Caregiver Support

Access Services provides behavioral health services, children & family services, and intellectual disability and autism services for 14 counties in eastern Pennsylvania. Our mission is to empower and serve people in need of specialized supports by providing innovative services that improve their ability to live fulfilling lives in the community.

AGE of Central Texas helps older adults and their caregivers thrive as they navigate the realities and opportunities of aging and caregiving. AGE envisions a society where aging is a shared journey marked by connection, strength, and vitality, and the role of caregiving is supported through community, collaboration, and guidance. Services offered by AGE include adult day health care, caregiver education and resources, early memory loss support, health equipment lending, and peer-based computer classes for seniors through the AGE computer lab.

The AGE of Central Texas Health Equipment Lending Program makes a wide variety of health and mobility equipment available to the community through free, no-time-limit loans of donated equipment.  In 2019, more than 1,375 individuals received loans provided at no charge to seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those in need. The program also distributes donated adult incontinence products to those who need them. If you need to request equipment or supplies, please call 512-600-9288 or email Equipment@AGEofCentralTX.org.

• Items that we usually have available to loan include:
  – Wheelchairs
  – Rollators
  – Walkers
  – Shower Chairs and Benches
  – Canes
  – Bedside Commodes
  – Crutches
  – Grab Bars and Rails
  – Elevated Toilet Seats
  – Adult Incontinence Products

If you have questions about aging or living with a disability, your local aging and disability resource center (ADRC) can help. The ADRC provides information on a variety of programs and services. That includes long-term care options. The ADRC also helps people apply for programs and benefits, including publicly funded long-term care.

The ADRC connects you with resources, including:

• Adaptive equipment.
• Caregiver support.
• Dementia care services.
• Health, nutrition, and home-delivery meal programs.
• Housekeeping and chore services.
• Housing options.
• In-home personal care and nursing.
• Long-term care programs.
• Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security.
• Safety updates to the home.
• Transportation.
• Wellness programs.

Find your local office here: https://www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/adrc/consumer/index.htm

The Aging and Disability Resource Center of Central Wisconsin promotes choice and independence through personalized education, advocacy, and access to services that prevent, delay, and lessen the impacts of aging and disabilities in the lives of adults. We are widely recognized as the preferred choice for initial contact and early access to information and resources that prevent, delay and lessen the impacts of aging and disabilities in the lives of adults. Our regional resource center promotes easy access to innovative ADRC services so that our consumers participate in the community as they desire, and live with dignity, respect, health, and purpose. Services include lending medical equipment, resource specialist to assist with diagnoses and transitions, support groups and classes, and assistance with understanding of Medicare service benefits.

Services:

Meals for Seniors: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/meals-for-seniors/

Benefits for Seniors with Disabilities: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/benefits-for-seniors-and-adults-with-disabilities/

Community Resources for Seniors and Adults with Disabilities: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/community-resources-seniors-adults-disabilities/

Dementia Support Services: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/dementia-support-services/

Support for Caregivers: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/support-for-caregivers/

Classes for Healthy Living: https://www.adrc-cw.org/classes-events/

Equipment Lending: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/equipment-lending/

The Aging and Disability Resource Center of Central Wisconsin promotes choice and independence through personalized education, advocacy, and access to services that prevent, delay, and lessen the impacts of aging and disabilities in the lives of adults. We are widely recognized as the preferred choice for initial contact and early access to information and resources that prevent, delay and lessen the impacts of aging and disabilities in the lives of adults. Our regional resource center promotes easy access to innovative ADRC services so that our consumers participate in the community as they desire, and live with dignity, respect, health, and purpose. Services include lending medical equipment, resource specialist to assist with diagnoses and transitions, support groups and classes, and assistance with understanding of Medicare service benefits.

Services:

Meals for Seniors: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/meals-for-seniors/

Benefits for Seniors with Disabilities: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/benefits-for-seniors-and-adults-with-disabilities/

Community Resources for Seniors and Adults with Disabilities: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/community-resources-seniors-adults-disabilities/

Dementia Support Services: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/dementia-support-services/

Support for Caregivers: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/support-for-caregivers/

Classes for Healthy Living: https://www.adrc-cw.org/classes-events/

Equipment Lending: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/equipment-lending/

The Aging and Disability Resource Center of Central Wisconsin promotes choice and independence through personalized education, advocacy, and access to services that prevent, delay, and lessen the impacts of aging and disabilities in the lives of adults. We are widely recognized as the preferred choice for initial contact and early access to information and resources that prevent, delay and lessen the impacts of aging and disabilities in the lives of adults. Our regional resource center promotes easy access to innovative ADRC services so that our consumers participate in the community as they desire, and live with dignity, respect, health, and purpose. Services include lending medical equipment, resource specialist to assist with diagnoses and transitions, support groups and classes, and assistance with understanding of Medicare service benefits.

Services:

Meals for Seniors: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/meals-for-seniors/

Benefits for Seniors with Disabilities: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/benefits-for-seniors-and-adults-with-disabilities/

Community Resources for Seniors and Adults with Disabilities: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/community-resources-seniors-adults-disabilities/

Dementia Support Services: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/dementia-support-services/

Support for Caregivers: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/support-for-caregivers/

Classes for Healthy Living: https://www.adrc-cw.org/classes-events/

Equipment Lending: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/equipment-lending/

The Aging and Disability Resource Center of Central Wisconsin promotes choice and independence through personalized education, advocacy, and access to services that prevent, delay, and lessen the impacts of aging and disabilities in the lives of adults. We are widely recognized as the preferred choice for initial contact and early access to information and resources that prevent, delay and lessen the impacts of aging and disabilities in the lives of adults. Our regional resource center promotes easy access to innovative ADRC services so that our consumers participate in the community as they desire, and live with dignity, respect, health, and purpose. Services include lending medical equipment, resource specialist to assist with diagnoses and transitions, support groups and classes, and assistance with understanding of Medicare service benefits.

