News - LIFTT

Statement on Montana Fair Housing’s loss of HUD Funding

Editor’s Note: Recently, it was announced that the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), at the behest of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) terminated a $425,000 grant that provided much of the funding to Montana Fair Housing, a statewide non-profit organization that for the past 37 years has been responsible for educating renters, home buyers, landlords, realtors, and the general public about housing discrimination, how to prevent it and what steps are available to those who experience it (Full Story from MTN News). Following this loss of critical funding and programming in the fight against housing discrimination, LIFTT Executive Director Carlos Ramalho issued the following statement expressing LIFTT’s appreciation for Montana Fair Housing’s work and our concern for the future:

For 37 years, Montana Fair Housing has been a pillar of education, advocacy, and justice, working to ensure that renters, home buyers, landlords, and realtors understand their rights and responsibilities under fair housing laws. Their tireless efforts to combat housing discrimination and promote accessibility have made Montana a more inclusive place for people of all backgrounds — especially those who are disabled, aging, or otherwise vulnerable to housing inequities.

That’s why we acknowledge with deep regret the sudden termination of their federal contract with HUD on February 27, 2025 — a decision made without warning and with immediate effect.

Why This Matters

Housing is not just about shelter but security, dignity, and independence. Montana Fair Housing has been a lifeline for those facing discrimination, ensuring that the Fair Housing Act is upheld and that every Montanan — regardless of race, disability, age, or economic status — has access to safe and fair housing opportunities.

At LIFTT, we disagree with this decision and fear its impact on our communities most vulnerable. Without Montana Fair Housing’s full presence, who will step in to protect the rights of renters and home buyers? Who will educate landlords and realtors? Who will fight for those experiencing housing discrimination?

These are not just bureaucratic concerns but real issues that affect real people. We cannot afford to take fair and accessible housing for granted.

Moving Forward

As Montana Fair Housing reorganizes its services to continue on a more limited basis, we at LIFTT want to express our deep appreciation for their decades of service. Their work has made a profound difference, and we stand in solidarity with them as they navigate this unexpected and difficult transition.

We also call upon our community, advocates, and policymakers to find solutions to fill this void — because housing justice should never be optional.

To Montana Fair Housing: Thank you for 37 years of unwavering commitment. Your impact will not be forgotten.

LIFTT will continue to do everything we can to help those who need assistance with housing-related advocacy and resources. Please stay connected with us as we work toward solutions.

About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings and Glendive, LIFTT provides aging and disabled members of the community with programs and services that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and south-central Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit liftt.org or download our mobile app for your Apple or Android Device.

You can donate to LIFTT by clicking here.

WHC Exhibits to focus on Disability History, Art

Two exhibits, one on the history of people with disabilities in Montana and another featuring works of art produced by disabled artists, will open for public viewing at the Western Heritage Center in downtown Billings beginning on Wednesday, March 26. The exhibits are the result of over two years of work by the Western Heritage Center, which used in-depth primary historical research and fourteen recent oral history interviews to uncover the unique and surprising stories of people living with disabilities in Montana.

Equally Different: Uncovering the History of Disability in Montana (March 2025 until December)

Following national trends of institutionalization and separation, the State of Montana began offering specialized education for the deaf, blind, and “feeble-minded” at the State School at Boulder and supported the opening of the Warm Springs Infirmary & Invalid Hospital (now the Montana State Hospital).

But while these institutions attempted to help Montanans with certain disabilities, local efforts took a different approach. Starting with the St. Vincent Orthopedic Hospital and Dr. Louis Allard, programs in Billings began leading the nation in services and integration. Then, as today, the history of people living with disabilities is about civil and human rights.

As federal legislation, such as the Education of All Handicapped Children Act of 1975, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990, and ADA Amendments Act of 2008, provided significant legal achievements for prohibiting discrimination of people with disabilities, many programs in Billings and Montana were working to accomplish these feats as early as the 1940s.

The disability rights movement continues today. In the exhibit, you’ll hear accounts from those who experience life with a disability and learn the stories of local advocates who worked to improve the lives of those living with disabilities. (Exhibit Description provided by Western Heritage Center)

Empowered HeARTs: Work from Artists with Disabilities.

