Oklahoma Respite Resource Network (ORRN)

Respite is the temporary short-term relief for families and caregivers who need a break from the responsibilities of caring for a family member or loved one with a disability or special health care need.  Respite can range from a few hours to a week or more, depending on the needs and resources of the family and can take place in the family's home, the home of a friend or relative, a daycare center or even a church.  Respite can be used for lots of things, like visiting family or friends, run errands, spending an evening at the movies or taking a vacation.  Some parents use respite so they can spend time with another child or with their spouse. The benefits of respite are many and include reducing stress on the family and improved parenting or care giving.

The Oklahoma Respite Resource Network (ORRN) is a collaboration of public and private agencies working to support families and caregivers by increasing the availability of respite care in Oklahoma.  OASIS provides a contact point for ORRN through its office.  Members of ORRN include representatives from the Oklahoma Department of Human Services, the Oklahoma State Department of Health, Oklahoma Health Care Authority, the Commission on Children and Youth, Oklahoma Developmental Disabilities Council, Tulsa ARC, SoonerStart, Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, OASIS, parents and consumers.  Two programs already underway through the ORRN are the Respite Provider Registry which provides a listing of agency respite providers and the Respite Voucher Program which provides funding assistance for the purchase of respite services.