Services:

Meals for Seniors: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/meals-for-seniors/

Benefits for Seniors with Disabilities: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/benefits-for-seniors-and-adults-with-disabilities/

Community Resources for Seniors and Adults with Disabilities: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/community-resources-seniors-adults-disabilities/

Dementia Support Services: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/dementia-support-services/

Support for Caregivers: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/support-for-caregivers/

Classes for Healthy Living: https://www.adrc-cw.org/classes-events/

Equipment Lending: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/equipment-lending/

The Aging and Disability Resource Center of Central Wisconsin promotes choice and independence through personalized education, advocacy, and access to services that prevent, delay, and lessen the impacts of aging and disabilities in the lives of adults. We are widely recognized as the preferred choice for initial contact and early access to information and resources that prevent, delay and lessen the impacts of aging and disabilities in the lives of adults. Our regional resource center promotes easy access to innovative ADRC services so that our consumers participate in the community as they desire, and live with dignity, respect, health, and purpose. Services include lending medical equipment, resource specialist to assist with diagnoses and transitions, support groups and classes, and assistance with understanding of Medicare service benefits.

Services:

Meals for Seniors: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/meals-for-seniors/

Benefits for Seniors with Disabilities: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/benefits-for-seniors-and-adults-with-disabilities/

Community Resources for Seniors and Adults with Disabilities: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/community-resources-seniors-adults-disabilities/

Dementia Support Services: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/dementia-support-services/

Support for Caregivers: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/support-for-caregivers/

Classes for Healthy Living: https://www.adrc-cw.org/classes-events/

Equipment Lending: https://www.adrc-cw.org/services/equipment-lending/

The Area Agency on Aging of Broward County (AAABC) plans, develops, coordinates, and evaluates programs; funds services; and is the prime advocate for residents of Broward County, Florida, 60 years of age or older.  The AAA also operates the Aging and Disability Resource Center which is your one-stop source of information regarding services in Broward County, Florida, for seniors, persons with disabilities, ages 18 and over, their families, and caregivers.

Participants must be 60 years of age or older for most programs except for the grandparent’s program which is eligible to seniors age 55 and older. In addition, the Alzheimer’s Disease Initiative program requires a medical diagnosis of dementia and the age criteria is 18 and older.

Our Programs 

We offer a wide range of services and resources to assist seniors in Broward County ages 60 years of age and older, and adults with disabilities age 18 and above. From meal assistance, health and wellness, to transportation services, we provide information regarding services in Broward County available for seniors.

Programs and Services Include:

• Meals and food assistance
• Health and wellness class
• Caregiver support
• Home assistance
• Legal services
• Medicare counseling/SHINE
• Senior centers
• Transportation services
• ConnectingWithU
• Alzheimer’s disease services
• Senior technology programs

Founded in 1984, the California Caregiver Resource Centers are a network of 11 centers throughout California which serve family caregivers who are providing support for someone affected by chronic and debilitating health conditions including dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, cerebrovascular diseases (such as stroke or aneurysms), degenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s, Huntington’s and multiple sclerosis, or traumatic brain injury (TBI), among many others.

Caregiver Action Network (CAN) is the nation’s leading family caregiver organization working to improve the quality of life for the more than 90 million Americans who care for loved ones with chronic conditions, disabilities, disease, or the frailties of old age. CAN serves a broad spectrum of family caregivers ranging from the parents of children with significant health needs, to the families and friends of wounded soldiers; from a young couple dealing with a diagnosis of MS, to adult children caring for parents with Alzheimer’s disease. CAN (the National Family Caregivers Association EIN 52-1780405) is a non-profit organization providing education, peer support, and resources to family caregivers across the country free of charge.

CAN’s Additional Caregiver Websites

Help for Cancer Caregivers 

Help for Cancer Caregivers provides information, education, and support to help cancer caregivers care for themselves and their family members. Born of a unique collaboration of organizations with the shared goal of improving health and well-being of the people who care for people with cancer, Help for Cancer Caregivers is as a stand-alone resource tailored to the oncology community.

Rare Disease Caregivers 

Rare Caregivers is a comprehensive online guide that addresses the distinct needs of family caregivers of loved ones with rare diseases. Rare Caregiver’s resources provide caregivers with tips on helping their loved one as well as themselves.

For more than 80 years, the Centers for Independence has strengthened communities by fostering hope and helping people advance their total health.  CFI is dedicated to assisting people of all ages and abilities achieve their fullest level of independence through a supportive environment that fosters hope. CFI’s unmatched breadth of disability support services and resources tallow others to find value in themselves and see a path forward.

Who We Serve: 

The Centers for Independence assists people of all abilities, ages, and socioeconomic standing. CFI’s vast array of services and programs are based on community needs and are offered to every client, patient, and consumer who seeks them. In many cases, CFI brings solutions to people who might not find assistance anywhere else.

What We Do: 

The Centers for Independence integrates health care and social services. CFI’s commitment to total health with a trauma-informed care approach results in a framework of wellness that improves lives, families, and communities. CFI’s programs, which are committed to helping people maintain control and choice over their care, serve people who need:

• mental health and substance-abuse treatment and care
• job-training and placement services
• rehabilitative help following a brain injury or neurological condition
• day programming and activities to fully engage in life
• in-home personal care services
• assistance managing finances and employment for long-term care needs
• medical day care services and education for children with complex medical conditions
• early education programming and therapies

Connecticut Parent Advocacy Center, Inc. (CPAC) is a statewide nonprofit organization that offers information and support to families of children with any disability or chronic illness, age birth through 26. The Center is committed to the idea that parents can be the most effective advocates for their children, given the confidence that knowledge and understanding of special education law and its procedures can bring.

Through outreach efforts and referrals from schools, social service agencies and other parents, the number of families that Connecticut Parent Advocacy Center serves has grown dramatically over the past 40 years. We continue to take pride in providing prompt and personal assistance to all who contact us. CPAC is staffed by parents of children with disabilities who have training in, and personal experience with, the law and disability issues.

In addition to speaking with parents on a daily basis, CPAC staff conduct workshops for parents as well as in-service presentations for schools, teachers-in-training and service providers throughout the state so that they may better understand and serve the parents with whom they work. Staff and Board members serve on numerous statewide committees and various organizations, representing issues that are of concern to parents and families in Connecticut.

