How to Get Independent-Living and Disability Help in Highlands County
Use disability-led help for advocacy, independent-living skills, peer support, transition, employment, equipment, and access barriers.
Start here
Call the Center for Independent Living in Central Florida’s Lakeland office at 863-413-2722. The center serves Highlands County; Lakeland appointments are arranged in advance.
Monday–Thursday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.; Lakeland office by appointment; Florida Relay 711
See CIL services and coverageWhat to have ready
- Highlands County address and a safe callback number
- A one-sentence description of the need and what changed
- Any notice, application, denial, bill, or deadline involved
- Language, mobility, communication, and accommodation needs
Words you can use
“I am a Highlands County resident with a disability and need help with [specific goal, transition, peer support, advocacy, equipment, employment, or access barrier]. Which service fits and how do I start intake?”
Steps in order
- 1
Call or use the official intake route and lead with the immediate need.
- 2
Ask what eligibility, documents, assessment, and current funding or capacity apply.
- 3
Record the staff name, reference number, next action, and follow-up date.
- 4
Use the listed backup route if the program is closed, full, or not the correct door.
If the first answer is no or wait
Availability, funding, eligibility, and wait times can change. Ask for the reason in writing when possible, preserve every deadline, and dial 211 or call Highlands County at 863-402-6500 to locate another current route.
Official sources
- Center for Independent Living in Central Florida service area
- Center for Independent Living in Central Florida contact information
Sources checked August 9, 2026. Confirm eligibility, hours, cost, service area, and current availability directly.
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