Explore the emotions and skills of artists living with disabilities in the Yellowstone River Valley. From well-known talents, like Cliff Potts, to emerging young artists, experience the diversity and color of these wonderful works of art. (Exhibit Description provided by Western Heritage Center)

LIFTT is loaning Western Heritage Center a paper mache sculpture featuring two children riding in a rainbow colored hot air balloon for display in the Empowered HeARTs exhibit. The sculpture is one of several Justin Johnson gifted to LIFTT in 2013. Johnson was an autistic man who, when living in Billings from 2008-2013, participated in AWARE’s “Growth through Art” program and worked with Montana Vocational Rehabilitation and Job Connection to set up his own studio. Johnson passed away in Helena in 2014. LIFTT is proud to be able to honor Justin’s artistic legacy through this loan.

Artist Justin Johnson (left) and then LIFTT executive director Joe Burst pose with a sculpture Johnson, an autistic man, created and donated to LIFTT in 2013. Johnson would pass away in 2014. LIFTT is proud to honor Johnson’s legacy, by loaning the sculpture to the Western Heritage Center to display in an upcoming art exhibit by disabled artists from our region.

The Western Heritage Center is located at 2822 Montana Avenue in downtown Billings and is open Tuesdays-Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission to the museum is $5 for adults. $3 students & seniors, and free for children under age six. The buliding, which at one time was home to the Billings Public Library, has an ADA accessible elevator and an accessible entry is located at ground level to the right of the main entry staircase. The museum also provides what is known as a “Social Story” as a guide to help potential visitors with concerns about social interaction and public spaces learn what to expect when they come to the museum. For more information about the Western Heritage Center visit ywhc.org or call (406) 256-6809

Western Heritage Center Community Historian Lauren Hunley Recently Joined Carlos Ramalho and Jed Barton on an episode of “Living Well in Montana” to discuss the exhibits, some of the surprising facts her research has yielded, and how history echoes in the situations the disability community finds itself in today. You can watch the full episode below.

About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings and Glendive, LIFTT provides aging and disabled members of the community with programs and services that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and south-central Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit liftt.org or download our mobile app for your Apple or Android Device.

You can donate to LIFTT by clicking here.

Section 504 Under Threat, Act Now!

Make no mistake: Texas v. Becerra is not about “government overreach.” It is about power — the power to decide who gets to participate in society and who does not.”

LIFTT Executive Director Carlos Ramalho

Montana’s Attorney General Austin Knudsen has joined 16 other state AGs in a lawsuit ( Texas v. Bercerra) challenging the constitutionality of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.

Section 504 predates the Americans with Disabilities Act and is the basis for civil rights protections and reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities’ participation in education, health care, and any other program or service that receives federal funding.

As LIFTT Executive Director Carlos Ramalho said in his recent “Call to Action to Defend Section 504”, the stakes could not be higher if this lawsuit succeeds:

“For more than 50 years, Section 504 has been the cornerstone of disability rights in America. It was the first federal law to prohibit discrimination against people with disabilities, the foundation upon which the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) was built. It is the reason that:

Students with disabilities receive accommodations in public schools.
Disabled veterans cannot be denied federal employment.
Hospitals and clinics must provide accessible medical care.
Public transportation must be accessible to all.

And let us not forget what life looked like before Section 504. If you had a disability, you were not protected. You were not included. You were not seen. You could be denied education, turned away from jobs, left without medical care, and institutionalized against your will.

That was not ancient history. That was America — just 50 years ago. And if the plaintiffs in Texas v. Becerra have their way, we will return to that world.

Make no mistake: Texas v. Becerra is not about “government overreach.” It is about power — the power to decide who gets to participate in society and who does not.

Montana and 16 other states claim they are not trying to eliminate Section 504, just to limit its enforcement. But let’s call this what it is: a deliberate attempt to erode protections until they are meaningless.

The plaintiffs argue that requiring states to provide services in the “most integrated setting” possible is an undue burden. In other words, they want the power to institutionalize people with disabilities rather than provide them with the resources they need to live independently.