MD Family Supports Waiver provides personal supports, respite care services, support broker services, assistive technology and services, behavioral support services, environmental assessment, environmental modifications, family and peer mentoring supports, family caregiver training and empowerment services, housing support services, individual and family directed goods and services, nurse case management and delegation services** ending March 2021**, nurse consultation**ending March 2021**, nursing support services, participant education, training and advocacy supports, transportation, and vehicle modifications for individuals with developmental disabilities ages 0 – 21 years of age.

Link to application(s) and supporting documents: https://www.medicaid.gov/medicaid/section-1115-demo/demonstration-and-waiver-list/81996

Developmental Enrichment Centers (DEC) are a faith-based, non-profit organization licensed and contracted with Arizona Department of Economic Security, Division of Developmental Disabilities (DES/DDD). Together, our dedicated staff brings over 50 years of combined experience working on behalf of children and adults with developmental disabilities such as Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Epilepsy, and Cognitive Delay.

Funding is provided in part through our contract with the state. Additional support is offered through the generosity of individuals, local businesses, and corporate grants. DEC is recognized as an Arizona Charitable Organization serving the working poor and contributions made to DEC are eligible for the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit.

DEC is committed to meet the social, emotional, and physical needs of each individual served by DEC through both center and home-based services. Recognizing the unique abilities of our clients, both young and elderly, and the challenges they face, we anticipate an expansion of comprehensive services to include residential services, graduated levels of support for medically fragile individuals, in-house therapy, job skills training, and job placement services.

The administration and employees of DEC encourage one another to develop within themselves a core set of values. These values, known as the “fruits of the spirit,” are found in Galatians 5:22 and serve as foundational Christian life principles. Exhibition of these nine attributes is the measure we use to assess all employees.

With a desire to make a difference within the community we serve, our staff is committed to the following: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control.

For nearly 100 years, Easterseals has been the indispensable resource for people and families living with disabilities. Throughout all life’s moments – from the extraordinary to the ordinary and everything in between – Easterseals is here to help people and families realize and reach for their full potential.

Across the nation, we remove physical, cultural, attitudinal, and legal obstacles so people with disabilities have every opportunity to live meaningful and productive lives, on their own terms. We exist to provide the best services and opportunities for people with disabilities in communities nationwide.

Easterseals serves people and families who face a wide range of disabilities, including physical emotional, intellectual, social and educational.

Our mission is to enhance the lives of children, adults, and families in an environment that promotes independence, dignity, and respect.

Services: 

• Behavioral Health Services
• Early Intervention
• Early Learning Center
• Katie Beckett Program
• Personal Assistance
• Community Supported Living
• Workforce Development

First Things First is an essential leader and partner in creating a family-centered, equitable, high-quality early childhood system that supports the development, well-being, health and education of all Arizona’s children, birth to age 5.

First Things First works at the state and local levels to give Arizona children the opportunity to arrive at kindergarten healthy and ready to succeed. We invest in proven programs and innovative strategies through grants to community organizations that provide services to children and families. We provide professional expertise and oversight to support local programs and statewide initiatives, and we collaborate with other early childhood system partners to make even more impact.

Fun Van is a parenting education program for parents/caregivers and their children ages birth to 5, and is supported by First Things First in the Pinal Region. Each class meets once a week for 11 weeks and includes story time, a craft, playtime, a unique parent session, and a book to keep!

In the parent session, parents and caregivers dive into curricula from two excellent programs. The Parent Educators use the Raising A Reader program to excite children about books and better prepare them for school, and the Early Childhood STEP program to improve family relationships and communication.

Link to registration page: https://www.ajpl.org/funvan/registration/

Resources for All Ages in the state of Alabama

The Iowa Home and Community Based (HCBS) programs are Medicaid programs where the federal government has set aside or “waived” rules. This gives you more choices about how and where you receive services. It is for people with disabilities and older Iowans who need services. These services may allow you to stay in your home. You must be eligible for Medicaid and also meet the requirements of the program you are applying for and/or receiving. An assessment will be done to determine if you meet the criteria of being in need of nursing facility, skilled nursing facility level of care, hospital level of care, or being in need of care in an intermediate care facility for persons with intellectual disabilities.

Iowa currently has seven HCBS Waivers in the Waiver Program that provides service funding and individualized supports to maintain eligible members in their own homes or communities who would otherwise require care in a medical institution.

The Seven HCBS Waivers:

1. Health and Disability (HD) Waiver
2. AID/HIV (AH) Waiver
3. Elderly (E) Waiver
4. Intellectual Disability (ID) Waiver
5. Brain Injury (BI) Waiver
6. Physical Disability (PD) Waiver
7. Children’s Mental Health (CMH) Waiver

Our mission is to inspire hope through nature. We invite caregivers to experience a one of a kind approach to wellness. We provide support with both monthly caregiver check in calls, weekly suggestions, online support groups, mental health counseling and more. As our organization develops new programs and services, we invite you along every step of the way. Your well being is most important to us, as well as, your care receiver. We strive to provide you support tailored to your needs.

Founded in 1985, Idaho Parents Unlimited, Inc. (IPUL) is a statewide organization which houses the Idaho Parent Training and Information Center, the Family to Family Health Information Center, Idaho Family Voices and IPUL Arts. Idaho Parents Unlimited, Inc. envisions inclusive and accessible communities, services, education, and opportunities for children and youth with disabilities and/or unique and special healthcare needs. Idaho Parents Unlimited works with parents, family members, and caregivers of children and youth with disabilities and special health care needs and the professionals who are a part of their lives. While our office is in Boise, we work statewide using technology, and we frequently travel to all regions of the state throughout the year. We assist families who have children of any diagnosis from birth to age 26.

