the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) has released a new department directive instructing regional centers to have service coordinators contact the individuals we support to ensure that individuals are aware of their eligibility and offer assistance as needed. Westside will be sending daily e-newsletters to individuals and family members informing them of their eligibility to receive the COVID-19 vaccine along with helpful resources.

DDS has provided Westside with a verification letter template to help these individuals demonstrate their eligibility for the COVID-19 vaccine. This verification letter will identify the individual by name as someone supported by the regional center with a developmental disability. Westside will send these personalized verification letters by mail to all the individuals we support over 16 years of age by Friday, March 12.

In addition, Service Coordinators have an electronic copy of the verification letter. They can provide the individual or parent/guardian with a copy should the letter not arrive by mail or if a duplicate is needed. If anyone requires support in making their appointment, please contact us at our main number at 310-258-4000 to assist you. If individuals require assistance with transportation, please inform your Service Coordinator, who can help you with this request.

Individuals must bring their personalized letter to the vaccination site to verify their eligibility for vaccination, or they will be turned away. The information below may be useful in scheduling an appointment or learning more about available COVID-19 vaccines. Please contact your Service Coordinator for further assistance.

Best regards,

Dr. Tom Kelly

Director of Clinical Services

WRC COVID-19 Task Force