They argue that states should not be held accountable if their policies put people at “serious risk of institutionalization.” In other words, they want to cut services without consequence, even if it forces people into nursing homes or segregated facilities against their will.

They argue that the federal government has no right to set conditions on how states use federal disability funding. But let’s be clear: you cannot take the money and reject the responsibility.

If this lawsuit succeeds, it will not be politicians or bureaucrats who suffer. It will be:

The child with cerebral palsy who is told her school is no longer required to accommodate her.
The veteran with a spinal cord injury who finds that his healthcare options have suddenly narrowed.
The Montana senior with mobility impairments who is forced into an institution because home-based services were quietly defunded.
The young professional with vision loss who is denied a job because her employer no longer fears legal consequences.

This is not theoretical. This is what will happen.

We often hear the words, “All men are created equal.” But do we mean it? Does equality stop at the presence of a disability? Are we really willing to return to a society where disability rights are optional?”

Background on Texas v. Becera

LIFTT has prepared two documents to provide advocates and the public with more background on Texas v. Bercerra and the real possibilities for harm that exist should the plaintiff states get what they are asking for. Click on the links below to view them.

How Can I Take Action?

We need every Montanan, those with disabilities and those without, to contact Attorney General Austin Knudsen by phone, email, and even snail mail and ask him to stop attacking our rights guaranteed us by Section 504 and withdraw from this lawsuit!

How do I contact Attorney General Knudsen and tell him to stop attacking our rights?

There are several ways to voice your concerns to the Attorney General:

Email: contactdoj@mt.gov
Snail Mail: P.O. Box 201401, Helena, MT 59620-1401
Phone: (406) 444-2026
Web: Montana’s DOJ Website Contact Page

What do I write/say?

Be respectful
Say who you are. Say your name or the name of your group you represent. Say where you in Montana you live. If you want, you can say what your disability is.
Say why you support Section 504 and its rules. Talk about why Section 504 is essential to you. Section 504 and its rules make sure people with disabilities can be included in schools, see their doctor, and have access to things like housing and transportation.
Say why Texas v. Becerra is a threat to your civil rights. If the court agrees with the states bringing the lawsuit, people with disabilities will lose civil rights. These rights have protected people with disabilities for over 50 years.
Include personal details. You can tell a personal story about why Section 504 matters to you. Some stories that might be helpful to include are:
How you got an interpreter at a doctor’s appointment and could talk to your doctor.
How a 504 Plan helped you be included in school as a child or young adult.
How a 504 Plan allows your child to participate in school
How did a reasonable accommodation help you gain or maintain employment
How are your needs met in a community integrated setting instead of a nursing home or other institution

About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings and Glendive, LIFTT provides aging and disabled members of the community with programs and services that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and south-central Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit liftt.org or download our mobile app for your Apple or Android Device.

You can donate to LIFTT by clicking here.

Transformation in the face of adversity

With New Challenges Comes New Strength and Vision

There’s something remarkable about resilience in the face of adversity. It doesn’t just help us withstand storms — it provides opportunity for transformation.

Over the past few months, LIFTT has faced significant challenges. A funding freeze, bureaucratic uncertainty, and an unexpected disruption to the resources we rely on shook the foundation of our work. It was a moment of deep concern for our team and the thousands of individuals and families we serve across Southcentral and Eastern Montana.

But today, we are thrilled to announce that our funding is flowing again. The misunderstandings that led to the temporary crisis have been clarified, and we are once again fully equipped to provide the services and support that empower people with disabilities to live independently.

However, this experience was not just a hurdle to overcome — it was an invitation to reflect, rethink, and transform.

Rethinking Who We Are and What We Do

Rather than simply returning to “business as usual,” we at LIFTT are embracing this as a critical moment for growth. This challenge reminded us of why we exist and how essential our work is. It inspired us to ask bold questions:

How can we serve our communities even better?
What new opportunities can we explore to expand accessibility and inclusion?
How can we ensure that funding disruptions never again threaten the lifeline of independent living services?