What we do:

• Provide individual assistance to families through calls, emails, and in-person meetings
• Provide options that you may have to resolve any individual issues
• Present monthly training workshops and webinars on a variety of topics
• Provide special request workshops at community events and/or conferences as well as for parent or professional groups
• Advocate for systems, programs, policies, and rules that have an impact on Idaho families
• Provide effective advocacy training and information for families and youth to best advocate for themselves.
• Provide Parent Leadership Development training annually to build on a growing list of parent mentors who can amplify our work across the state.
• Provide scholarships to parents to attend conferences or events related to your child’s disability.
• Provide arts education through our in-school/community center residencies and Work of Art Programs
• Listen and provide support

What we do NOT do:

• Advocate on behalf of an individual child or family
• Attend IEP meetings
• Tell you what you should do
• Provide legal assistance
• Endorse or promote specialty care providers, legal services, or schools/districts
• Provide general parenting training (ie: court ordered classes)
• Provide 24-hour crisis services (we are not a crisis agency)
• Provide routinely scheduled art classes

At Jewish Family & Career Services, we are guided by our Jewish values to ensure all in Greater Louisville live with dignity and purpose. Since 1908, we have served individuals and families of all faiths and backgrounds with a client-centered and compassionate approach.

We take our mission to expand possibilities for each person and every family to meet life’s challenges with confidence seriously at JFCS. Our dedicated professional staff provide services in the areas of Career Services, Counseling Services, Family Strengthening, Jewish Life, Klein Older Adult Services, and JFCS Navigate.

Family Stability Services

• Career Coaching & Counseling
• Emergency Assistance
• Financial Literacy & Coaching
• Individual, Couple & Family Counseling
• The Sonny & Janet Meyer Food Pantry
• Workshops

Klein Older Adults Services

• Care Coordination
• Counseling
• Family Caregiver Support
• Grandparents Raising Children
• Long-Term Care Planning
• PALS Transportation Service
• Senior Concierge Homecare
• Support Groups

Clinical Services 

• Individual, Couple, and Family Counseling
• Parent Coaching
• Personal Coaching
• Psychiatric Medication Assessment & Management
• Support Groups

Career & Economic Opportunity Services 

• Assessment & Exploration
• Counseling & Coaching
• Pre-Employment Transition Services
• Re-credentialing & Career Laddering
• Resource Coordination
• Vocational Evaluation
• Workshops
• Business Marketing Assistance
• Business Training & Consulting
• Education & Credit Building
• Microlending for Underserved Entrepreneurs

Kentuckiana Regional Planning and Development Agency (KIPDA) provides regional planning, review and technical services in the areas of public administration, social services and transportation as well as community ridesharing programs. KIPDA also coordinates services for persons 60 years of age and over. KIPDA is designated by the Kentucky State Clearinghouse as the regional review agency for virtually all applications for federal and/or state funds made by organizations or governments within the state of Kentucky.

Social Services

KIPDA Social Service’s overarching goal is to support community members to remain and thrive within their communities. With this goal, KIPDA partners with community providers to implement programs to support members in their homes. These services include; Senior Nutrition (Meals on Wheels), Caregiver Services, Grandparents Raising Grandchildren, Senior Centers, Health Promotion activities, In-home services, State Health Insurance Assistance, and Medicaid Services. In addition, KIPDA provides community planning services as they relate to aging in place.

Community and Economic Development

KIPDA maintains a Community and Economic Development (CED) Division that provides technical assistance to governmental members of the seven Kentucky Counties.

Transportation 

KIPDA serves as the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) for the Louisville/Jefferson County KY-IN urbanized area and is also responsible for the Regional Transportation Council (RTC). The MPO consists of Jefferson, Bullitt, and Oldham counties in Kentucky, and Clark and Floyd Counties in Indiana. Our Regional Transportation Council consists of Shelby, Spencer, Henry, and Trimble counties in Kentucky.

The Bluegrass Area Agency on Aging and Independent Living (BGAAAIL) promotes and provides for the development of community based systems of care which include: planning, access and delivery of services, coordination of activities and programs, and advocacy on behalf of and education for older persons, disabled individuals and caregivers in the communities of the Bluegrass region. Our vision is to maintain or improve quality of life and enable older persons, disabled individuals and caregivers to thrive in their chosen environment with mutual respect, dignity, and self-determination.

The BGAAAIL supports programs and services to individuals in Anderson, Bourbon, Boyle, Clark, Estill, Fayette, Franklin, Garrard, Harrison, Jessamine, Lincoln, Madison, Mercer, Nicholas, Powell, Scott, and Woodford Counties.

Programs 

• Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC)
• Caregiver Support Programs
• Health Promotion Program
• Medicaid Waiver Programs
• Homecare Program
• Nursing Home Ombudsman
• Senior Centers
• The Kentucky State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)

The Lily’s Hope Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that supports babies, children, and their families with unexpected and urgent needs due to premature birth. We support our NICU families by providing them with essential items since they have been unable to prepare for their child’s early arrival. Our Lily’s Hope Families that are in the middle of this medical crisis are referred to us by hospital case workers, hospital staff, and word of mouth. We work with each individual family to answer their specific needs by way of our Packages of Hope. Our Packages of Hope include items that can often be expensive and difficult to find. Examples of the care package contents are micro-preemie/preemie clothing, preemie diapers, car seats or car seat beds, bassinets, gift cards for use toward transportation to the NICU, and much more.

To request support: https://www.lilyshopefoundation.org/packageofhope

Founded more than 130 years ago, Lunalilo Home’s vision is to be a nurturing and vibrant kauhale for all kūpuna. In fulfillment of the trust of King William Charles Lunalilo, the sixth reigning monarch of Hawai’i, our mission is to perpetuate the legacy of King William Charles Lunalilo to honor, tend to, and protect the well-being of elders. We strive to provide loving and compassionate services for kūpuna that preserve dignity and independence in a comfortable, secure and supportive environment. Services include residential care, respite care, adult day care, and meals-to-go.

Lunalilo Home admits persons of Hawaiian and non-Hawaiian ancestry, while maintaining its commitment to subsidize Native Hawaiians who are unable to pay for their residence at its adult Residential Care home, to the extent allowed by available funds or financing.

Lunalilo Home is a private organization that is not funded by any state or federal programs. We do not directly bill Medicare or Medicaid for any of the services we provide; however, our residents may utilize Medicare and Medicaid as well as other health insurance for their medical needs.

