Earlier this year, NORD launched the first-of-its-kind Rare Caregiver Respite Program, designed to enable caregivers to take a much-deserved respite. Leah Schust, caregiver for her young son and one of the first to participate in the new program, shared how she recently spent her break.
“I was asked to be in my best friend’s wedding in Providence, RI and had to travel away from my home and my son for 4 days and 3 nights. My husband works full time so if we did not have this respite grant, he would have either had to take time off from work to stay home with Ben or I would have had to decline the opportunity,” Leah said. “I had the BEST time and it was such a needed break for me to be able to get away without having to worry about the care of our son.”
Through the program, NORD provides financial assistance to eligible caregivers covering up to $500 annually so that a respite caregiver may be secured to care for a loved one. Potential applicants can reach out to NORD to determine if they meet eligibility requirements. The grant may be dispersed throughout a calendar year or be used in a single award.
“Although I love my son and would not trade our lives for anything, every once in a while it is important to get away and do something ‘normal,’” Leah shared. “There is a critical need for respite when you care for a disabled child.”
The fund continues to accept additional donations to ensure the program is sustained for years to come. For more information and instructions on how to apply, click here.