As a result, we are launching an internal transformation process that invites innovation, creativity, and strategic planning. We are exploring new funding streams, strengthening our advocacy efforts, and expanding partnerships to build a more resilient future.

Gratitude and Forward Momentum

None of this would be possible without the unwavering support of our community. Thank you to those who stood by us, advocated for us, and reminded policymakers of the essential role independent living centers play in the lives of people with disabilities. Your voices made a difference.

With funding restored, our programs are fully operational, and we are moving forward with renewed determination. Peer support, advocacy, skills training, transition services, and so much more are once again available to those relying on LIFTT.

But we are not just rebuilding — we are reimagining. This experience has sparked a renewed commitment to growth, inclusion, and transformation.

The Road Ahead

We invite you to walk alongside us as we enter this new chapter. Whether you are a consumer, advocate, policymaker, or ally, your support is invaluable. Please stay connected with us, join our advocacy efforts, and let us continue to work together to ensure a future where people with disabilities have full access to the resources, opportunities, and dignity they deserve.

We are LIFTT—Living Independently for Today and Tomorrow. Today, we move forward stronger than ever. For updates and ways to get involved, visit www.liftt.org or call us at (406) 259-5181.

Carlos A. Ramalho, Executive Director
LIFTT – Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow
www.liftt.org
1241 Crawford Drive, Billings, MT 59102
Email: carlosr@liftt.org
Telephone: (406) 259-5181

About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings and Glendive, LIFTT provides aging and disabled members of the community with programs and services that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and south-central Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit liftt.org or download our mobile app for your Apple or Android Device.

You can donate to LIFTT by clicking here.

LIFTT is Planting an Accessible Community Garden

An AI rendering of a community garden including a person acessing a plant box while using a wheelchair. this is possible becuase the box is raised above the ground to an appropriate level.

An AI representation of an accessible community garden

Spring is just around the corner, and guess what? We’re planting something amazing at LIFTT! This year, for the first time, LIFTT will be home to a fully ADA-accessible community garden at 1241 Crawford Drive, Billings, MT 59102, running throughout the Spring, Summer, and Fall of 2025. That’s right — a garden that welcomes EVERYONE to dig, plant, grow, and harvest together. Imagine it: fresh veggies, vibrant flowers, laughter, and the joy of getting your hands in the soil (or supervising from a comfy spot if that’s more your speed!). Whether you’re a seasoned gardener, a first-time planter, or someone who wants to soak up the sunshine and community spirit, this garden is for YOU.

Why a Community Garden at LIFTT?

Because gardening is for EVERYBODY, we believe that access to green spaces, fresh food, and the simple joy of growing something with your own hands should be inclusive. That’s why this garden is designed with raised beds, wide pathways, and accessible seating — so everyone can participate, regardless of mobility or ability.

How Can You Get Involved?

Plan to join us! Whether you want to plant, water, weed, or just enjoy the beauty of nature with good company, there’s a place for you.
Grow what you love. We’ll have space for fruits, veggies, flowers, herbs, and maybe even a surprise or two!
Learn and share. We’ll host gardening workshops, community events, and celebrations throughout the seasons.

Mark Your Calendars — Spring 2025 Is Just the Beginning!

We’ll be breaking ground in early Spring, and we can’t wait to see what grows — not just in the garden, but in the friendships, joy, and community spirit we cultivate together. At LIFTT’s ADA Accessible All Inclusive Community Garden, you can use tools to help individuals with mobility limitations, arthritis, low grip strength, or other physical challenges participate in gardening. Some examples include:

Long-Handled Tools– Rakes, hoes, and trowels with extended handles reduce the need for bending or reaching.
Ergonomic Hand Tools– Lightweight tools with padded, easy-grip handles reduce strain on hands and wrists.
Adaptive Gripping Aids– Devices that attach to tools to improve grip for individuals with limited dexterity.
Raised Garden Beds– Elevated planters and vertical gardens allow gardening from a seated or standing position.
Kneelers and Garden Seats– Cushioned kneeling pads and rolling garden seats provide support and reduce strain.
Self-Watering Containers– Minimize the need for frequent watering and reduce maintenance effort.
One-Handed Gardening Tools– trowels and cultivators specially designed to be used with one hand.
Wheelchair-Accessible Garden Layouts– Wide pathways, waist-high planting beds, and accessible workstations.