The National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) Rare Caregiver Respite Program is designed for caregivers (parent, spouse, family member, or significant other) of a child or adult diagnosed with a rare disorder. The program provides financial assistance to enable the caregiver a break from caregiving. Financial assistance will be granted up to $500 annually for those who qualify. Awards may be spread throughout the year or in a single use. Awards are granted on a first come, first served basis to eligible individuals. 

Who is eligible?

• The caregiver must be a US citizen or permanent resident of the United States for at least 6 months with evidence of residency
• The applicant must be willing to undergo a financial evaluation of need and fall within the Program’s financial eligibility guidelines
• The patient for whom care is being provided must have a confirmed rare disease diagnosis

The Northern Regional Center for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs (CYSHCN) is a resource for families with children (0-22) who have any type of disability or need help finding a diagnosis.

We also offer parent support with loans from our resource library, scholarships to training and conferences, peer support from staff with lived experiences, and referrals to our statewide Parent-to-Parent support network. The Northern Regional Center office is located in Wausau, Wisconsin and supports 15 counties and 6 tribes. Staff are available to help problem-solve, provide information or make referrals to community, state, and national resources. We regularly travel in the area so can drop off resources, meet for coffee, or host a training in your home community.

Educational support can be found at this link: https://northernregionalcenter.org/information-resources/your-childs-education/

Medical Providers/Physicians can make direct referrals using this form available in English and Spanish: www.dhs.wisconsin.gov/forms/f0/f01238.pdf

Early Intervention (EI) is a statewide system that provides coordinated early intervention services to parents of eligible children under the age of three with developmental delays or disabilities. EI is grounded in the philosophy that young children learn best from familiar people in familiar settings. Every family served in EI will have a local EI team that consists of a service coordinator, service providers, and your family. Your team works with you in your home or other places you and your family spend time to develop a coordinated plan called an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). You and your team will work through your IFSP plan to use your existing supports and resources—and build upon them—to learn to enhance your child’s learning and development.

All children are unique and develop at their own pace, but there are general milestones that are helpful to understanding your child’s development.

Click here to access free developmental and monitoring screening tools

Ohio EI is a part of the Help Me Grow program, which provides home visits for prevention and education as well as early intervention services for children that qualify. Making a referral to Help Me Grow is the first and easy step for parents who have questions or concerns about their infant or child. One referral to Help Me Grow opens the door to many programs that support families including Early Intervention, Home Visiting, Moms and Babies First, and the WIC Program.

Click Here to Make a Referral to Help Me Grow

The Oklahoma Family Network (OFN) informs and connects individuals with special health care needs and disabilities, their families, and professionals to services and support in their communities.

Our services are designed for the family of any child who has:

• spent time in the NICU or was born premature
• physical disabilities
• cancer
• rare or undiagnosed conditions
• Autism
• Cerebral Palsy
• Cystic Fibrosis
• Down Syndrome
• mental health diagnoses
• behavioral health concerns

Parent to Parent of New York State, which began in 1994, is a statewide not for profit organization established to support and connect families of individuals with special needs. We have several offices located throughout New York State staffed by Regional Coordinators who are parents or close relatives of individuals with special needs.

Parent to Parent of NYS is where families of individuals with special needs and the professionals who serve them can meet and share information.

We are on the same journey and are here to help other families:

• Support – We offer parents/caregivers the opportunity to connect one-to-one with a parent/caregiver of an individual with the same or similar disability or special health care need – someone who has “been there.”
• Information & Referral – We help families and professionals locate the information and services they need
• Training – Workshops are available on various topics to both family and professional audiences

At Parent to Parent PA we are always striving to expand our reach to families who have a child or adult with a disability or special need. In those efforts, we have helped to create and administer the following support programs: Early Intervention Infant Toddler and Early Intervention Preschool Direct Referral programs (EI Direct Referrals); Pediatric Therapy Professionals “Family Connection” program (PTP); Neonatal Intensive Care Parent Support programs (NICU’s); Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP- Trisomy 21 Parent Peer program and Pulmonary Hypoplasia program) and the Family Connections for Language and Learning program.

Parent to Parent helps parents find a one-to-one connection with another parent, who know firsthand about the feelings and realities that come with having a child with special needs.

Having a child with special health care needs sets parents on a different journey than the one that was originally expected. Fortunately, many parents have “gone before” and can be a source of strength, hope, direction, and help. Through a one-on-one match, you will connect with another parent who has experienced a journey similar to yours. A match provides emotional support and information to families of individuals with disabilities or other special needs. Like each family, every match is unique.

A parent match can be based upon:

• Diagnosis
• Upcoming surgery or treatment
• Upcoming transition or change

According to the research:

• Parent to Parent support increases parents’ sense of being able to cope.
• Parent to Parent support increases parents’ acceptance of their situation.
• Parent to Parent helps parents make progress on the need they present when they first contact a Parent to Parent program.
• Over 80% of parents find Parent to Parent support to be helpful.

Process for receiving a one-to-one match:

1. It’s free and easy to join.
2. Complete the form to receive a match.
3. A Parent to Parent staff member will reach out to gather further information. This information allows for the best, personalized match.
4. Once a match is made, You will receive a call from a support parent within a few days.

Our mission is to empower families as advocates and partners in improving education and health outcomes for children with disabilities and special healthcare needs with a commitment to diversity and equity.

One-on-One Support

PPMD offers families individualized support from someone who knows what it means to have a child with a disability or a special healthcare need. Our team has firsthand knowledge of the special education and healthcare process.  Please contact us with questions to receive support as it relates to your specific family needs.

Training

PPMD offers a variety of interactive trainings for parents and professionals. The trainings provide a combination of information and resources through the use of hands-on activities. PPMD facilitates training opportunities that allow parents and professionals to connect with others with similar experiences.

Referrals

PPMD is here to help. If you are unable to locate resources or information on our website, please contact us for further assistance or a referral to the receive support specific to the needs of your child.

Information

PPMD offers information and resources to support families of children with disabilities and special healthcare needs. Please contact us for information specific to your child needs.

Our mission is to connect and empower families, children, and youth living with disabilities or special healthcare needs through support, education, and advocacy.

PATH Offers many programs and services to families of children with special needs: 

• One-to-one, personal support, and information by phone with our health information specialists and parent support staff.
• Support and information to moms-to-be on bed-rest, parents of premature babies, and parents of babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
• Support, outreach, and resources to families in need of genetic information.
• Support and information on specific disabilities, including but not limited to Autism, Down syndrome, Cystic Fibrosis, Sickle Cell, Deaf/Hard of Hearing, ADHD, and learning disabilities, to help families better understand their child’s healthcare and overall needs.
• Help understanding how to navigate the healthcare system, including applying for insurance and finding medical specialists/providers in your area.
• Information and assistance applying for programs and services that may be available to children with special needs and their families in the state of Connecticut, including Birth to 3, DDS, SSI, Section 8 housing.
• Help learning how to advocate for your child with special needs, both in a medical and educational settings.
• Help understanding your child’s educational evaluations and Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and 504 plans.
• Trainings and webinars to help parents become their child’s best advocate.
• Trainings for both parents and professionals on cultural and linguistic competency.
• Educational support and advocacy. PATH is often able to assist families with educational support in the school setting, attending PPT/IEP and 504 meetings. Our goal is to help parents become better advocates for their children. We ask that parents who use this educational advocacy support participate in at least two parenting trainings with our organization. In the event that we are unable to provide educational advocacy services, parents will be provided with a list of special education attorneys in the state of Connecticut.

The Pennsylvania Caregiver Support Program provides resources and assistance to individuals who assume the primary responsibility for the provision of care to encourage a healthy, ongoing relationship with their care receiver. The program aims to alleviate the stresses associated with caregiving by focusing on the well-being of the caregiver, providing access to respite care, addressing the need for formal and informal supports, and providing financial reimbursement for out-of-pocket costs associated with caregiving-related services and supplies.

Services available through the Caregiver Support Program include:

• Care Management
• Benefits Counseling
• Caregiver Education and Training
• Reimbursement for ongoing expenses for caregiving-related services or supplies, such as respite care, consumable supplies, supportive services, supplemental services, home modifications, assistive devices, and services specific to grandparents/older relative caregivers (55+).

For more information on or how to apply for the Caregiver Support Program use the Area Agency on Aging Locator to find the AAA serving your local county.

Since 1982,  Westchester Jewish Community Services (WJCS) has provided in-home respite services to Westchester families caring for either a dependent older person or a child with an intellectual or developmental disability. Known as Project Time-Out, respite services allow caregivers the opportunity to attend to medical, social, recreational, or business matters while providing stimulating companionship, supervision and socialization to the client.

Program coordinators offer free assessments of a family’s respite needs and information regarding the range of WJCS services, as well as programs throughout Westchester County that enrich the lives of senior citizens. Carefully screened, experienced and trained consultants are matched with families to offer relief from care-giving responsibilities on a flexible basis. The cost for families requesting an in-home companion and who are caring for an older dependent adult is based on the Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services EISEP sliding scale, determined by the income and expenses of the older adult or married couple. Respite services also may be arranged privately.

Project Time-Out also offers caregivers of older adults an Escort Program that enables caregivers to enlist an escort to accompany their loved ones 60 years or older to a doctor visit, shopping trip, errand, movie or restaurant. Escorts do not drive. The Escort Program is funded by the Westchester County Department of Senior Programs and Services and the escort service is free. Users are responsible for transportation costs only for their relative and the escort if they travel by taxi or bus. If ParaTransit is used, the escort usually rides for free.

Families caring for children with developmental disabilities and their siblings are eligible for partial reimbursement available through the Hudson Valley Developmental Disabilities Service Office. Respite services also may be arranged privately.

Raising Special Kids exists to improve the lives of children with the full range of disabilities, from birth to age 26, by providing support, training, information and individual assistance so families can become effective advocates for their children.

Raising Special Kids began in 1979 as a grass-roots effort of families, professionals, and community leaders determined to provide support and information for parents of children with disabilities and special health care needs. Today, Raising Special Kids serves as Arizona’s Family-to-Family Health Information Center, and as Arizona’s Parent Training and Information Center. Helping parents access information about health care, community resources, and support services so they can make informed decisions regarding their children’s care has been our mission from the beginning. We support thousands of Arizona families each year through our programs and services.

Respite Care Association of Wisconsin (RCAW) is a non-profit group contracted by the State of Wisconsin to coordinate respite care services across local and state levels. Family members or primary caregivers can search for respite care workers to care for their loved ones through their registry. They also provide Respite Care Provider Training (RCPT) for those who wish to register as respite care professionals.

Respite Care Registry: https://respitecarewi.org/registry/

RIPIN is a 501(c)(3), charitable, nonprofit organization established in 1991 by a passionate group of parents of children with special needs. These parents recognized that together they could provide support through sharing essential information and helping to find the resources they needed for their loved ones. This peer model continues to be at the heart of our work and has lead RIPIN’s network to expand statewide. Today we have over 100 employees, most of whom have personal experience caring for a loved one with special health care or educational needs.

The RIPIN Call Center offers free support to any Rhode Islander who needs help accessing healthcare, health insurance, or special education for children with disabilities.

RIPIN helps any Rhode Islander, from infants to seniors.
We can help you navigate:

Sooner SUCCESS works intimately with both the public and private sectors with the overarching goal to promote a comprehensive, coordinated system of health, social and educational services for Oklahoma children and youth with special healthcare needs in their local community.