So, whether you’re a green-thumbed expert or want to enjoy the sights and smells of fresh basil and blooming sunflowers, LIFTT’s Community Garden is calling your name. Let’s plant something incredible together. Want to learn more or get involved? Stay tuned to LIFTT’s Website, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn for upcoming details, volunteer opportunities, and garden events!

See you in the garden!

About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings and Glendive, LIFTT provides aging and disabled members of the community with programs and services that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and south-central Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit liftt.org or download our mobile app for your Apple or Android Device.

You can donate to LIFTT by clicking here.

upLIFTT Thrift Store coming to Billings!

An AI rendering of what the upLIFTT Thrift Store might look like

What if shopping could change lives? What if your old golf clubs, vintage lamp, or forgotten bookshelf could fuel independence, sustain services, and uplift an entire community? Well, get ready, Billings — because it can.

Introducing upLIFTT Thrift — the newest, coolest, and most purposeful thrift store in town, opening at 1201 Grand Avenue, Billings, MT 59102. This isn’t just any thrift store — it’s a movement, a mission, and a chance for you to be part of something truly transformational.

Why upLIFTT?

Because every treasure you buy and every item you donate directly supports LIFTT’s Independent Living Services. That’s right—every vinyl record album, quirky kitchen gadget, and second-hand book fuels programs that help individuals with disabilities and aging individuals live fully, freely, and independently.

We Need YOU!

Donate everything EXCEPT CLOTHES—furniture, home goods, sporting goods, books, music, video games, movies, and gadgets. If you don’t need it, we do! The one exception to that rule is clothing; we don’t have the people or infrastructure in place to accept clothing donations.
Shop like your soul depends on it — because your purchases fund real change.
Spread the word — tell your neighbors, coworkers, and that one friend who always finds the best deals.
Join Us — We are looking for volunteers to help with the set-up and operations of upLIFTT thrift!

Want to Know More?

Call us at 406-259-5181 to learn how to volunteer, donate, or learn more about our opening.
Follow us! LIFTT’s Website, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and LinkedIn are places to go for updates, sneak peeks, and stories of the impact on the aging and disabled community that your support of upLIFTT Thrift has made.

So, are you ready to shop with purpose, donate with heart, and upLIFTT your community? The shelves are filling, the doors are opening, and we can’t wait to welcome you. See you soon at upLIFTT Thrift!

About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings and Glendive, LIFTT provides aging and disabled members of the community with programs and services that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and south-central Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit liftt.org or download our mobile app for your Apple or Android Device.

You can donate to LIFTT by clicking here.

LIFTT holding Coat Drive at both locations

Even as winter turns into spring (we hope!) here in the Northern Plains and Rockies, many in the communities we serve still need warm coats and outerwear to stay safe from the cold and wet weather. If you have gently used, clean coats, gloves, scarves, hats, or other warm clothing that you no longer need, please consider donating them to LIFTT consumers in need.

You can drop off your donations Monday-Friday between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. at either LIFTT office.

Billings: 1241 Crawford Drive, (406) 259-5181

Glendive: 119 S. Kendrick Avenue, (406) 948-8500

Your generosity can make a real difference in someone’s life! Thank you for helping us bring warmth and comfort to those who need it most.

About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings and Glendive, LIFTT provides aging and disabled members of the community with programs and services that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and south-central Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit liftt.org or download our mobile app for your Apple or Android Device.

You can donate to LIFTT by clicking here.

MWD can help put you to work!

For many individuals with disabilities, the decision to seek employment can be daunting. Concerns about losing essential health coverage often discourage people from entering the workforce. Fortunately, Montana’s Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (MWD) program provides a solution, allowing individuals with disabilities to work while maintaining their Medicaid benefits.

What is the Montana Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (MWD) Program?

The Montana MWD program, established in 2010, enables individuals with disabilities to ‘buy into’ Medicaid through a small monthly cost share instead of losing health coverage when they start earning income. This allows participants to work, earn wages, and gain financial independence while ensuring continued access to essential healthcare services.