Sooner SUCCESS Coordinators assist families by: 

• Discussing available resources that fit the family’s unique situation.
• Providing a county-specific resource guide of available services and supports.
• Supporting families as they complete complex application forms for services or prepare for meetings with service providers.
• Helping them locate specialty services – medical, counseling, speech and hearing, vision, nutrition, etc.
• Helping them learn more about their child’s needs and condition by providing printed information or links to trustworthy websites.
• Providing materials and guidance to families as they create their own Care Notebook to organize health/education information for their child.
• Providing emotional support during times of stress as well as recommendations for long-term peer support groups and networks.
• Providing contact and eligibility information for critical support programs such as the Respite Voucher System, Medicaid, Sooner Start, TEFRA, and the Family Support Assistance Program.
• Developing and organizing community projects to benefit children with special needs.  Past projects have included mobile dental clinics, home/school renovations, social/recreation events, information fairs, and health screening events.
• Organizing local and regional training workshops for parents on special needs topics.

Southwest Human Development strengthens the foundation Arizona’s children need for a great start in life.

The first five years of life are the most critical in a child’s development. At Southwest Human Development, our services improve lives and help families by supporting young children and their caregivers during this important time.

In partnership with families, we provide children with the care, attention and support needed to set them on a path to success in school and life, and help them reach their fullest capabilities.

We are Arizona’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to early childhood development and our 900 staff members provide 40 programs and services to 140,000 children, families and professionals each year

SPAN provides individuals assistance, training, and support for families, youth, and professionals on early childhood, education, health and mental health, human services, disability, transition to adult life, and family-professional partnerships, focusing on families with children and youth at greatest risk due to disability, specialist healthcare needs, race ethnicity, immigrant status, language, socio-economic status, geographic location, etc. SPAN also provides community doula support and advocacy for pregnant African-American and black women to reduce disparities in Black maternal and infant health.

Special Friends, Inc. was organized to promote the general welfare of all people with emotional, physical, and developmental disabilities in Chippewa County. We are a volunteer (no paid staff) agency. We welcome members who are parents, professionals, neighbors, and friends of people who need our help to improve the quality of their lives in our community. We welcome the interest, ideas and support of all those who share this goal and know that by working together we will succeed.

There are socialization programs, a newsletter, sunshine program, toy lending program, workshops, recreational opportunities including Special Olympics and parent to parent support.

Supporting You provides individuals the opportunity to gain support from a peer who has experienced a similar situation and/or circumstance in life who can share ideas, resources, and provide a listening ear during a time of need.

Developed in partnership with the Bureau of Family Health Family Advisory Council, our goal is for Kansans to gain support from a caring and compassionate peer who shares a connection and is willing to tell their own personal story, while they walk alongside someone else as they tell theirs.

At the present time, there are two participating programs with Support You:

1. Kansas Special Health Care Needs program: Families of children with special health care needs. Primarily focused on those with medically complex conditions or physical disability.
2. Kansas School for the Deaf: Families of children with hearing loss.

The Tennessee Disability Coalition is an alliance of organizations and individuals joined to promote the full and equal participation of people with disabilities in all aspects of life.

To support this mission, the Coalition offers the following programs:

• Public Policy Program
• Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Program
• Family Voices of Tennessee
• WorkAbleTN
• Brain Links
• Discretionary Small Grants Program

In 1992, at the urging of disability advocates and families, The Tennessee legislature established the Family Support Program. The program is funded by state dollars and designed to assist individuals with severe disabilities and their families to remain together in their homes and communities. Family Support is not a substitute for more comprehensive services provided under other programs, including the Medicaid HCBS Waiver, TennCare, Medicare, or private insurance.

The primary purpose of the program is to support:

• Families who have school-aged or younger children with severe disabilities
• Adults with severe disabilities who choose to live with their families
• Adults with severe disabilities not supported by other residential programs funded by state or federal funds

Services can include but are not limited to: Respite care, day care services, home modifications, equipment, supplies, personal assistance, transportation, homemaker services, housing costs, health-related needs, nursing and counseling.

Services are flexible and responsive to families and their needs. An essential element of the Family Support Program is family and consumer involvement. Local and District Councils have been established and meet on a regular basis to oversee and provide advice on the distribution of local services.

Texas Parent to Parent provides support, information, and education for families of children and adults with disabilities, chronic and mental health conditions, and other health care needs.

The Alaska Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias Mini-Grants (ADRD Mini Grants) Program offers financial assistance for services and items for people with Alzheimer’s disease or related dementias. This program is intended to improve their quality of life and to increase independent living through maintaining healthy and productive lifestyles.

ADRD Mini Grants are funded through the Alaska Mental Health Trust Authority and administered by the Alzheimer’s Resource of Alaska. Grants are available for up to $2,500 per funding year.

In order to qualify financially, the applicant must demonstrate the items requested cannot be acquired through other funding sources such as the candidate’s personal assets, insurance, or other financial assistance programs.

The grants must provide individuals diagnosed with ADRD essential items which will directly improve their quality of life and increase their independent functioning.

Uses can include: 

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Hearing services
• Supplies
• Therapeutic devices
• Adaptive equipment
• Caregiver respite
• Accessibility improvements or supplies
• Services not available from any other funding source

A person may apply for a mini grant as: 

• A beneficiary (person affected by the disorder)
• Or as an applicant (a family member, care coordinator or guardian filling out the form on behalf of the beneficiary)

How to apply: 

1. Submit a completed mini grant application
2. Attach a written estimate from the vendor for the cost of the item(s) or service(s) to request for the beneficiary

The Arc Maryland is the largest statewide nonprofit organization dedicated to the rights and quality of life of persons with I/DD and their families. We do this through public policy, advocacy, public awareness, and training and membership support.

We are a membership-based organization of 8,000 members. With our ten local chapters serving 19 counties and Baltimore City, we encompass all ages and more than 100 different diagnoses including intellectual disabilities, autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, fetal alcohol syndrome, Fragile X syndrome, and other developmental disabilities. Our local network of chapters provides a wide range of human services and other supports to people with I/DD and their family members, including individual and public policy advocacy, residential, educational, and vocational services, employment, family supports and early intervention that promote people with I/DD to participate and be included in their communities.

Since 1952, the Council has empowered Kentuckians with IDD (Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities) and their families to live their best life- full of love, support, and resources.

Education 

We empower people with IDD and their families by connecting them to all the resources they have at their disposal. We offer webinars, presentation series and training opportunities to help our families navigate life with knowledge and ease.

Advocacy 

Part of life with IDD means we must advocate for equal rights and access to care. At our core, we are an advocacy organization- we believe people with IDD should be seen, heard, and given equal opportunities as the neurotypical population.

Support 

Knowing that others have walked the same path makes all the difference. Here at the Council, that’s what we do- we share our experiences, resources, and share our support. We offer one-on-one counseling or support groups that meet regularly.

Lee Zimmerman, CEO and Founder of The Kidz Club, recognized the need for children with medical complexities to have access to daily nursing care, therapies, and friends – all in an enriching environment. His goal to positively impact the whole family unit through the care of these special children led to the establishment of The Kidz Club, the first Prescribed Pediatric Extended Care facility in Kentucky.

The Kidz Club was founded out of compassion and a commitment to improve, empower, and enrich the lives of children with medical complexities as well as their families.

Children with disabilities have the right to be given opportunities that allow them to live to their fullest potential. Too often, parents raising these children feel isolated socially and burdened financially, emotionally and physically. They are forced to make hard decisions and sacrifice substantially in areas that most could not imagine. The Lollipop Kids Foundation exists to combat social stigmas, ease the financial burden placed on these families, offer emotional support and provide a brief respite so that every child with a disability has access to a hope and a future.

Programs and services include:

• Durable Medical Equipment (DME) closet
• Kyle Morgan Summer Accessible Sailing
• Sensory Friendly Haircuts
• LolliFIT
• Support & Play Groups

The Oley Foundation is a national, independent, non-profit 501(c)(3) organization that strives to enrich the lives of those living with home intravenous nutrition and tube feeding through education, advocacy, and networking. The Foundation also serves as a resource for consumer’s families, clinicians and industry representatives, and other interested parties. Programs are directed by the staff and guidance is provided by a board of dedicated professionals and patients.

The Equipment/Supply Exchange Program 

• The goal is to connect families in need of enteral formula, tubing, and other supplies with families who have items to donate. There is no guarantee that any one product will be available at a specific time.
• Our focus is on supplies and equipment related to home tube feeding and IV nutrition. Typical items include: enteral formula, feeding bags, tubing, IV poles, syringes, rand related supplies.
• The person requesting supplies must pay for shipping prior to any products being shipped from the donor; but this should be the only cost associated with the products.

Our mission is to improve lives by uniting the caring power of community. United Way of Central Iowa focuses on three counties in Iowa: Polk, Dallas, and Warren. Our funding, strategies, collaborations, and partnerships are almost exclusively based within that territory. We are an independent 501(c)3 organization based in Des Moines, Iowa, and regulated by our local Board of Directors. As a member of the United Way network, our organization is one of more than 1,000 local United Ways across the United States.

Since 1917, United Way of Central Iowa has united individuals, businesses, nonprofits, elected officials, and more to foster a thriving community through strategic focus on the 5 Elements of a Thriving Community:

• Essential Needs
• Early Childhood Success
• Education Success
• Economic Opportunity
• Health & Well-Being

Since 1989 the USC Family Caregiver Support Center (FCSC) at USC Davis School (home of the LA Caregiver Resource Center) has placed a high priority on providing support across the continuum of caregiving, including diagnosis, prognosis, services that help maintain the care recipient’s independence and abilities, helping caregivers care for themselves, and manage their own well-being. Supportive services include information, assessment, individual consultations, respite, education, and training. Our mission is to help families and communities master the challenges of caring for older adults with brain impairing conditions and/or adults with multiple health concerns.

We offer help to caring family and friends for all cultures and communities in LA county. We are funded in part by LA Community and Senior Services and the USC Davis School of Gerontology. Services are low or no-cost to family caregivers and friends who help someone over the age of 60 who may have the following conditions:

• Multiple medical problems
• Memory problems
• Alzheimer’s Disease
• Stroke
• Parkinson’s Disease
• Early stage Dementia
• Mild cognitive impairments
• Lewy Body Dementia
• Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

Respite Camp is a safe and nurturing place where campers are provided with the care and support they need while their parents and caregivers can take a break from the day-to-day caregiving role they find themselves in.

Operating year-round, the Wisconsin Elks/Easterseals Respite Camp is unique. Not only are we one of the only programs in Wisconsin that provides overnight, individualized respite care, but we also accept campers with severe and multiple disabilities who have been turned down by many other programs. Our focus is on our campers. We want to provide them with a similar camp experience their peers are able to have, while providing a respite to their families and caregivers.

Register here: https://camp.eastersealswisconsin.com/camp-registrations/

Wisconsin Family Ties (WFT) is the only statewide, parent-run organization in Wisconsin working with families that include children with social, emotional or behavioral challenges. We walk beside families to provide emotional support while helping to navigate the complex service and treatment systems with which they are involved .

Located in every county and tribe in the state, Wisconsin’s Family Caregiver Support Programs provide information and assistance to help people better care for their loved ones – and themselves. Whether arranging for services (e.g., respite care, transportation, etc.) or helping families understand their options for care, Family Caregiver Support Programs give caregivers access to the information and services that can help them in the often rewarding – sometimes challenging – role of caregiver.

Wisconsin’s Family Caregiver Support Programs provide help to family members and friends who care for:

* a person age 60 and over; or
* a person with Alzheimer’s disease or a related disorder regardless of age.

Programs also assist grandparents or relative caregivers 55 years of age and older who:

* care for children under age 19, or
* care for a relative with a disability who is 19 to 59 years of age

Find assistance closest to you here: https://wisconsincaregiver.org/local-resources

Yachad, which means “togetherness”, is made up of individuals with developmental disabilities. The group meets several times a month for a variety of spiritual, social and creative events. Support for members and families extend beyond the social network. Yachad members are eligible for respite services (when grant dollars are available) and assistance with Medicaid/Medicare and social service related issues. The goal of our members, families, staff and volunteers is to engage in activities that will nourish a valued quality of life. We share a destiny and strive to help every Yachad member obtain personal and individualized goals.

Any member of the Jewish Community with a developmental disability is welcome to attend. At the current time we are taking members over the age of 21 into our adult group.