Who is Eligible for the Program?

Disability Status: Must meet Social Security’s disability criteria or would qualify as disabled if not for current employment.
Age: Must be 16 years or older.
Employment: Must be employed or self-employed and able to verify employment.
Income Limit: Must have a countable income at or below 250% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
Resource Limits: Must meet resource limits (though retirement accounts are exempt from consideration).
Residency: Must be a Montana resident and not living in a medical institution.
Cost Share Fee: Must pay a monthly fee based on income, unless exempt (e.g., members of federally recognized tribes).

How Much Can Someone Earn and Still Qualify?

The 250% Federal Poverty Level (FPL) limit is adjusted annually. For 2025, the maximum allowable income per household size is:

Household Size	250% FPL (Annual)	250% FPL (Monthly)
1	$39,125	$3,260
2	$52,875	$4,406
3	$66,625	$5,552
4	$80,375	$6,698

How Much are the Cost Share Fees?

For 2025, the cost share fees have been set at:

Income Level (% of FPL)	Monthly Income	Monthly Cost Share Fee
Up to 100%	$0 – $1,305	$35
100% – 150%	$1,306 – $1,957	$67
150% – 200%	$1,958 – $2,610	$100
200% – 250%	$2,611 – $3,260	$135

Why is This Program Important?

People with disabilities often face barriers to employment, particularly when public benefits are at risk. Losing Medicaid coverage can be life-threatening, especially for individuals who rely on it for medication, personal care services, therapy, or assistive devices. The MWD program helps individuals work without fear of losing healthcare access.

Advantages of the MWD Program

Encourages Workforce Participation: MWD allows working individuals to maintain coverage while earning wages.
Promotes Economic Independence: Workers can earn money, save for the future, and improve their quality of life.
Supports Self-Employment & Entrepreneurship: Self-employed individuals can participate as long as they pay Social Security and Medicare taxes.
Provides Stability & Security Even if income fluctuates, participants can retain Medicaid under the program.

Concrete Situations Where MWD Makes a Difference

Young Adults Transitioning to Work: Many young adults with disabilities are eager to work but fear losing benefits. MWD helps bridge the transition.
Workers Who Need Personal Care Assistants: Those requiring assistance at home or work can keep their services while earning an income.
Individuals with Chronic Conditions: People who need ongoing medical care, prescription drugs, or therapy can work without risking their access to healthcare.

How to Apply for MWD

Contact Montana’s Office of Public Assistance (OPA) or visit their website at apply.mt.gov.
Submit an application online, by mail, or in person.
Provide proof of disability, income, and employment
Determine cost-share fees based on your financial situation.

The Montana Medicaid for Workers with Disabilities (MWD) program is a game-changer for individuals with disabilities who want to work without fear of losing health coverage. By supporting employment, financial independence, and access to medical care, the program empowers individuals to lead full, independent lives. If you or someone you know could benefit, consider applying. LIFTT’s team will gladly help you complete an application and communicate with the OPA . To make an appointment with an Independent Living Specialist, call us in Billings at (406) 259-5181 or Glendive at (406) 948-8500 or send a message through liftt.org/contact today!

About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings and Glendive, LIFTT provides aging and disabled members of the community with programs and services that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and south-central Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit liftt.org or download our mobile app for your Apple or Android Device.

You can donate to LIFTT by clicking here.

Living with Multiple Sclerosis: Support, Strength, and Community

Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a complex neurological condition that affects the central nervous system, disrupting communication between the brain and the body. While MS presents unique challenges, it is possible to manage the condition and lead a fulfilling, productive life. One of the most effective ways to navigate life with MS is through peer support, where individuals can share experiences, offer encouragement, and learn from one another.

As part of its commitment to empowering people with disabilities, Living Independently for Today and Tomorrow (LIFTT) is proud to open its doors to the Billings Area MS Support Group. The group is now meeting in the community room at LIFTT’s office (1241 Crawford Drive) on the third Friday of each month at 10 a.m. LIFTT is honored to be able to provide a safe, welcoming space for individuals living with MS to connect, share resources, and support one another.

What is Multiple Sclerosis (MS)?

MS is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the protective covering of nerve fibers (myelin) in the central nervous system. This process, known as demyelination, leads to inflammation and nerve damage, resulting in symptoms that vary widely from person to person.

Common Symptoms of MS:

Fatigue
Numbness or weakness in limbs
Difficulty walking or maintaining balance
Muscle spasms or stiffness
Vision problems such as blurred or double vision
Cognitive changes, including memory and concentration difficulties
Bowel and bladder dysfunction

MS symptoms can range from mild to severe and may come and go (relapsing-remitting MS) or gradually worsen over time (primary progressive MS).

How is MS Diagnosed?

There is no single test for MS, and diagnosing the condition can be complex. Physicians typically use a combination of the following:

Neurological Examination: A doctor assesses movement, coordination, vision, and reflexes.
MRI Scans: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) helps detect lesions or damage in the brain and spinal cord.
Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap): This test examines cerebrospinal fluid for signs of immune system activity linked to MS.
Evoked Potentials Tests: These measure the brain’s electrical response to stimuli to detect nerve damage.

Early diagnosis and intervention are critical in managing MS effectively and preventing long-term complications.

Managing MS: Living Well with the Condition

Although MS has no cure, many treatment options and lifestyle changes can help individuals manage their symptoms and maintain a high quality of life. MS management is different for everyone but in general managing MS involves

Follow a Treatment Plan: Work with a neurologist to explore disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) that slow progression and reduce flare-ups.
Adopt a Healthy Lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and adequate sleep can improve energy levels and overall well-being.
Manage Stress: Stress can trigger symptoms, so mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation techniques can be beneficial.
Stay Active: Engaging in gentle exercises such as yoga, swimming, or stretching can help with mobility and muscle strength.
Seek Support: Connecting with others who understand the MS journey can provide emotional and practical support.

The Importance of Peer Support

Living with MS can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Peer support groups provide:

A safe space to share experiences and frustrations
Education on managing symptoms and lifestyle changes
Emotional support and encouragement from those who truly understand
Access to resources and local services that can help with daily challenges

Joining a support group can empower individuals with MS to take control of their health and maintain a sense of community and hope

Billings Area MS Support Group now meets at LIFTT

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with MS, we invite you to join the Billings area MS Support group. The group meets on the third Friday of each month at 10 a.m. in the LIFTT Community Room at 1241 Crawford Drive. For more information, please contact Lora Wade at (406) 670-4275 or waid382@msn.com.

Together, we can navigate the journey of MS with strength, knowledge, and support. You are not alone!

About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings and Glendive, LIFTT provides aging and disabled members of the community with programs and services that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and south-central Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit liftt.org or download our mobile app for your Apple or Android Device.

You can donate to LIFTT by clicking here.

Severe Cold Weather Closes LIFTT Feb 18-19

Due to the severe cold weather forecast for the region and out of interest for the safety of our team members, consumers, and the public, the LIFTT offices in Billings and Glendive will be closed on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, and Wednesday, February 19, 2025. The closure also means there will be no Tai Chi and Diabetes Prevention Program Classes at the Billings office on 02/18/25.

The Billings and Glendive Offices will reopen on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 9 a.m. We thank the community for their understanding, and we hope everyone stays safe and warm as this weather system comes through our area.

About Living Independently for Today & Tomorrow (LIFTT): LIFTT is a Montana 501(c)3 corporation organized as a Center for Independent Living (CIL). With team members based in Billings and Glendive, LIFTT provides people with disabilities with programs and services that help empower them to break down the physical, bureaucratic, and cultural barriers that prevent them from being fully independent participants in their lives and communities throughout 18 counties in southeastern and south-central Montana: Big Horn, Carbon, Carter, Custer, Dawson, Fallon, Garfield, Golden Valley, McCone, Musselshell, Powder River, Prairie, Richland, Rosebud, Stillwater, Treasure, Wibaux, and Yellowstone. For more information, please visit liftt.org or download our mobile app for your Apple or Android Device.

You can donate to LIFTT by clicking here.